| Training | |
| Sensitivity to strangers | |
| Affection for family | |
| Suitable for first-time owners | |
| Ease of grooming | |
| Energy level |
Contents
The Japanese Spitz is famous for its fluffy snow-white coat and its curled tail. It is one of the most chosen breeds of the last years.
The Japanese Spitz, also known as Nihon Supittsu in its country of origin, is a relatively new breed from Japan, officially recognized by the AKC in 1888 and the FCI in 1964.
Some theories suggest that this type of Spitz comes from the Samoyed, and it was created by specialized Japanese breeders who wanted a “bonsai” or “toy” Samoyed, but there is no evidence to support these theories. Others consider that the Japanese Spitz comes from the group of German Spitz breeds, which include the Keeshond and the Pomeranian.
Japanese Spitz: Origins
Although the Japanese Spitz has a similar aspect to the Pomeranian or the Samoyed, the origin of this cute animal is still unknown.
A general theory suggests that during 1920, a German Spitz was taken to Japan, and during that period the Japanese breeders managed to create the Japanese Spitz by crossing different types of German Spitz. It is thought that they originated in the ‘20s, so it is considered a modern breed.
The Japanese Spitz is a companion dog that gained an enormous amount of popularity due to its congeniality and beauty. Nowadays, is one of the most chosen dogs around the globe.
Japanese Spitz: Physical Characteristics
This breed has a harmonious and balanced body in all of its aspects. It is a small dog that can be 11 to 14 in (30 to 38 cm) tall, and it can weigh up to 22 lb (10 kg). Their body is small and their torso is not too long, yet they do have straight and agile limbs.
The head is medium, with straight and triangular ears facing forward. Their eyes and nose are dark, almost black, and it has a pointed muzzle.
The Japanese Spitz, undoubtedly, distinguish themselves with their wonderful, fluffy, dense and pure white coat. They have a double-coat, the outer coat is long, straight, and fluffy; the undercoat is soft and profuse. The plume tail of this adorable fluffy friend curls over their back.
The Japanese Spitzs are pure white; unlike other breeds from the group of Spitz, there are no other colors accepted for this breed.
Japanese Spitz: Temperament
The Japanese Spitz is known for its playfulness and affection; it demands attention and cuddles, and it is extremely loyal to its owner. Despite its relatively small size, this dog guards and defends its family and owner, for they develop a strong attachment to them. It can adapt to any environment and space; it is perfect for a family with small children.
This breed is extremely curious, always guarding and watching. They are smart and easy to train if done since they are puppies. They really love to play, so they may enjoy while they learn.
It is important to teach them to spend some time alone because the bond they have with their family may cause separation anxiety if the owner is absent.
This adorable dog will steal hearts with its love and loyalty, its irresistible and sweet look, and the pirouettes and clownery it does to attract the attention of everyone around.
Japanese Spitz: Health
Nowadays, there are no known hereditary diseases for this breed, this is due to the purity preserved since it was created.
When we take it for a walk or when doing exercise, you have to bear in mind the intensity because due to their small limbs, it may suffer from patella luxation. These little friends are very playful, but they get tired quickly, so do not push them to walk if they do not want to.
The hair of a Japanese Spitz requires a lot of care, it is white, so it gets dirty easily. Furthermore, their long hair may tangle if it is not regularly groomed, and it will lose its distinctive fluffiness. Remember that this breed sheds when seasons change, mostly in fall and spring, a weekly brushing is important to remove fur.
Japanese Spitz: Diet
You will not have to worry too much when feeding this little guy. Just one or two daily meals of good quality dog food will be enough.
If you choose to give it homemade food, you can pick meat, vegetables, and rise. You should always ask your veterinarian to guide you on the amount of food and the supplements that your pet needs to be happy and healthy.
Japanese Spitz: Puppies For Sale, Price, and Breeders
A Japanese Spitz puppy may cost around 800 to 1800 dollars, or 700 to 1600 English pounds. The price depends on the pedigree of the dog you want to buy.
Under this section, you can find the best-registered breeders in countries such as The United States, England, Ireland, Scotland, Canada, South Africa, India, Australia, among others, from whom you can request all the information you need to buy your new pet.
It is essential that you buy a dog from a reliable breeder so that you can be sure that your puppy has been:
- Bred for good health and temperament;
- Well-selected (this means that its parents were chosen without genetic diseases);
- Properly socialized, so that it is not too fearful or too aggressive;
- Vaccinated and well-groomed.
If you adopt a puppy, the reliable breeder will provide you with a veterinary certificate that states that the animal has been dewormed and is completely healthy.
Now that we have mentioned the most important aspects, you can go searching for your new 4-legged friend, who is certainly waiting for you.
You may be interested in reading another article related to other dog breeds such as:
- Alabai
- Dalmatian
- Newfoundland
- Irish Wolfhound
- Havanese
- English Mastiff
- Scottish Deerhound
- Vizsla
- Weimaraner
- Kai Ken
