By Jags Goldie Last updated: 27th October 2022

German Spitz

By

Jags Goldie
Last updated: 27th October 2022

The German Spitz may be recognized either as a single breed or a type of small- to medium-sized dogs. It is also referred to as a subcategory of the Spitz-type dogs. While the German Spitz’s appearance differs depending on the variety, all of them usually come with a wolf- or fox-like head, alert eyes, small, pointed ears, beautiful coat, and a bushy tail curled over their back.

Types

German Spitz Pictures

Quick Information

Alternative NamesDeutscher Spitz
CoatLong, straight topcoat, short, thick, woolly undercoat
ColorMittel: Black, white, brown, gray, orange
Keeshond: Gray
Klein: Black, white, brown, gray, orange
Zwergspitz: Black, white, brown, gray, orange
Großspitz: Brown, white, black
Breed TypePurebred
CategoryCompanion, Non-Sporting, Utility, Spitz-type
Lifespan13-15 years
WeightMittel: 15-22 lb
Keeshond: approximately 44 lb
Klein: 8.8-11.0 lb
Zwergspitz: about 6.6 lb
Großspitz: 33-44 lb
SizeSmall to Medium
HeightMittel: 13-15 in
Keeshond: 17-22 in
Klein: 9-11 in
Zwergspitz: 7-8 in
Großspitz: 17-19 in
SheddingHigh
Size of Litter1-5 puppies
TemperamentTrainable, devoted, attentive, lively
HypoallergenicNo
Good with ChildrenYes
BarkingOccasional
Country Originated inGermany
Competitive Registration/ Qualification InformationAKC/FSS, CKC, ACA, FCI, DRA, NAPR

Video: White German Spitz Mittel

History

Today’s German Spitz evolved from dogs that were found in Pomerania, a region in modern-day Germany. These Spitz-type dogs were described as excellent guard and watchdogs in German literature and documents dating back to the mid-15th century.

The dogs gained popularity among the fishermen and traders and by the 18th century, they were brought into the royal family of Great Britain. During the late 18th century, Queen Charlotte had some white German Spitz.

Although their popularity waned after the First World War, it was restored in the European countries during the 1970s and is still common in Germany, Australia, and Great Britain.

Temperament and Behavior

The German Spitz, characterized by a fun-loving and energetic disposition, will make you laugh with its antics. It is known to have an independent streak, which coupled with its mischiefs could make it a challenge to own. That being said, it makes a great family companion, always ready to please its people.

Although the Deutscher Spitz is friendly toward its family, it may be suspicious of strangers. It can coexist with other dogs and cats, but some individuals may have the tendency to chase smaller animals. If socialized early, it makes a good playmate for kids.

Care

Exercise

Being an active breed, these dogs require a moderate amount of exercise per day. They enjoy going for long walks, jogs, or an occasional romp around the yard.

Grooming

Their coat needs regular brushing using a pin brush for the removal of loose hairs and dirt. Basic care regimen like occasional bathing, trimming their nails every few months, and brushing the teeth often should be followed for your dog’s good health.

Health Problems

While the German Spitz is a generally healthy breed, few health issues are sometimes observed in them, including luxating patella, progressive retinal atrophy, retinal dysplasia, and seizures.

Training

Socialization
Early socialization is necessary to keep your dog from becoming distrustful of strangers. Taking it out and walking around in a public place will help it grow comfortable with unknown people around it. Take different routes and give your German Spitz the opportunity to meet new friends.

Obedience
Since it often displays some stubborn behavior, you should teach your Deutscher Spitz that you are its boss and it should obey your commands. ThThe best way to do this is by making it do a whole lot of tasks such as going for a long walk or obeying your commands before it can have its food. Do not give affection or food until it has obeyed you or is in a calm-passive state.

Feeding

You may feed your dog about a cup of quality dry food per day, divided into two meals.

Interesting Facts

  • Some breed organizations and registries allow different types of German Spitz dogs to be mixed, which include the Pom-Kee (Pomeranian X Keeshond mix).
  • In the past, these dogs were nicknamed the dunghill barker in Germany because they used to climb up on the farm dunghill and alert their owners with a high-pitched bark at the sight of anything suspicious.

One response to “German Spitz”

  1. Ashley Sager says:

    I want to buy one breed but i confused between german spitz and Pomeranian. Both having the almost same characteristics.

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