History
The Japanese Spitz has been recognized as a breed for more than 40 years however until 1985 it remained unknown by most people and is still considered one of the rarer breeds.
A strong personality lacking in submissive-ness, Japanese Spitz are naturally inclined to assume the role of a true protagonist in the family right from puppyhood.
Its behavior towards humans reflects a sense of mutual friendship rather than instinctive submission.
Description
Very handsome appearance with its Pure White self-cleaning Double Coat and Black Features like that of a small-sized snow white arctic dog make the Japanese Spitz rather stunning to look at. Standing 11 ¾ -14 ½ inches at the shoulder and weighing in at 7-10kg, these dogs are small with a medium sized appearance.
Grooming and Physical Needs
- Grooming Needs: Medium Grooming requirements – 10 min brush twice a week and a bath every 2 months. (NEVER SHAVE THIS BREED!!!!)
- Coat Type: Males Drop their coat once a year, Females drop every 9months. Sheading is heavy for 3 weeks when changing coat, and light the rest of the year.
- Moulting: A very adaptable breed to your lifestyle these dogs can live in apartments or on farms and will adjust their exercise patters to fit in with your own. 2-3 small waks a week up to a 5km run every day.
- Exercise Needs: A very adaptable breed to your lifestyle these dogs can live in apartments or on farms and will adjust their exercise patters to fit in with your own. 2-3 small waks a week up to a 5km run every day.
- Average Life Span:
Behaviour
- Family: As this breed is so adaptable they will fit in with most lifestyles, Single people, Couples, Children, Elderly etc.
- Temperament: Described by some as almost cat like, this breed is assertive, quick-witted and very intelligent without the neediness. They like to be with their family and will not like being stuck away from the fun, they will not normally follow your every step, proffering to find a comfy spot in the corner and watch the events. They also enjoy a good snuggle however they also require alone time near you but not within arm’s reach.
- Trainability: Very smart however can be stubborn, with confident and assertive training they make great agility and obedience dogs.
- Sociability (Other Pets): If socialized from a young age they are very social, however if sheltered they can develop behavioral issues and be very unsociable.
- Barking: Medium – will not bark for no reason but they were bred as “watch dogs” so can expect noise whenever anyone comes to your door.
Talents
They are devious creatures and will find the weakest link in the family to get treats, pats and get what they want. They are very smart and a lovely companion dog. Their self-cleaning double coat is incredible, going from covered in mud back to stark white with no dirt when dry will take your breath away.
Notes
The personality of a Japanese Spitz has a huge genetic element, always ensure you meet the parents of your puppy or obtain references from previous purchasers prior to committing to buying. If the parents are at all aggressive towards humans or other animals, stay away as no amount of training will fix these issues.
The Double coat will keep your dog warm in the winter AND cool in the summer, never shave their beautiful fur as it will never re-grow the same and it takes away their natural temperature regulation.
Once you have owned one of these stunning animals, simply no other breed will do.