Japanese Spitz vs German Wirehaired Pointer
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Japanese Spitz
Foundation Stock Service
German Wirehaired Pointer
Sporting Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Japanese Spitz 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.
German Wirehaired Pointer Overview
German Wirehaired Pointers feature a distinctive weather-resistant double coat with a wiry outer layer and dense undercoat. Their athletic build combines strength with agility, sporting a noble head, strong muzzle, and intelligent expression. Standing proudly with a muscular frame, these versatile hunters display remarkable stamina and enthusiasm in the field while maintaining an affectionate, eager-to-please demeanor at home.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Japanese Spitzs are less energetic than German Wirehaired Pointers, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Japanese Spitzs require less grooming attention compared to German Wirehaired Pointers.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Japanese Spitzs tend to be more reserved with strangers than German Wirehaired Pointers.
- Trainability: Japanese Spitzs may be slightly easier to train due to their Japanese Spitz's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Japanese Spitzs adapt better to apartment living, while German Wirehaired Pointers typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Japanese Spitz and German Wirehaired Pointer, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Japanese Spitz | German Wirehaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years | 14-16 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Foundation Stock Service | Sporting Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Japanese Spitz | German Wirehaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 12-15 inches 30-38 cm | 22-26 inches 56-66 cm |
| Weight | 10-25 lbs 5-11 kg | 50-70 lbs 23-32 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Occasional | Regularly |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Japanese Spitz | German Wirehaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Loyal, Playful, Smart | Affectionate, Eager, Enthusiastic |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Japanese Spitz | German Wirehaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Japanese Spitz Temperament
The Japanese Spitz is known for being loyal, playful, smart, making them better suited for homes without young children. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to different lifestyles, though they still need regular exercise.
German Wirehaired Pointer Temperament
The German Wirehaired Pointer is characterized by being affectionate, eager, enthusiastic, which makes them better for households without small children. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They generally welcome strangers, making them sociable companions rather than protective guardians. Their high energy requires substantial daily exercise and activities to keep them physically and mentally satisfied.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Japanese Spitz and German Wirehaired Pointer, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Japanese Spitz
Rating: 3/5
German Wirehaired Pointer
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Japanese Spitz
Rating: 3/5
German Wirehaired Pointer
Rating: 3/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Japanese Spitz
Rating: 3/5
German Wirehaired Pointer
Rating: 5/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Japanese Spitz
Rating: 2/5
German Wirehaired Pointer
Rating: 1/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Japanese Spitz
Rating: 3/5
German Wirehaired Pointer
Rating: 3/5
Care & Maintenance
Japanese Spitz Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Japanese Spitzs require moderate daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Japanese Spitzs require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
German Wirehaired Pointer Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
German Wirehaired Pointers need substantial daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and more intense activities like running, swimming, or agility training.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, German Wirehaired Pointers require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Japanese Spitz Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Patellar Luxation
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Hip Dysplasia
- Dental Issues
- Allergies
German Wirehaired Pointer Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Von Willebrand's
- Thyroid Issues
- Entropion
Pros & Cons
Japanese Spitz
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
German Wirehaired Pointer
Pros
- Excellent hunting companion
- Versatile working ability
- Strong tracking skills
- Loyal family dog
Cons
- High exercise needs
- Regular grooming required
- Can be stubborn
- Strong prey drive
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Japanese Spitz and German Wirehaired Pointer, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.