Japanese Spitz

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Size: Small

Weight: 11 - 13 lbs.

Height: 12" - 14"

Life Span: 12 years

Health Problems: Excellent health record. No known hereditary conditions.

Origin: Japan (1900s)

Also Known As: Nihon Supittsu

Group: Northern Breed / Spitz

Category: Companion Dog

Exercise Needs

The Japanese Spitz requires long daily walks.

Grooming Needs

Regular brushing and combing required is necessary for your Japanese Spitz. During shedding season, use a thin comb for the undercoat. Rarely needs a bath.

Temperament

This breed is intelligent, alert, obedient and playful. The Japanese Spitz is easy to train and enjoys learning tricks and playing games. Despite its small size, this breed fancies itself a guard dog and will make brave attempts to protect its owner. It makes an excellent watchdog. This breed has a tendency to bark frequently, but breeding efforts have reduced this trait somewhat in recent years.

Compatibility with Kids

Good with children.

History

It is suspected that the Japanese Spitz is merely the miniaturized version of the Samoyed, which was first introduced by the nomadic Samoyed tribe to Mongolia in Ancient Times. The Mongolians shared the breed with Japan, who later used selective breeding to develop the small Spitz.