The German Spitz comes in a variety of small sizes. With its pointed and lively face, it has an intelligent and thoughtful look. These canines make fun and loving pets. A Spitz is also a fantastic watchdog and a great companion.
This fluffy and fuzzy dog breed is extremely old. Having roots in central Europe, many consider it the oldest pup in the area. During the middle ages, their keen eyes and ears made for wonderful alarm systems. Always on the alert, this animal was a valuable friend to farmers and traders.
Presently, Spitzes are ideal apartment dogs but equally at home on a farm. As long as they’re loved and surrounded by family, they’re happy. Though they bark a lot, with a little training, they’re the perfect pal. Learn more about these cute puppies, and maybe you’ll want to rescue or adopt one today!
German Spitz Dog Breed Pictures
Appearance
What Does A German Spitz Look Like
German Spitz dog sizes can be a bit confusing. In Europe, there are five different types, ranging from the smallest, toy, to the largest, Wolfspitz. America only recognizes two sizes, miniature and medium. However, the toy is called a Pomeranian, and the large a Keeshond.
Their height ranges up to a little over a foot tall, and their weight can hit 26 pounds. This pup’s distinct appearance has a lot to do with its fur. Coats come in many colors, such as black, cream, chocolate, red, grey, and brown. Plus, they may have black and tan or even sable patterns. But expect some shedding with the Spitz. They have a medium-length double coat, so they shed a good deal for such a small pet.
This puppy’s sharp ears come to a high point, providing a wonderful ability to hear. It has an adorable face with a smart look and a perky disposition.
Temperament
This is a puppy with personality! They have a pretty high energy level but are fairly easy to train. Due to their intelligence, they like to learn new things and are always looking for fun. That’s why Spitzes make great pets for all ages. Spitzes are ideal family dogs for the young and old alike. Even when they’re full-grown, their size is perfect for their owners to cuddle.
Characteristics include awareness and being alert at all times. Barking is common, but training as a pup will lead to a gentle adult. If you put forth the effort at first, your Spitz will adapt well to people and other animals. But it will always retain its watchdog state of mind. You know you’ll be safe when this little companion is around.
Living Needs
The German Spitz is a happy animal. This puppy can have fun anywhere! It’s a great apartment dog but will call anywhere home. As long as it’s with its people, this little one can do well anywhere. A country farm or a house in the suburbs would both be an ideal living space.
Family is important to these pets. They love to play, but it’s vital to keep them busy. Otherwise, their intelligence could get them into trouble. They have a curious side, so you don’t want them to become bored. Make sure to give them plenty of attention. Even just cuddling them will keep these pups in good standing. Keep in mind that small children should learn how to interact with these or any other animals. You’ll want to supervise their playtime.
Care
How to Groom a German Spitz
Do German Spitz shed? Yes, they do, and their fur is quite thick. They have a double coat they lose twice per year, and the process takes several weeks. This shedding will produce a lot of fluff, so daily grooming is important. However, aside from these periods, you only need to brush your pup once per week.
Because of the nature of its coat, the Spitz should never be shaved or have its hair cut short. You don’t need to give this dog a bath too often. Even if it gets dirty, bathing isn’t always necessary. Mud, for example, is easily brushed out once it dries. So overall, this isn’t a high-maintenance pet.
How to Train a German Spitz
When it comes to training, a Spitz dog is eager to learn. The breed is easy to train and does respond well to positive feedback. In no time, your doggy will even be able to dance!
As it’s a wonderful watchdog, the Spitz does tend to bark a lot. This is a behavior characteristic you’ll want to work on with your puppy. Again though, it’s not a hard issue to deal with as long as you stay focused.
How Much Exercise Does a German Spitz Need
When it comes to exercise, German Spitzes don’t need a lot of it. Yes, it’s important to walk your pup, but you don’t need to do anything extravagant. Toys make for a great playtime, too!
Letting your dog run around outside is fantastic. But just make sure that they’re in a contained area. This is an intelligent breed, so any small opening offers a chance for it to escape. As long as you don’t let your puppy get bored, it’ll behave.
Feeding
A Spitz can get a little fat if it gets much dog food. And since this is a small breed, too many treats aren’t a good idea. For best health and ideal weight, maintain a regular feeding schedule.
Health
The average German Spitz lifespan ranges from 13 to 15 years, no matter the variety. As long as you feed your pal a good diet, its life expectancy is quite high. On the whole, this breed doesn’t have a lot of health issues. However, just like any other animal, it does play host to a few problems that aren’t uncommon.
Knees, legs, and eyes are the main areas that are important to watch. Adoption from breeders should always involve a documented medical history for your pup. Having this background will help you keep it healthy for years to come.
History
According to AKC, the origin of this companion dog dates back long ago. Existing for 6,000 years in Europe, it’s considered the oldest dog breed from that area. A loyal friend to hunters and gatherers, it was a portable alarm system. Its bark and alert nature also made it an asset to the fishing, trade, and farm industries.
These watchdogs were dedicated to their owners. But over time, their purpose shifted. In the late 1700s, they attracted the eye of royalty. It was at this point they became cute pets instead of workers. They had found a new home in British castles instead of fields and farmland.
All through the Victorian era, they were popular. But during World War I, German Spitzes lost their appeal to the public. It took a while for them to bounce back, but in the 1970s, they again became family dogs.
Fun Facts About German Spitzes
- The German Spitz is quite an old dog breed. Its roots trace back to the Stone Age Peat dogs.
- The Spitz is known as the oldest pup in central Europe. Many other breeds can trace their history to this animal.