Japanese Spitz vs Pharaoh Hound
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
Pharaoh Hound
Hound 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.
Pharaoh Hound Overview
Noble and graceful, Pharaoh Hounds possess a distinctive copper-colored coat and expressive amber eyes. Their athletic build features long, clean lines and a streamlined silhouette characteristic of ancient sighthounds. Standing proudly with erect ears and an alert expression, these dogs combine elegance with surprising strength. Their muscular frame supports effortless movement, while their intelligent gaze reflects their keen hunting heritage.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Japanese Spitzs are less energetic than Pharaoh Hounds, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Japanese Spitzs require less grooming attention compared to Pharaoh Hounds.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Japanese Spitzs tend to be more reserved with strangers than Pharaoh Hounds.
- Trainability: Pharaoh Hounds may be slightly easier to train due to their Pharaoh Hound's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Japanese Spitzs adapt better to apartment living, while Pharaoh Hounds typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Japanese Spitz and Pharaoh Hound, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Japanese Spitz | Pharaoh Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years | 12-14 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Foundation Stock Service | Hound Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Japanese Spitz | Pharaoh Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 12-15 inches 30-38 cm | 21-25 inches 53-64 cm |
| Weight | 10-25 lbs 5-11 kg | 45-55 lbs 20-25 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Occasional | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Japanese Spitz | Pharaoh Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Loyal, Playful, Smart | Friendly, Smart, Noble |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Japanese Spitz | Pharaoh Hound |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
Pharaoh Hound Temperament
The Pharaoh Hound is characterized by being friendly, smart, noble, 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 high energy requires substantial daily exercise and activities to keep them physically and mentally satisfied.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Japanese Spitz and Pharaoh Hound, 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
Pharaoh Hound
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Japanese Spitz
Rating: 3/5
Pharaoh Hound
Rating: 5/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Japanese Spitz
Rating: 3/5
Pharaoh Hound
Rating: 4/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Japanese Spitz
Rating: 2/5
Pharaoh Hound
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Japanese Spitz
Rating: 3/5
Pharaoh Hound
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.
Pharaoh Hound Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Pharaoh Hounds 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, Pharaoh Hounds 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
Pharaoh Hound Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Allergies
- Eye Problems
- Cardiac Issues
- Thyroid Problems
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
Pharaoh Hound
Pros
- Elegant and graceful
- Low grooming needs
- Athletic and agile
- Gentle with family
Cons
- Strong prey drive
- Independent nature
- Needs secure fencing
- Can be aloof
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Japanese Spitz and Pharaoh Hound, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.