Japanese Spitz

Appearance: Size and Weight of the Japanese Spitz

The Japanese Spitz is very well balanced and elegantly built. With a height at the withers of 30 to 38 cm for males (females are slightly smaller) and a weight of 5 to 10 kg, his proportions are very harmonious.

This cheerful white “ball of fluff” has an alert expression with dark, almond-shaped eyes and a cute, pointed face.

Differences Compared to the Medium Spitz

Despite his short legs, the Nihon Supittsu is very athletic and, with a body ratio of 10:11 (height at the shoulder to body length), has a strong constitution.

This clearly sets him apart from the outwardly very similar German Medium Spitz, whose build should be completely square, with a 1:1 ratio. Another difference is the coat, which, unlike that of his German relative, occurs exclusively in pure white.

Thick Ruff and Flowing Plume

The white hair is straight and stands out from the body. This makes it look very voluminous – especially straight after brushing. It gains additional density from the short and very soft undercoat, which provides the Spitz with reliable protection against wind and weather. The top coat is mostly long, forming an attractive ruff around the shoulders and chest.

The tail, which the Japanese Spitz carries over his back, is also luxuriously feathered and forms a beautiful plume. On the face, ears, front of the forelegs and below the hocks, the coat is shorter, but still very dense.

Temperament: Is the Japanese Spitz a Barker?

The FCI breed standard for the Japanese Spitz explicitly states that a true representative of the breed “must not be noisy”. Although, like all Spitz breeds, he is a very attentive watchdog, he doesn’t need to announce every person or dog passing his territory.

Only if he genuinely senses danger to his family, whom he adores above all else, will he hold back no longer and defend them loudly and with great courage. Thankfully, this rarely happens, making the Spitz a very pleasant and calm companion who meets strangers with healthy reserve but without excessive suspicion.

Balanced Character with a Strong Need for Exercise

While he radiates a calm, balanced nature indoors, this little white dog really comes into his own outside. He loves romping about in the great outdoors, long walks through woods and fields, and games with his owner, where he can burn off plenty of energy.

Fast-paced dog sports, such as agility, are also great fun for this energetic four-legged friend. If walks, play and dog sports are combined with a mental challenge, the intelligent and cheerful Spitz is almost beside himself with excitement.

Is the Japanese Spitz a Family Dog?

Even more than outdoor exercise, this Japanese pedigree dog loves his family. Ideally, he wants to be involved in everything and thoroughly enjoys being close to his human companions. However, he doesn’t cope well with long periods of being left alone, and even other dogs or pets are not enough company for this people-oriented companion dog.

Is the Japanese Spitz Suitable for First-Time Owners?

His affectionate nature, combined with a quick understanding and willingness to learn, makes training very straightforward. Even people with little to no previous experience of dogs are unlikely to encounter many difficulties with this breed.

Living with young children or other pets is generally harmonious and trouble-free.

Keeping: Who Is the Japanese Spitz Suitable for?

Thanks to his friendly nature and lively yet calm temperament, the Japanese Spitz is an ideal companion for anyone who has the time and enthusiasm to actively engage with a dog.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re single or have a family, live in the countryside or in the city. The key is that your circumstances allow the dog to spend most of his time close to you and that he can accompany you to sports activities, to visit friends, shopping trips or even to the office.

A Little Stubborn Streak

Their people-oriented nature and obedient character fortunately make these dogs very easy-going companions. Even their occasional crafty attempts to get their own way, which give this little dog extra charm, can be quickly managed with a bit of consistency.

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Nutrition: Watch Out for Excess Weight

Just as a healthy, balanced diet can boost your dog’s vitality, the wrong nutrition can lead to a range of illnesses. A common issue in Spitz breeds is obesity, to which the Japanese Spitz is particularly prone due to his small size.

If not addressed in time, excess weight can lead to cardiovascular problems, diabetes and joint disorders. You’ll therefore be doing both your dog and your wallet a favour by sticking to the recommended daily food amount and avoiding too many treats between meals.

How to Recognise High-Quality Dog Food

Healthy dog food is primarily characterised by a high proportion of quality protein, supplemented with vegetables and possibly rice. A high grain content, on the other hand, is a sign of inferior food that can lead to digestive issues or weight gain in the long term. Likewise, no sweeteners or artificial flavour enhancers should be included in dog food.

Home Cooking and BARF as Alternatives

There is now a wide range of high-quality dry and wet foods that meet these requirements and provide your dog with all essential nutrients. However, home cooking and so-called BARF, where meat and vegetables are fed raw, are also becoming increasingly popular.

If you prefer not to rely on conventional products, these methods allow you to feed your dog in a very individual and needs-based way. However, both home cooking and BARF require precise knowledge of suitable ingredients and your dog’s individual nutritional requirements.

The Right Care for the Japanese Spitz

Dental problems in particular can be prevented through regular dental care, meaning brushing your dog’s teeth at least once a week, ideally daily.

Illnesses or inflammation of the eyes, nose, ears and claws can also be detected and treated early through proper care and regular checks.

Low Grooming Effort

Another important aspect is the Japanese Spitz’s coat care. Despite his impressive, abundant coat, grooming is relatively low maintenance, and it is usually sufficient to thoroughly comb or brush the coat twice a week. Only during the shedding season (twice a year) does grooming increase to daily combing.

Health: Typical Illnesses in the Japanese Spitz

One sign of a reputable, responsible breeder is the presentation of genetic test results. The breeding dogs used should have sound genetics in order to rule out hereditary diseases from the outset. Dogs in which breed-specific hereditary conditions have occurred must be excluded from breeding for the good of the breed.

How Long Does a Japanese Spitz Live?

This includes a predisposition to patellar luxation (dislocation of the kneecap), which can be hereditary in many dogs, especially small breeds. Eye problems, such as distichiasis or narrow tear ducts, as well as dental issues, can also occur in the Japanese Spitz. Life expectancy is around 12 to 16 years.

History: From Europe to a New Home in Japan

The strong resemblance to the German Medium Spitz suggests that the Japanese Spitz may descend from this breed. Other cynologists, however, believe the Spitz is more likely descended from the Nordic Spitz breeds.

Breeding Began in the 1920s

What is certain is that the origin of the Japanese Spitz lies not in Japan, but rather in Europe. From there, he arrived in Japan at the beginning of the 20th century with travellers.

The attractive white dog with a charming character quickly gained popularity among the Japanese population. With additional Spitz breeds from China, Canada and the USA, a distinct breeding programme was established in Japan in the 1920s.

Recognition as an Independent Breed

While in Europe efforts were made to increase the size of the Spitz, resulting in the German Giant Spitz, the Japanese focused more on the original compact form. In 1948, the Japanese Kennel Club established the first breed standard. Japan was recorded as the country of origin in the standard.

The FCI, which has officially recognised the Japanese Spitz since 1964, now lists him under standard no. 162 in Group 5 (Spitz and primitive types), subsection 5 (Asian Spitz and related breeds).

Growing Demand in Europe

In his native Japan, the Nihon Supittsu was very popular for a long time, particularly in the 1950s. Although he is still more common there than in Europe, demand for this elegant little dog is gradually shifting. While the number of newly registered puppies in Japan is declining, it is increasing in North America and Europe.

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Acquiring: Buying a Japanese Spitz

Despite growing popularity and demand in Europe and America, the Japanese Spitz is still one of the rarer dog breeds. As a result, the waiting time for a new litter from a breeder can be quite long.

If you are not set on a pedigree puppy and are also considering adopting an adult Spitz, it’s worth checking your local rescue centre as well as contacting breeders. Spitz dogs or Spitz crossbreeds regularly wait there for a loving new home. A puppy, however, should only ever be purchased from a reputable and certified breeder.

How Can I Recognise a Reputable Breeder?

Several factors play a role when choosing a suitable breeder. It’s not just the “formalities” that need to be in order – such as papers, pedigree and purchase contract – but also personal motives that ultimately influence your decision. First and foremost, the breeder should be likeable and trustworthy – and you won’t be able to judge that from a brief email or phone call.

One or, ideally, several meetings are necessary to gain a comprehensive impression of the breeder and their dogs. Does the breeder invite you into their home? Do they willingly show you their “breeding premises”, and do the dogs live closely integrated with the breeder’s family?

Learn about the Breed

The first few weeks are crucial for the socialisation of puppies, so the environment should absolutely suit the affectionate nature of the Japanese Spitz. In addition, a reputable breeder will be able to tell you a great deal about the breed and its particular traits. They will also ask about your living situation to ensure their puppy will have a good home with you.

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In Brief: The Most Frequently Asked Questions about the Japanese Spitz

Here you’ll find answers to commonly asked questions about this small Asian pedigree dog.

What is a Japanese Spitz Called?

Here in the UK, the breed is known as the Japanese Spitz. In his native Japan, the little dog is called Nihon Supittsu.

How much Exercise Does a Japanese Spitz Need?

As well as his need for closeness, it’s important to meet this four-legged friend’s strong need for exercise. Regular walks of at least one hour a day, plus longer hikes, are a must – whatever the weather. Dog sports are also ideal for keeping the Spitz mentally and physically stimulated.

Conclusion: Is the Japanese Spitz the Right Dog for You?

This cute ball of fluff with a pretty face and impressive coat is enjoying growing popularity in many countries. His friendly and child-loving character, along with his lack of tendency to bark excessively or hunt, also adds to his appeal among dog lovers. Nevertheless, before buying a Japanese Spitz, you should be sure that this breed fits your lifestyle.

People who are heavily committed to their careers and therefore spend a lot of time away from home are generally not well suited to this affectionate and people-oriented dog. Japanese Spitz dogs want to spend plenty of time with their family and quickly feel neglected if they don’t receive enough attention. You should therefore have plenty of free time and ideally be able to take your dog along on many of your outings. If you’re allowed to bring your dog to the office, you’re unlikely to have any issues with this easy-going and calm companion.

Japanese Spitz Profile

Special features:	The Japanese Spitz visually resembles the German Medium Spitz but barks significantly less. He is a popular companion and family dog.
Character:	playful, affectionate, obedient, fearless
Height at the withers:	Males: 30–38 cm Females slightly smaller
Weight:	not specified, approx. 5–10 kg
Coat:	long, dense, straight and standing off, white
Coat care:	low to moderate maintenance
Exercise:	needs sufficient activity and exercise
Suitable for beginners:	yes
Barking:	barks occasionally
Life expectancy:	up to approx. 16 years
Typical illnesses:	patellar luxation, eye diseases, dental problems
FCI group:	5. Spitz and primitive types
Exercise requirement:	medium to high
Origin:	Japan