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Japanese Spitz

Size:
Lifespan:
Over 12 years
Coath length:
Medium
Sheds:
Yes
Grooming:
Every day
Size of home:
Size of garden:
Small/medium garden
Town or country:
Either
Energy levels:
Medium
Characteristics:
Gentle, loving and people-orientated
Gets along with other pets:
Yes
Family dog:
Yes
Suitable for:
All owners
Breed standard colours:
Below
Average dimension(s):
Height: 30-38 cm (12-15 in)Weight: 4.5-11 kg (10-25 lb)
Requires training:
Basic training

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The Japanese Spitz is a small to medium-sized dog of Spitz-type developed in Japan in the 1920s and 1930s.

This is a happy and smart dog, famous for its distinctive pure white coat. They have fox-like faces, with an elongated nose, pricked triangular ears and large oval eyes. Their glorious coat consists of a soft inner coat and a long outer coat, with a beautiful mane around their neck and a plumed tail that curls over their back. In contrast to the white coat, they have black noses, dark eyes and black eye rims. The Japanese Spitz is a bright and affectionate dog, which thrives on human companionship and attention. They are gentle and loving, making them ideal for families with small children and as companions for older people. They have a tendency to bark which makes them good watchdogs, although their friendly nature means they will greet everyone with a wagging tail. The Japanese Spritz enjoys being active and getting outside with its owners and loves nothing more than hanging out with its family, to who it will be utterly devoted.

History

The Japanese Spitz is a relatively modern breed, developed in Japan in the 1920s and 1930s by mixing a number of spritz type breeds, including the Samoyed and White German Spitz. Although a relatively new breed, they are becoming widely popular further afield than Japan, due to their loving nature and attractive looks.

Health and common issues

Generally healthy. Japanese Spitz are generally healthy dogs but may still be prone to a number of conditions including patella luxation and runny eyes, most commonly due to an allergy and having tear ducts that are too small.