German Spitz

Dog Breed Profile

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German Spitz History

The German Spitz is a medium-sized, short-haired, double-coated, hound type dog with a pricked or docked tail. The first written reference to the “Spitz” type is from 1591. It is suggested that the name “Spitz” means “pointer”. The ancestry of the German Spitz is disputed. According to one theory, the spitz-type dogs originated with settlers from Pomerania, a province in north-eastern Germany. Another theory is that the spitz-type dogs originated in Finland.

Time of Origin

1400s

Country of Origin

Germany

Ancestry

Spitz

German Spitz Physical Characteristics

The German Spitz is a small, medium-sized pet dog that typically stands between 9 and 12 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 6 and 16 pounds. They have a round head, small ears, and long, soft fur that comes in any color. They have a flat, tapering tail and a compact, sturdy build. They have a lively, alert temperament and are people oriented.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Unknown

Coat Colors

Unknown

Height Range

Male Height Range: 12 – 15 inches

Female Height Range: 12 – 15 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 24 – 26 lbs

Female Weight Range: 24 – 26 lbs

German Spitz Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

14-16 yrs

German Spitz Health Concerns

Epilepsy, Patellar Luxation, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Retinal Dysplasia, Persistent Pupillary Membrane

German Spitz Temperament and Behaviour

The German Spitz is a cheerful and fun-loving breed that craves attention. They can be a bit stubborn, but make good companions. They are playful and adventurous, but also enjoy cuddling and relaxing. They are often very attached to their families and will bark for attention and affection.

German Spitz Activity Requirements

German Spitz are a small, compact, short-haired dog that originated in Germany. They are often called “Monkey Dogs” because they are adorable, friendly, and like to do things their own way. A daily walk or indoor play will keep your German Spitz happy and healthy. While they don’t need as much space as larger breeds, they do require regular exercise. If you live in an apartment or have limited outdoor space, a German Spitz may be the right dog for you. They do not require a lot of exercise and can get by with a short walk and some outdoor time.

Miles Per Day

Unknown

Activity Per Day

Unknown

Daily Food

2.2 cups

Kennel Club Recognition

American Kennel Club

Recognized by the American Kennel Club

German Spitz is part of the Foundation Stock Service group.

Visit the American Kennel Club website.

The Kennel Club

Recognized by The Kennel Club

German Spitz is part of the Utility group.

Visit the Kennel Club website.

Australian National Kennel Council

Recognized by the Australian National Kennel Council

German Spitz is part of the Non-Sporting group.

Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.

Canadian Kennel Club

Not Recognized

German Spitz is part of the Unclassified group.

Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.