Japanese Spitz Dog Breed Information

Group

Non-sporting

Weight

5-10 kg

Height

30-38 cm

Lifespan

10-16 years

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About the Japanese Spitz

Reviewed by:

Dr. Dilber Hussain

Veterinarian

The Japanese spitz is a small dog that originated in Japan. They are known for their white, furry double coats that protect them from cold weather conditions.

The Japanese spitz makes the perfect family dog. They are clean and calm and only want to be around their people, making them excellent house dogs.

Read on to find out more about Japanese spitz dogs and why they are one of the most well-loved small dog breeds around.

What is the history & origin of the Japanese Spitz?

The Japanese spitz is a relatively new breed and originated in Japan in the 1920s through crossbreeding other breeds (mostly spitz-type dogs) which were imported from across the world, including Canada, Siberia, the United States, China, and Australia.

It is thought that the breeds used to create the Japanese spitz included German spitz dogs, the Keeshond (small wolfs spitz), and other spitz dogs.

After a lot of crossbreeding, white spitz breeds began to appear in 1948 and were named the Japanese spitz. Unfortunately, breeding records were destroyed during World War II.

Although this breed is recognised by the Japanese Kennel Club, its similarities to the American Eskimo dog mean that the American Kennel Club still does not recognise it as a breed, however, it is part of the Foundation Stock Service of the American Kennel Club, meaning it is en route to recognition.

What is a Japanese Spitz breed?

The Japanese spitz is recognised by its pure white double coat. It has a long, fluffy tail that curls up over the back. The recognisable coat is short on the legs, although there is some feathering on the front legs.

This rare breed has triangular, upright ears and large dark eyes with a slight slant. The nose is black, as are the lips, and their face ends in a pointed muzzle.

Learn more about: Japanese Spitz Colours

Who is a Japanese Spitz best for?

The Japanese spitz is an excellent dog for families because of its chilled nature. It is a loyal breed that does well with children. A well-socialized spitz will get on well with other dogs. Although initially shy, they warm up eventually and can be playful with other pets and dogs.

Japanese Spitz Grooming & Shedding

This breed will completely shed its undercoat in either the fall or the spring. They also shed moderately throughout the year. During this time, extra brushing is required to help remove the undercoat.

Apart from the shedding, the Japanese spitz is easy to groom and keep clean. They do not require any trimming, and only need the occasional bath, as their fur repels dirt. They require weekly brushing and regular nail trimming.

Dental hygiene is essential with this breed, so pet parents should brush their dog’s teeth two or three times a week.

Learn more about: Japanese Spitz Grooming Tips & Styles

Do Japanese Spitz bark a lot?

These little dogs have a big bark. The Japanese spitz is very vocal and can get fairly loud. They can bark to get attention, show their distrust of someone, or vocalise their unhappiness with you.

If you are looking for a quiet breed, then the Japanese spitz dog is not for you.

What is the average weight & height of a Japanese Spitz dog?

The Japanese Spitz and German Spitz differ primarily in their origin, size, and temperament. The German Spitz hails from Germany and has been around since 4000 BC, while the Japanese Spitz was developed in Japan in 1948. In terms of size, the German Spitz is slightly larger, standing 28-35 cm tall and weighing 10-18 kg, compared to the Japanese Spitz, which stands 30-38 cm tall and weighs 5-10 kg.

Both breeds are affectionate and eager to please, but the Japanese Spitz is more social and dislikes being alone, often seeking attention and enjoying snuggles. In contrast, the German Spitz is more independent and can be stubborn. Their energy levels also differ, with the Japanese Spitz exhibiting higher energy and a greater need for activity.

Learn more about: Japanese Spitz Size & Weight Chart

Are Japanese Spitz easy to train?

Japanese spitz dogs are highly intelligent and need to please their owners. This means that with the right type of motivation, they are easy to train.

Small dog syndrome is an attitude problem that arises in small breeds. To prevent this from happening, use positive reinforcement training and keep training sessions very short.

Although it is a small breed, don’t carry your pup everywhere. If you socialise with them from a young age, most dogs will grow up to be lovely, fun, and confident.

Because of their eagerness to please, a Japanese spitz is a great candidate for dog sports and agility. They also tend to do well last a dog show if properly trained.

Learn more about: Japanese Spitz Training Guide – Crate, Toilet & More Tips!

How do Japanese Spitz behave? A look at their temperament and personality

Japanese spitzes are intelligent, full of energy, and all-around happy dogs. They are good with children, and once properly introduced, get on well with other pets in the household.

They take a while to warm up to strangers, but eventually, they will love everyone they meet.

These little dogs can be big barkers if they do not get their way, and love to protect their families from perceived threats. They really believe they are a big dog in a little dog’s body.

They are well-suited to apartment living if they get regular walks, and they also adapt well to houses with yards.

Learn more about: Japanese Spitz Temperament & Personality Traits

Does the Japanese Spitz have any common health issues?

They are a healthy breed with very few chronic health issues. If you feed your spitz a healthy diet, they will live a healthy life.

There are a few health ailments that could affect your Japanese spitz.

Serious conditions:

Patellar luxation: This condition causes the kneecap to dislocate and move out of its normal position.
Cruciate disease: this disease can cause lameness due to ligament injury. It is common in many purebred dogs.

Minor conditions:

Runny eyes
Skin allergies and other skin problems
Ear infections (common in dogs with pointy ears)
Allergic reactions

Kennel clubs recommend that Japanese spitzes go for an annual patella evaluation to prevent patellar luxation.

Learn more about: Common Japanese Spitz Health Issues

What is the lifespan of a Japanese Spitz?

The average lifespan for a Japanese spitz is 10 to 16 years.

How much does a Japanese Spitz need to be fed?

The amount you feed your Japanese spitz will depend on the size of the dog. Always make sure to feed high-quality food that will provide all the required nutrients.

A small, 5 kg spitz should eat about 1/2 of food a day, whereas a 10 kg spitz should eat 1.5 cups of food each day. The food should be spread over two mealtimes.

Treats should be given in moderation, as it can result in obesity.

Learn more about: What to Feed a Japanese Spitz? Diet & Feeding Chart

How much can you expect to pay for a Japanese Spitz in Australia?

The Japanese spitz is a unique breed, and it can be difficult to find them in Australia.

On average, Japanese spitz puppies from a reputable breeder can cost between $1,400 and $3,500.

Learn more about: Japanese Spitz Prices In Australia

Japanese Spitz FAQs

How long can you leave a Japanese Spitz alone?

A well-trained Japanese spitz can be left home alone for a few hours. They are family dogs and love being with their humans, so being left home alone for too long can cause the dog anxiety.

How long you leave your dog alone will depend on the dog itself. They might be confident enough to enjoy being home alone, or they might get distracted if left alone and bored.

However, no matter how confident and well-trained your Japanese spitz is, you should never leave it alone for longer than 12 hours.

Can Japanese Spitz dogs tolerate hot weather?

Although the breed originated in cold climates, they are good at coping with hot weather. Their double coat insulates them against hot temperatures, while their white fur reflects heat.

What shampoo is good for a Japanese Spitz?

There are plenty of dog shampoos on the market. If your Japanese spitz does not have ant skin allergies, hotspots, or yeast infection, then a standard whitening shampoo is preferred (however any dog shampoo is suitable).

If your spitz has special needs, consider these and opt for a soothing, sensitive shampoo.

What is the difference between Japanese Spitz and German Spitz?

The breed began from crossbreeding a white German spitz with other spitz-type breeds. Although the Japanese spitz originated from the German spitz, there are slight differences between the breeds.