Japanese Spitz

Size: Small
Other Names: Nihon Supittsu
Country of Origin: Japan
Accreditation:
American Kennel Club (AKC): FSS
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): Non-Sporting
United Kennel Club (UKC): Northern Breed
Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC): Non-Sporting
The Kennel Club (KC): Utility
Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA): Utility
New Zealand Kennel Club (NZKC): Non-Sporting

Height:

32-38 inches

Weight:

11-22 pounds

Color(s):

White

Coat:

Double coat; long, straight hair outer coat; short, soft, dense fur undercoat

Description:

The Japanese Spitz is thought to have been bred from the White German Spitz in the late 19th century in Japan.  The Japanese Spitz is similar to the American Eskimo Dog, Samoyed, and German Spitz in size, overall appearance, and temperament.

Temperament:

The Japanese Spitz is elegant, spirited, dignified, intelligent, cheerful, playful, alert, obedient, and quiet.  He thrives on human companionship and attention, quickly becoming a member of the family.  He is affectionate, loyal, and protective of his owners.  He is excellent with children, and has patience with toddlers.  He gets along well with other dogs and animals.  Most Japanese Spitz make good watchdogs, as they are always alert, and will announce the presence of intruders with loud and forceful barking.  They may also bark at new people until they get to know them.  While Japanese Spitz enjoy being outdoors, and require human companionship while in the outdoors.

Training:

Due to his intelligence, the Japanese Spitz will learn quickly when provided with consistent training.  Positive reinforcement, using treats and praise, will bring out his eagerness to learn and his willingness to please.  Harsh handling and strong verbal discipline are unnecessary, and may be counterproductive, as they will most likely be met with resistance.  Training should commence at a young age to provide mental stimulation.  An adequately socialized Japanese Spitz puppy will mature into a friendly, confident, well-mannered adult.  Socialization at a very early age can introduce the puppy to various people, places, noises, situations, and other animals.

Care & Grooming:

Daily long walks are essential for the general physical and mental health of the Japanese Spitz.  He will also enjoy playing games that interact with his owner, such as ball games and throwing frisbees.  The Japanese Spitz’ is a fairly low-maintenance breed.  His coat should be groomed twice a week, using a pin brush that reaches to the undercoat which prevents the formation of knots.  The dryness of his coat makes it virtually odor-free, and he requires a bath only every couple of months.  Due to the texture of his coat, mud and dirt fall off, or can be brushed out, very easily.

Shedding:

Seasonal; the white stand-off coat blows a heavy undercoat.

Health:

Japanese Spitz are generally healthy.  Patellar luxation and tear staining can occur; regular brushing during sheds keeps the coat from matting.

Lifespan:

12–14 years

Litter Size:

3–4 puppies