Wetterhoun vs German Spitz
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Wetterhoun
Foundation Stock Service
German Spitz
Foundation Stock Service
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Wetterhoun Overview
Wetterhouns are distinctive Dutch water dogs characterized by their curly, water-resistant coats and powerful swimming abilities. Their robust build, balanced proportions, and alert expression reflect their heritage as skilled hunting companions. Standing 23 inches at the shoulder with a sturdy frame, these dogs display a combination of strength and agility essential for their traditional waterfowl retrieval work.
German Spitz Overview
German Spitz dogs showcase a distinctive fox-like face with alert, pointed ears and a luxurious double coat that forms a striking ruff around the neck. Their compact yet sturdy build combines elegance with strength, featuring a well-proportioned body and characteristic plumed tail carried high over the back. These spirited companions display remarkable agility and grace in movement, embodying their lively and attentive nature.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Wetterhouns are less energetic than German Spitzs, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Wetterhouns require less grooming attention compared to German Spitzs.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Wetterhouns tend to be more reserved with strangers than German Spitzs.
- Trainability: Wetterhouns may be slightly easier to train due to their Wetterhoun's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: German Spitzs adapt better to apartment living, while Wetterhouns typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Wetterhoun and German Spitz, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Wetterhoun | German Spitz |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Small |
| Life Expectancy | 13-13 years | 13-15 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Foundation Stock Service | Foundation Stock Service |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Wetterhoun | German Spitz |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 5-23 inches 13-58 cm | 12-15 inches 30-38 cm |
| Weight | 50-75 lbs 23-34 kg | 24-26 lbs 11-12 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Occasional | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Wetterhoun | German Spitz |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Loyal, Good-Natured, Intelligent | Devoted, Lively, Attentive |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Wetterhoun | German Spitz |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Wetterhoun Temperament
The Wetterhoun is known for being loyal, good-natured, intelligent, 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 Spitz Temperament
The German Spitz is characterized by being devoted, lively, attentive, 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 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 Wetterhoun and German Spitz, 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
Wetterhoun
Rating: 3/5
German Spitz
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Wetterhoun
Rating: 3/5
German Spitz
Rating: 4/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Wetterhoun
Rating: 3/5
German Spitz
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Wetterhoun
Rating: 2/5
German Spitz
Rating: 1/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Wetterhoun
Rating: 2/5
German Spitz
Rating: 4/5
Care & Maintenance
Wetterhoun Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Wetterhouns 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, Wetterhouns require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
German Spitz Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
German Spitzs 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, German Spitzs 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
Wetterhoun Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip dysplasia
- Eye problems
- Ear infections
- Bloat
- Skin allergies
German Spitz Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Patellar Luxation
- Eye Problems
- Dental Issues
- Hip Dysplasia
- Heart Murmurs
Pros & Cons
Wetterhoun
Pros
- Excellent swimming ability
- Loyal family companion
- Weather-resistant coat
- Good hunting instincts
Cons
- Requires regular exercise
- Can be stubborn
- Limited breed availability
- Needs water access
German Spitz
Pros
- Highly adaptable
- Excellent watchdog
- Affectionate with family
- Low maintenance cost
Cons
- Can be vocal
- Suspicious of strangers
- Regular grooming needed
- Strong prey drive
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Wetterhoun and German Spitz, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.