Japanese Spitz vs Pomeranian
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
Pomeranian
Toy 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.
Pomeranian Overview
Pomeranians are compact, fox-faced dogs with a distinctive fluffy double coat forming a ruff around their neck. Their alert carriage and bright expression reflect their bold, vivacious nature. Standing 6-7 inches tall with a weight of 3-7 pounds, these spirited companions feature a plumed tail carried high over their back, small pointed ears, and a characteristic proud gait that showcases their confident personality.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Japanese Spitzs are less energetic than Pomeranians, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Japanese Spitzs require less grooming attention compared to Pomeranians.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Japanese Spitzs tend to be more reserved with strangers than Pomeranians.
- Trainability: Japanese Spitzs may be slightly easier to train due to their Japanese Spitz's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Pomeranians adapt better to apartment living, while Japanese Spitzs typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Japanese Spitz and Pomeranian, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Japanese Spitz | Pomeranian |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Toy |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years | 12-16 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Foundation Stock Service | Toy Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Japanese Spitz | Pomeranian |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 12-15 inches 30-38 cm | 6-7 inches 15-18 cm |
| Weight | 10-25 lbs 5-11 kg | 3-7 lbs 1-3 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Occasional | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Japanese Spitz | Pomeranian |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Loyal, Playful, Smart | Inquisitive, Bold, Lively |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Japanese Spitz | Pomeranian |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
Pomeranian Temperament
The Pomeranian is characterized by being inquisitive, bold, lively, 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 Pomeranian, 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
Pomeranian
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Japanese Spitz
Rating: 3/5
Pomeranian
Rating: 3/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Japanese Spitz
Rating: 3/5
Pomeranian
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Japanese Spitz
Rating: 2/5
Pomeranian
Rating: 1/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Japanese Spitz
Rating: 3/5
Pomeranian
Rating: 4/5
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.
Pomeranian Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Pomeranians 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, Pomeranians require significant grooming attention. This includes brushing several times per week to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is typically necessary.
Health & Lifespan
Japanese Spitz Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Patellar Luxation
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Hip Dysplasia
- Dental Issues
- Allergies
Pomeranian Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Patellar Luxation
- Tracheal Collapse
- Heart Issues
- Dental Problems
- Eye Conditions
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
Pomeranian
Pros
- Compact size
- Adaptable to apartment living
- Alert watchdog
- Intelligent
- Long lifespan
Cons
- High grooming needs
- Can be yappy
- Delicate build
- Stubborn streak
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Japanese Spitz and Pomeranian, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.