Japanese Spitz
Quick Summary
Intelligent, adaptable companion ideal for families and first-time owners. Key traits include loyalty and friendliness. Best suited for owners who can provide regular exercise and grooming.
Contents
Weight Range
10-25 lbs
♂ Male: 10-25 lbs
♀ Female: 10-25 lbs
Height Range
30-38 inches
♂ Male: 12-15"
♀ Female: 12-15"
Life Expectancy
12-14 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #76
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Foundation Stock Service
Originally bred for Developed in Japan during the 1920s and 1930s by breeding various spitz-type dogs
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 12"-15" |
| Female Height | 12"-15" |
| Male Weight | 10-25 lbs |
| Female Weight | 10-25 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($800-$1500), supplies, and vaccinations. Monthly expenses cover food, grooming supplies, and preventive care. Annual veterinary costs average $500-800 for routine care.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Friendly and intelligent disposition makes them excellent family companions. Moderate energy levels balanced with good-natured temperament. Social and adaptable, they form strong bonds with family while maintaining a pleasant demeanor with visitors.
Social Needs
Highly social breed requiring regular family interaction and companionship. Gets along well with other dogs and pets. Can handle short periods alone but thrives on human company and engagement.
Breed Overview
Japanese Spitz dogs showcase a striking pure white double coat with a distinctive ruff around the neck and shoulders. Their pointed ears, dark almond-shaped eyes, and curled tail create an alert, fox-like expression. Medium-sized and well-proportioned, these elegant companions combine grace with sturdiness, displaying remarkable agility and poise in movement.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent family companion
- ✓ Adaptable to various living situations
- ✓ Low maintenance health needs
- ✓ Good with children
Cons
- ✗ Regular grooming required
- ✗ Can be vocal
- ✗ Moderate shedding
- ✗ May be reserved with strangers
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Loyal, Playful, Smart |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Easy Training |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Occasional |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Japanese Spitz requires 45-60 minutes of daily exercise, combining walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation activities. Moderate intensity level suits their energy, with interactive games and short training sessions throughout the day.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 1-2 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention to portion control prevents obesity. Consider supplements for coat health and joint support based on age and activity level.
Feed 1-2 cups of premium dry dog food daily, divided into two meals. Adjust portions based on age, weight, and activity level. Include omega fatty acids for coat health. Monitor calorie intake to prevent weight gain.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adaptable to apartment living with sufficient exercise. Thrives in homes with secure yards. Tolerates various climates but needs indoor access and cooling in hot weather.
Adapts well to various living situations, from apartments to houses. Minimum space requirements are modest, but access to secure outdoor areas is beneficial. Shows good adaptability to different environments.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Bred in Japan through selective breeding of various spitz-type dogs, including white German Spitz varieties. The breed was developed to create an ideal companion dog combining beauty with a manageable size and friendly temperament.
Historical Purpose
Developed in Japan during the 1920s and 1930s by breeding various spitz-type dogs. Valued as companion dogs and show dogs, particularly admired for their striking appearance.
Fun Fact
Despite their fluffy white coat, Japanese Spitz are surprisingly low-maintenance and self-cleaning!
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular brushing needed for coat maintenance. Moderate exercise requirements must be met daily. Watch for common health issues like patellar luxation.