Japanese Spitz vs Lapponian Herder
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
Lapponian Herder
Foundation Stock Service
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.
Lapponian Herder Overview
Lapponian Herders are medium-sized Nordic dogs with distinctive thick double coats suited for harsh Arctic conditions. Their strong, muscular build combines agility with endurance, featuring pricked ears and a curved tail carried over the back. Alert and keen-eyed, they display the classic spitz-type appearance with a wedge-shaped head and deep chest, embodying their herding heritage through both physical form and attentive demeanor.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Japanese Spitzs are less energetic than Lapponian Herders, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Japanese Spitzs require less grooming attention compared to Lapponian Herders.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Japanese Spitzs tend to be more reserved with strangers than Lapponian Herders.
- 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 Lapponian Herders typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Japanese Spitz and Lapponian Herder, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Japanese Spitz | Lapponian Herder |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years | 10-14 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Foundation Stock Service | Foundation Stock Service |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Japanese Spitz | Lapponian Herder |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 12-15 inches 30-38 cm | 18-20 inches 46-51 cm |
| Weight | 10-25 lbs 5-11 kg | 70-70 lbs 32-32 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Occasional | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Japanese Spitz | Lapponian Herder |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Loyal, Playful, Smart | Friendly, Energetic, Intelligent |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Japanese Spitz | Lapponian Herder |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
Lapponian Herder Temperament
The Lapponian Herder is characterized by being friendly, energetic, intelligent, which makes them better for households without small children. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They're naturally cautious around strangers, which enhances their ability to serve as watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them versatile companions that can adapt to your activity level, though regular exercise is still important.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Japanese Spitz and Lapponian Herder, 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
Lapponian Herder
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Japanese Spitz
Rating: 3/5
Lapponian Herder
Rating: 3/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Japanese Spitz
Rating: 3/5
Lapponian Herder
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Japanese Spitz
Rating: 2/5
Lapponian Herder
Rating: 1/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Japanese Spitz
Rating: 3/5
Lapponian Herder
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.
Lapponian Herder Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Lapponian Herders need regular daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Lapponian Herders 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
Lapponian Herder Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Bloat
- Allergies
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
Lapponian Herder
Pros
- Excellent herding abilities
- Loyal family companion
- Intelligent and trainable
- Good with children
Cons
- High exercise needs
- Strong herding instinct
- Not suited for hot climates
- Requires experienced owner
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Japanese Spitz and Lapponian Herder, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.