Meet The Breeds: Japanese Spitz

The Japanese Spitz is one of the most energetic, faithful, and affectionate dog breeds. This breed is said to be very smart and well-behaved with families and children. They are small-to-medium-sized dogs, although size can vary from one country to another because of different breed standards. Japanese Spitz personality is truly amazing and captivating. They are always ready for fun, adventures, and games. Japanese Spitz likes being the center of attention and they love to stay close to their beloved family. If you are planning to get a dog for your family, you should consider getting a Japanese Spitz as they are proven to be great companions!

Even though they are small in size, Japanese Spitz is fearless, bold, and courageous. This is the main reason why this breed makes amazing watchdogs. They are mainly famous for their fluffy fur and thick white coat. They enjoy cuddle time with their humans to keep themselves warm but they also want to go and play outside as they are very active and outgoing.

Japanese Spitz History

This breed is believed to be a descendant of white German Spitz that was exported to Japan in 1920 via China and Siberia. The records mentioning the full history of the Japanese spitz had been destroyed during world war II, therefore the actual history of the Japanese Spitz is not known. According to some sources, they were bred around the early 20th century through various spitz breeds from all over the world. Others believe that they are the descendants of the Samoyed dog breed, which is also an old Japanese breed. They became famous when they got registered by the UK Kennel Club in 1977. However, due to their striking resemblance with American Eskimo dogs, the American Kennel Club does not recognize this breed as a separate breed, which is an exception.

Japanese Spitz Breed Information and Facts

Here are some fun facts about Japanese Spitz that you should know before adopting one. Did you know? Japanese Spitz trainability is quite an easy process due to their smart mind. They are known for showing a good response to positive reinforcement training. They can even stay happy in apartments because they are very adaptive. If you provide them daily exercises and a place large enough for them to play and run, this breed will turn out to be an amazing companion.

• Breed Group: Non-sporting companion Dogs
• Height: 30-38 cm (males) and 25-35 cm (females)
• Weight: 5 to 10 kg
• Temperament: loving, affectionate, caring, playful, easy-going, loyal, Intelligent
• Life Span: 10-16 years
• Coat: profuse double coat
• Color: White
• Hypoallergenic: No
• The difficulty level for first-time owners: on a scale of 1-10 paws of increasing difficulty, Japanese Spitz has secured 3/10 paws. They are one of the decent choices for first-time dog owners. They are extremely easy to train and adaptable in nature, which makes them adjust to their new home and befriend their new family very easily.

What are the types of Japanese Spitz?

There are not different types of Japanese Spitz, only one type that is available in the market which is white. They are famous for their pure-white coats which makes them unique and adorable.

Are Japanese Spitz High Maintenance?

Even though they may appear to be a high-maintenance breed, the Japanese Spitz is a low-maintenance dog. They require only basic care which includes regular brushing their teeth, regular checking of their ears and paws for any sign of infection, debris, or parasites, and ensuring regular cleaning. They do not have high grooming needs either. Their coat’s texture can repel debris and dirt so it does not require frequent grooming. But you should brush their coat twice a week at least because it is thick and brushing can help in preventing matting and knots.

Are Japanese Spitz Good Pets?

This breed is intelligent, playful, and high-spirited. Japanese Spitz are known for being happy dogs and are typically good with children and other pets. If you socialize them, they will behave very well in public especially with strangers.

Do Japanese Spitz Bark A Lot?

Their bark is quite loud compared to other dogs of their size. Moreover, the Japanese Spitz tend to bark more when it comes to the protection of their family. They are fearless, courageous, and aggressive. If they sense danger, they will bark more and louder.

Are Japanese Spitz Aggressive?

Naturally, they are not an aggressive breed. They like to love and be loved back. Japanese Spitz are friendly dogs usually, but if they are raised or trained in a harsh environment, they can develop aggressive nature. So, the aggression of Japanese Spitz highly depends on the environment they were raised in.

What are popular mixed breeds with Japanese Spitz?

Usually, Japanese Spitz are not used for creating crossbreeds. But some of the potential crossbreeds can include cross between

• Husky
• Schnauzer
• Poodle
• German Spitz

Are Japanese Spitz HDB approved?

Yes. Fortunately, Japanese Spitz are HDB approved, which is good news for the people of Singapore. They can keep them as pets in their apartments.

Are Japanese Spitz hypoallergenic?

No, they are not hypoallergenic. Japanese Spitz is considered to be a healthy breed but they are not suitable for people who are prone to allergies.

What Health Issues Do Japanese Spitz Face?

Although Japanese Spitz is known as a healthy breed, it is still prone to some health issues. The main problem that is faced by this breed is the luxating patella. In this condition, the kneecap of a dog gets displaced from its usual position. It can be painful in the long term and can also cause osteoarthritis.

Other than that, Japanese Spitz can also face runny eyes. It can lead to tearing overflow which can develop skin sores and tear-staining if not cleared regularly.

How Long Can a Japanese Spitz Be Left Alone?

Japanese Spitz are playful, caring dogs that love to be the center of attention. Don’t leave them alone for long hours as they are prone to anxiety.

Can Japanese Spitz Live In Hot Weather?

Japanese Spitz prefer to live in cold weather more than hot weather but also, they can easily adapt to any environment.

Do Japanese Spitz Like To Cuddle?

Yes, they are a very lovely breed who like to cuddle in addition to being outgoing and playful dogs.

Conclusion

After reading all the above-mentioned details about the Japanese Spitz breed, you might have a better idea of how to take care of them. If you think you can responsibly raise this breed, they will make amazing pets for sure!