German Spitz: Character traits

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One of the ancient breeds, originating from the "peat" dog, is called the German Spitz.

Germany is recognized as the official country of origin, but disputes over the origin are still ongoing.

German Spitz has several varieties of breed, which differ in their size.

There are five of them: keeskhond, large, medium, small and dwarf spitz. The breed standard is the same for everyone, the only exceptions are the size and color options.

By the nature of the spitz is prone to active contact with a person, is a sensitive hunter and loves to take a leading position, so take care of his education, taking into account the features, should be from the very moment of acquisition.

Standard Description

Keeshond is the largest representative of the breed among other species, with growth from 43 to 55 cm, it has a weight of 25-30 kg.

A large German norticle has a height at the withers from 42 to 50 cm, and a weight from 18 to 22 kg.

The average German Spitz has a height of 30 to 38 cm, and a weight of 8 to 12 kg.

The height of the small Spitz varies from 23 to 29 cm, and the weight of 4-7 kg. Pomeranian species of breed has a height of 18 to 22 cm, with a weight of 1.5 - 3, 2 kg.

The length of the body is approximately equal to the height, therefore, the description uses a square format. A medium sized head has a wedge-shaped muzzle, the length of which is one-third shorter than the skull.

The transition from the frontal part to the muzzle is clearly expressed, but has no sharp lines. Dark eyes are oval in shape, small nose, black.

In brown dogs, it should have the same shade as the coat color. The ears are set, have a triangular shape and small in size. The neck is medium in size, decorated with a lush wool collar.

The description of the body is similar to other varieties of Spitz: a compact body with developed muscles, a broad chest and a short but strong croup.

The high tail is folded into a ring and located in the center of the back, covered with thick hair. Limbs straight, parallel. Hind limbs pubescent more strongly.

Paws with thick pads, fingers clenched. Tightly pressed skin should not have folds on the face and neck. Special charm to the dog gives thick luxurious wool.

Great German Spitz has three color options:

Black, with the same dark skin color and black undercoat. The presence of spots of light shade is unacceptable.
White, has light skin and a white undercoat. Invalid option is considered yellow bloom. Particular attention is paid to the area behind the ears.
Brown, uniform color, without spots of various shades.

The average German Spitz, as small and dwarf, has a greater number of color options: black, white, brown, orange and zona-gray.

Keeshond has only zonar gray color. Breed of the rock is considered the presence of white spots on monochromatic color variants.

Close attention is paid to the teeth, the German Spitz should have 42 teeth - a smaller number is considered a breed disadvantage. Scissor bite, but for all species the standard description allows for the presence of a direct one.

Temperament and the process of education

The German Spitz is an active and curious dog, it easily tolerates a change of scenery, and adapts to new conditions of existence.

The nature of this breed requires constant communication, so you do not need to keep the animal indoors or on a chain.

In the absence of constant contact with the person, the dog acquires harmful traits of character: begins to nibble on the furniture and personal belongings of the owner, to scatter the furnishings.

The cases of empty barking increase, the dog looks like a stupid and non-understanding command of the owner. A small amount of attention leads to inability to establish contact with other people or animals.

She becomes fearful, reacts incredulously to participation. There are opposite manifestations of emotions: the dog becomes aggressive, for no reason rushes at others.

To avoid such situations, raising Spitz should be practiced from childhood, without waiting for the formation of bad skills.

In training it is important to show patience and perseverance: the dog must understand the norms of behavior. At the same time, rudeness or cruelty should be avoided so as not to raise a frightened and timid creature.

The peculiarity of the breed is its desire to dominate the host and the other members of the family, such desires must be stopped in time.

For a more successful implementation of this task, the dog must be occupied by a service. If it is purchased as a companion, then the best solution would be dog sports.

This will help to lose excess energy, and focus on working on a specific task. Training should be systematic: unregulated elemental exercises will worsen the situation, making the spitz flighty and nervous.

When raising a puppy, consistency is important: if prohibitions are planned for an adult dog, then they must be delivered from its first day of appearance in the house.

The behavior of the owners, all allowing the touching puppy, will lead to the fact that the adult dog will do its utmost to try to achieve the previously allowable.

Without getting the desired, the German Spitz will attract the attention of increasing barking, damage to things.

Punishment in such situations only embitter the character of the dog.

To avoid this, you should make every effort to educate the Spitz. Possessing a sharp and sharp mind, they easily understand and carry out the necessary commands.

Maintenance and care

Medium and small German Spitz are intended more for keeping in apartments as room companions.

Big German Spitz has a slightly larger size, so it feels more comfortable on the territory of a private house with the possibility of free-range.

A dog needs daily walks from 20 to 60 minutes, but if there is a possibility of a longer walk, then it should be used.

The nature of the representatives of the breed requires physical activity, and the warm and thick wool allows you to walk even in the cold winter time.

Care of a woolen cover requires special attention from the host. Should be stocked up with brushes made of natural bristles and puhokerkami. Combing the pet 2 - 3 times a week, during the period of molting increase the number.

Frequent washing is not required, the dog has an unpleasant odor from Spitz. Claws trimmed as needed. Every 3 to 4 weeks, check the ears and eyes, and if necessary, clean it with a damp soft cloth.

Power Features

The first days after the acquisition of a puppy continue to feed him the same that gave the breeder. It would not be superfluous to know how much feed was accounted for by the puppy and how many times a day it should be given.

The owner decides on further feeding: he can choose dry food, then it is better to give preference to premium varieties, and supplement it with a multivitamin complex.

When choosing a dry or canned food should pay attention to the description.

Often manufacturers use in the composition of plant protein, unsuitable for long-term feeding of the animal.

With natural nutrition should pay attention to the quality and quantity of food. On how much food your pet eats, depends on its health and appearance.

Puppies are fed 4–5 times a day, gradually reducing the number of feedings. An adult dog is fed twice a day.

You can not give the animal food from the common table, as well as sweets, spicy and smoked food.

Avian and beef bones should also be avoided - their sharp edges can damage the walls of the animal's esophagus.

The menu should include the following products:

The basis of the diet is meat. Daily consumption should not be below 20 grams per 1 kg of dog's live weight. In the case of offal, the calculation is increased by a third.
A fish. Preference is given to sea species in raw or slightly scalded form, river varieties require careful heat treatment.
Cereals, mainly rice and buckwheat. You should not eat pasta, oatmeal or semolina in the animal.
Milk products. Very useful for dogs cottage cheese, ryazhenka, kefir.
Vegetable oil. Essential supplement in animal food, but it is important to control how much it is added daily. With excessive use can cause stomach upset.

Regardless of the type of food, it is important to monitor the pet's reaction to its use. If the hair on the hind limbs is stained after a walk, you need to reconsider the diet, and eliminate the harmful product or food grade from the diet.

To determine the average amount of feed given in one meal will help the dog's behavior: if it stays for a long time at an empty bowl, turns and licks it, then it is necessary to increase the portion.

If he runs up to the call reluctantly, chooses the pieces more tasty and eats inactively, then the amount of food is reduced.

The German Spitz is a great caretaker, he sensitively reacts to danger, and distinguishes between "his - others'."

With proper upbringing, it gets along well with children and other animals, willingly takes part in games with them.

By the nature of the dog is active, loves outdoor games, therefore, especially suitable for lovers of long walks or intense runs.

Photo Gallery

The German Spitz breed includes a wide variety of dogs, varying in size, coat color, and type of face. You can see them all in our photo selection.

From the presented video you will learn about the history of the origin of this breed, its varieties and their differences, the nature of the nature of these dogs and much more.

General information:

The German Spitz is a square-format dog (the height at the withers is equal to the length of the body), compact, with a deep chest, straight back and strong limbs.

The sizes of dogs of this breed vary depending on the type:

Wolfspitz (keeshond) ─ 45 cm to 55 cm:

large (bulkhead) ─ from 42 cm to 50 cm:

middle (mittelpitz) ─ from 30 cm to 38 cm:

small german spitz (kleinspitz) ─ from 23 cm to 29 cm:

Pomeranian (Miniature Spitz) ─ from 18 cm to 22 cm:

In some countries, for example, in the USA and the UK, keeshond and pomeranian are presented as separate breeds.

The hair of all representatives of the breed consists of two layers: a long non-adjacent guard hair and a dense, cotton-like undercoat.

The color of the German Spitz can be black, brown, white, orange or zonaarno-gray color. Less common are black and tan, cream, sable and spotted colors. In spotted individuals, white predominates, and the spots are located mainly on the body.

In the photo - a rarely found black and tan color (Martin German from Nizhny Novgorod)

White spots on a dark background are not allowed. Intermediate versions of colors ─ orange-sable and cream-sable are not excluded.

Not all of the above-mentioned colors are characteristic for each of the species of the breed: keeshond can only be zone-gray, and white, black, and brown are inherent in the large spitz.

Of course, a noticeable difference in height had an effect on certain proportions of dogs, but the differences remained minimal. In the three largest varieties, the ratio of the length of the muzzle to the head is 2: 3, and in the miniature and miniature-finders ─ 2: 4.

The head that is not too large in relation to the body is wedge-shaped, tapering towards the muzzle. It gives to small representatives of the breed a resemblance to a chanterelle, which is further enhanced by standing upright, closely spaced triangular small ears.

In this picture to the left is the vicious line of breeding a German spitz with an egg-shaped skull and a sharp foot (going from the muzzle to the forehead). On the right is the rock profile.

The transition from the muzzle to the forehead moderately pronounced. The nose is small and round, black. In brown representatives of the breed it is dark brown, as well as pigmentation of the lips and eyelids. The representatives of the other colors here are allowed only black.

The small dark eyes are almond-shaped and set slightly obliquely.

The forelegs are straight and strong, with feathering, the elbows are adjacent to the rib cage. The hind legs are also strong and muscular, covered with thick hair to the hock joints.

In the area of the neck and chest, the fur creates a lush collar, while the muzzle, head and ears are covered with a short velvety fur.

The tail is also decorated with long hair. When set high, it bends into a tight ring, sometimes double, and lies tightly on the dog's back.

The photo shows a standard German spitz (mittel) of white color.

Character traits

German spitz-dogs lively and mobile. They joyfully participate in noisy games and active walks with the owner, but at the same time, in his absence, they are able to show patience and calmness, without destroying everything they can reach from boredom. If the owner is busy, this pet will not become obsessively spinning under their feet, and obediently wait for a walk, and even then it will give free rein to its energy.

Therefore, even the smallest members of this family need to instill good manners in time, showing a certain firmness and not indulging their whims. Do not forget that the small and dwarf spitz, like many small dogs, are not aware of their miniature size and will obey only those who have managed to win their respect.

The small size can also become an indirect cause of problems in the pet's behavior: often the owners, considering their crumbs harmless and not dangerous to others, do not attach importance to his education and, as a result, receive an uncontrollable, capricious, stupidly barking creature attacking passersby and other dogs and children.

This video from our channel in youtube demonstrates the behavior of German Spitz in the apartment at the meeting.

All varieties of the breed are quite jealous and emotional, with unfamiliar dogs, they often squabble, but thanks to their innate curiosity and devotion, it is not so difficult to raise them.

Training and education

The hero of this article is endowed with playful, cheerful disposition and quick wits. These qualities give the wearer the opportunity to a wide selection of the various types of training available to these dogs. Among them are agility, the general course of training, obedience, dog frisbee, pitch and go (Pitch & Go), search and rescue service, for the little German Spitz is available the first time learning the circus tricks.

If desired, and the purposefulness of the owner, the spitz is on the shoulder even learning the shepherd's business (of course, as a sports entertainment).

Sometimes these dogs are used in kanis therapy, but not all members of the breed can become a therapist, as the main condition for training is the complete absence of aggression, and they are not always loyal to strangers.

Care and grooming

The thick coat of the German Spitz requires careful care of her. Daily brushing should become a habit for the wearer. It is necessary to bathe a dog every two months, but, if necessary, it is possible more often.

The dog should be taught water procedures in the bathroom from a very young age, as a result this procedure will be perceived as a common thing.

It is categorically contraindicated cutting machine, and when shearing wool with scissors to give it the shape of the bottom layer should remain intact. The undercoat of this breed grows very slowly, and its violation may well spoil the quality of the entire coat for a long time.

Family life

By virtue of a dedicated and sociable character, the German Spitz is great for both a lonely person and for life in a large family. It will become an indispensable companion in games for children, provided that they are treated with care. Pet does not tolerate rudeness, and obsessive attention of kids can annoy him.

With other animals in the family, this breed does not always get along peacefully. Although they do not possess the hunter’s extreme instinct, which poses a threat to small animals in the house, the snooty nature can cause conflicts. This is very well illustrated by the video posted just above the article.

Being rather arrogant personalities, they do not want to be content with secondary roles, they are jealous of their owners, and they can venture to clarify relations even with a larger dog. The task of the owner is timely education of all animals in the house in order to avoid conflicts in the future.

Despite the energetic nature, the German Spitz does not need great physical exertion. But with pleasure will take part in daily morning jogs with the owner or outdoor games in the fresh air.

Representatives of small species of breed can even make a company for an elderly person. However, this does not mean that a walk can be replaced with a rest on a bench ─ the presence of active games is more obligatory the shorter the walk.

Pomeranets is the only species in the breed bred as a decorative dog. Like all dwarf breeds, it has certain health problems associated with miniature sizes. Despite this, the Miniature Spitz is a fairly strong breed, able to fulfill the role of a companion and win prizes in available sports.

К сожалению, этого нельзя сказать о двух других недавно появившихся псевдотипах карликового шпица, не соответствующих требованиям FCI, ─ "кукольном" и "медвежьем". Такие щенки пользуются все большим спросом в качестве "живой игрушки", так как к участию в выставках они не допускаются, а слабое здоровье исключает занятия спортом.

Their main feature is sweet-short attractive faces, causing delight in people far from cynology, and, on the contrary, genuine horror in all who care about the fate of the breed.

The willingness of dishonest breeders to increase the demand for toy dogs led to pronounced signs of dwarfism in pomeranians, that is, to put it bluntly, to the degeneration of the breed.

These features include too bulging eyes, an open parietal spring, and a flattened, unreasonably shortened muzzle, which makes it difficult for the animal to breathe, which causes inevitable harm to the animal's cardiovascular and nervous system.

The desire to create an image of "super-adorable fuzzy" has not bypassed breeders of standard show-class pomerania: dogs with certain features that are not quite conforming to the standard can be more and more often found on exhibition rings.

Typical diseases

In general, the German Spitz is a healthy and strong breed, resistant to severe weather conditions.

The characteristic diseases include rashes and irritation on the skin in the hot season, which is a consequence of the presence of thick dense coat and is prevented with the help of high-quality grooming.

Large breeds have dysplasia of the hip joints.

Most of the diseases that small pomeranian dogs are subject to are characteristic of the main mass of dogs:

problems with teeth during their shift (dairy often need removal),
formation of tartar,
increased tearing of the eyes (mainly in individuals with an excessively short muzzle,
joint defects,
obesity,
tracheal collapse.

In order to avoid acquiring a puppy with a mass of congenital diseases, you need to pay special attention to the state of health of its parents and not to buy a dog from random people under any pretext.

Each country has its own opinion

Immediately, we note the fact that the German miniature and Pomeranian Spitz in some countries are distinguished into separate breeds. These include England, America and Canada. In Russia and Germany, oranges are considered a dwarf variety of German Spitz.

The standard of the American Kennel Club can be found in the article "Standard of the breed Pomeranian Spitz". Next, we describe the structure and characteristics of the classic small (Kleinspitz), medium (mittelpitz) and miniature (Miniature Spitz) German Spitz, officially adopted by the FCI and RKF.

The description of the standard features of small group Spitz includes the structure:

We will also talk about the coat, color, size and temperament of these dogs.

Square - correct, rectangle - deviation

Spitz dogs have a dry and strong bones without feeling rude, which adds harmony to their physique. Dog muscles should be well trained. Excessive lightness or roughness of the backbone, weak muscles or a massive body structure are considered deviations from the norm.

Small representatives of the German Spitz breed have a square torso format with an index of 100 by 103, that is, the length of the body is almost equal to the height at the withers. Vices are considered short or strongly elongated format.

Torso head

If you look at the head of the animal from above, its wedge-shaped structure will be noticeable: the wide back part is strongly narrowed to the nose. The dogs of a small group of German Spitz have a pronounced stop - the transition from a slightly prominent forehead to the muzzle. But the occipital protuberance is barely visible. The head is kept of small length and a high muscular neck. The graceful muzzle of the animal is thin, but not sharp, thanks to its neat and round nose.

The German miniature spitz, like the small one, has an elongated face. The ratio of its length to the length of the head is two to four, whereas in the middle spitz it is two to three. There are no wrinkles or folds on the lips that are flush with the jaws. In dogs with brown color, the nose and lips are brown, the rest are black.

Weights are considered to be weighted or round, in the shape of an apple, a head that is not overgrown with a crown, a too short or elongated neck with a low supply, bulging cheekbones, an excessively prominent forehead, an imperceptible foot, a snub nose, a pointed muzzle, partially painted nose or lips.

Small eyes, sharp ears, strong teeth

Neat spitz ears have a triangle shape and a high standing position. The distance between them is relatively small. Huge, drooping, distant from each other or rounded at the end of the ears are considered a defect.

Obliquely standing almond-shaped eyes of a dog have a dark shade and fervent expression. Incredulity in them appears when a stranger approaches. The color of the eyelids, as in the case of the nose, depends on the color of the coat. Undesirable barely noticeable, huge, falling out, falling down or round eyes.

An animal should have a complete set of strong teeth - 42 pieces, however, for small and dwarf species of the breed, two or three premolars are allowed to be absent. All dogs have a scissor bite. Because of the structure of the muzzle, the German dwarf spitz can have a direct bite. But overshot and snacks are unacceptable.

With a flat back and a round tail

On the wide and short back is a straight line of the spine. A slack back or bulging spine is not allowed. The croup of the dog should be slightly sloping, but not straight or low.

An integral part of the spitz's silhouette is a well-pubescent tail, twisting in a ringlet and tight to the back. The tail immediately rises up where the line of the back ends, not higher and not lower. A straight, bald, hanging to the side or down tail is a serious flaw.

The rounded ribs give the dog’s chest a wide and relatively spacious look. However, they should not make a barrel-shaped form of the chest. The belly of the spitz is tight, straight, without any extra subcutaneous fat. Sagging belly indicates obesity. We can not allow and strongly drawn in the abdomen.

Free and easy gait

Widely placed straight front limbs clearly substituted under the body of the spitz. Shoulders move 90 degrees from the shoulder blades, pasterns from the vertical - 20 degrees. And the shoulders and pasterns should not have the curvature. The hind legs are parallel to each other and covered with fluffy "pants". They slightly protrude behind the seat line. Knees should not be turned in or out, and hock joints should be close.

Rounded paws of dogs resemble cats with their accuracy, close to each other fingers, rough pads and black strong claws. Sometimes spitz puppies are born with dewclaws. In this case, they must be removed in the first three to six days from the birth of the baby.

Thanks to well-developed muscles, the animal can move freely and easily, springingly pushing off from the ground. Must or wag a dog should not.

Fluffy business card

Spitz-dogs have long hair. Straight and stiff to touch hairs are located tightly to each other. Soft undercoat allows the guard coat to stand upright. The neck and chest of the dog are covered with a fluffy "collar". The longest coat is on the tail. There should be no parting on the back, curvature or waves, as well as short wool.

The dog's skin is tightly wrapped around its body, not forming plumb lines or folds.

Colorful wonder of small stature

Spitz small group differ from each other in height at withers and weight. These parameters can be found in the table:

In the growth allowed deviations of no more than two centimeters in any direction, however, for a miniature Spitz growth below 18 centimeters is undesirable. The weight of the dog must match its size.

The dogs of this breed have a rich palette of coat colors. They can be painted in one color: white, sable (blue), black, cream, brown and ginger of different intensity. There is also a gamma of two or three colors, - the spots of the above-mentioned shades are evenly distributed on the main white color.

The most rare and expensive spitz is considered white. This is due to the fact that to bring a pure white color is extremely difficult.

White dogs should not have a beige coating on their coat, especially in the area of the ears. The brown or black Spitz is unacceptable spot on the chest white. The zona-gray should have “glasses” on the muzzle.

Loyal guard and great companion

Spitz - energetic, moderately excitable dogs. Like all guards, they have the courage and vigilance, telling loudly about the approach of a stranger. Animals are infinitely devoted to their master, they catch every word, love to please and can adapt to the rhythm of his life.

By strangers are suspicious, sometimes they attack large dogs. Learn more about the habits and character of the representatives of this breed can be in the article "Description of small German Spitz".

Deviations from the standard are considered such manifestations of temperament and behavior, as cowardice, aggressiveness, timidity, excessive excitability, loss of coordination of movements, lethargy.

Bright sexual coloring

Looking at the Spitz, you can immediately understand who he is - a dog or a bitch, because this breed has a pronounced sexual type. Imposing boys look manly, their fur is longer and thicker than girls. Also bitches a little smaller than the male.

Male animals should have two developed testicles completely descended into the scrotum.

If your dog has any deviations from the norm, it does not mean that he cannot become a good friend and loyal companion to you. Of course, the dog may not get to the exhibition, but because of this, it will not stop loving and respecting you.

You can tell in the comments about the features of your pet.

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German Spitz breed standard

Breed standard: German Spitz has the FCI standard No. 97, which was adopted on January 25, 2013. Date of publication of the previously existing standard: March 5, 1998

Breed classification: Group 5. Spitz and primitive dogs. Section 4. European Spitz. Without workers test.

Breed features: When describing the German Spitz breed, it should be noted that all its varieties have a great external similarity. So, the head of these dogs is medium in size, wide at the back and tapering towards the nose. The muzzle is proportional to the skull. Nose small, round, black.

Dogs with brown hair are brown. The eyes are round or slightly oblong, of medium size, slightly set obliquely, dark.

The eyelids are black or dark brown, depending on the color of the animal. Ears standing, highly planted, pointed, always in an upright position. Jaws sufficiently developed, scissors bite. The neck is wide, without dewlap, with a convex nape.

The tail is lush, agile, lying flat on the back, sometimes with a double loop on the end. The croup is short, wide.

The chest is deep, its front part is well developed. Belly tucked up. Limbs with strong bones, strong, muscular. Paws are rounded, miniature, with dense pads.

Wool color, height and weight of German Spitz

The German Spitz's coat is double, long, straight, with a short, dense undercoat, thick on the body and the back side of the front legs. On the head, ears, the front side of the limbs is short and dense. The colors of the German Spitz can be different, for each of its varieties has its own shade of wool.

Great German Spitz or Wolfspitz, or Keeshond has a zona-gray color.

Height at withers: 43 - 55 cm.

Weight: 25-30 kg.

The middle spitz or mittlespitz can be white, black, brown, orange, zone-gray. Other wool colors are allowed.

Height at withers: 30 - 39 cm

Weight: 11 kg.

Small or Kleinspitz not more than 29 cm tall. Weight: 8 - 10 kg. For him the same shades of wool are inherent, as well as for the little spitz.

Miniature or Pomeranian, or Toy Pomeranian, or Miniature Spitz, 18 - 22 cm high. The fur shades are the same as those of other representatives of the breed.

When choosing a black German Spitz, you should know that its wool should be of uniform color, without any other shades. If there are beige spots on the paws or other parts of the body, it means that it is not a black, but a black and tan spitz.

Black and white German Spitz, photo puppies

At puppy age, coat color is peculiar to change. Black at birth puppy after 2 months can change color. If during the change of puppy hair for an adult. Nose, eyelids and lips remain black, which means that its color will not change. In a large spitz only at the age of 3, it acquires a permanent shade.

A German Spitz dog of white color (photo above) is the most expensive among other species of breed, since it is rather difficult to breed. For example, when crossing two white oranges there is a risk of getting a dog larger than what is prescribed in the standard. Therefore, it is necessary to gradually reduce them with other colors, among which is orange, which gives a faint creamy tint, which in turn must be gradually withdrawn. The result should be a pure white shade of wool without impurities and extraneous shades.

It is worth noting that the cream puppies of the German Spitz are born white, which confirms the following photo:

You can not expect that as adults, they will remain white, because their color is likely to change. Usually the change of color occurs within 8 to 12 weeks. Determine whether the coat color is white by looking at the color behind the ears. If in this zone it is cream or yellowish, it means that the dog will not be white, and most likely will turn orange, brown or light yellow.

The character of the German (Pomeranian) Spitz and photos of dogs

By the nature of the German Spitz friendly, friendly, affectionate, betrayed to his master. There is no anger, aggression, intrusiveness in them. They treat strangers slightly wary, but they are not afraid of strangers. These animals, despite their compact size, become excellent watchmen and guards of household goods.

This photo clearly shows the external features of the small German Spitz.

As a rule, dogs of the German Spitz breed are pets of the family, which is caused by many positive features in their character. These animals are affectionate, sociable, friendly, cheerful, active, resolute and very brave. They become excellent friends and companions for all households to whom they quickly get used and become attached. In addition, dogs can easily adapt to new living conditions, easily adapt to the rhythm of their owners. With elderly owners they behave quietly and calmly, with young ones they are more active. They love to get the attention of others and try to attract him to him in all possible ways: loud barking, jumping and jogging around family members. However, such pets will never bother and if they feel that there is no need for their presence, they will go to their corner.

By nature, a German Spitz dog is self-sufficient, intelligent and loyal. The animal is easy to train, quickly remembers even the most complex commands, and strives to conquer new heights.

Favorite activities of representatives of this breed are long walks in the fresh air (without a leash), running, playing, swimming. That is why they are ideal for people with an active lifestyle, who love to travel, relax outside the city, etc.

The behavior of the German dwarf (miniature) Spitz and their photos

Although the German Spitz (see photo above) is a breed of small dogs, it has excellent hearing and guard qualities. Anticipating the danger begins to bark loudly and loudly. Compact dimensions help the animal to move quickly and smoothly. Those who will carefully watch the dog for a walk will certainly get the impression that it does not run, but seems to hover above the ground.

If small children live in the house, for them the dog becomes a nanny, looking after them. The behavior of the German dwarf (miniature) Spitz is different patience and balance, so if the child in the game will hurt the dog, the spitz will not bite and roar at him. In no case should this be used, on the contrary, it is necessary to carefully monitor that the children do not harm the animal.

Good-natured pets have a fine, sensitive mind and remember their attitude to themselves, which should be taken into account and educated with patience, affection, perseverance, but in no case be rude and aggressive to puppies, and later to an adult dog.

It is also interesting that due to their quick-wittedness, speed and agility the German Spitz began to act in circus performances, showing tricks and various funny numbers.

In describing the German Spitz, it is worth noting that such a pet will be playful and mobile almost until old age. At a very mature age, he becomes slower and calmer, more and more often seeking solitude. It is more difficult for him to climb the stairs, get out of the "lying" position, perform any, even the simplest trick. The nature of the dog also changes over time. The old pet is more anxious, harder endures separation from the owner, when left alone, begins to howl, whine or bark. With a lack of attention is locked in itself.

German Spitz

It is a compact square-format dog with a wide chest and muscular hind legs. Длинная прямая шерсть с густым подшерстком не скрывает, а подчеркивает гармоничное сложение немецкого шпица. Шерсть на голове более короткая, на шее роскошная грива, задние ноги в пышных штанах.

Средняя высота собаки в холке составляет от 18 до 35,5 см. Морда вытянутая, уши маленькие, треугольные, с острыми кончиками, поставлены высоко и близко друг к другу.

чисто белый,
black, black and tan,
creamy, creamy-sable,
dark brown,
orange-sable,
Particolor (two-color) with basic white.

Good health, a sharp mind and a balanced character are the main features of the German Spitz. In the breed there are several varieties that differ in growth and color.

Wolfspitz (keeshond)

This is the largest representative of the group, also known as the Dutch Wolf Spitz. Due to the expressive "wolf" color of these dogs can not be confused with other spitz-like.

Wolfspitz, keeshond

Distinctive features of keeskhond:

Strong addition and large size: medium height at the withers / weight of males - 42- 47 cm, 20 kg, bitches - 40-45 cm 16 kg, respectively,
Zone-gray color with a black "mask" on the face, black ears and black tip of the tail,

3. Life expectancy of 16-17 years.

In Germany and Holland, a Wolfschitz is used as a watchman and herding dog. Intelligent and attentive, these dogs are wonderful companions, to strangers show wariness and aggression.

Grosspitz

(big spitz)

The second largest spitz is as strong and muscular as kesshond. Some of the drawbacks of the breed include the gullibility and good-natured attitude of these dogs to strangers.

Distinctive features of the fender:

increase in withers from 40 to 46 cm, weight from 17 to 20 kg,
uniform white, black or brown colors,
in males hair decorating is longer,
life expectancy of 14-16 years.

Grosshpitz - the oldest and most rare variety of German Spitz. The average cost of a puppy in the nurseries of the world is 700 - 1000 euros. The most expensive dogs are painted white.

Mittelspitz (middle spitz)

The middle spitz is a typical representative of the fox type. Distinctive features of the little spitz:

height in withers males 32 -35 cm, bitches 29-30 cm, weight 10-12 kg,
colors: monophonic white, black, brown, "wolf", orange, cream, spotted, sable,
life expectancy of 12-15 years.

Mittenspitz

Mittelshpits - fervent and energetic dog, a great guard, alert and wary, intolerant of strangers.

Kleinspitz (small spitz)

This is a miniature dog with a brave heart and excellent guard qualities, thanks to which Kleinspitz is called “watchman - bell”.

Kleinspitz

Distinctive features of Kleinspitz:

1. Growth in withers from 23 to 29 cm, weight 5-10 kg.

2. Colors: white, black, brown, orange, “wolf”, cream, spotted and others.

3. Life expectancy of 14-15 years.

Due to the similar colors, the Kleinspitz can be confused with a young or thinner mittpitz.

Features of the content of the German Spitz

The playful disposition and natural curiosity of the German Spitz can cause a puppy injury, so the house must be prepared for the meeting of the pet. The wires are removed from the floor, the niches under the furniture are temporarily closed. As a bed you can buy a soft house or a mattress.

Moving dogs with luxurious coat require compliance with the mandatory rules of care:

regular brushing is necessary, especially during the molting period,
It is not recommended to cut the German Spitz very shortly, the dog's coat at all times of the year provides the body with thermoregulation,
daily inspection and cleaning as necessary require the eyes, ears and teeth,
energetic dogs need free space, active games, walking in the fresh air,
medium and large Spitz dogs are often kept in insulated street enclosures.

Exhibition copies require bathing with the use of special cosmetics and regular grooming.

What to feed the German Spitz

Whether the pet feeds natural food or ready-made feeds is decided by each owner individually. But you can not mix rations, you can alternate: morning - natural food, dry in the evening. If the choice is made in favor of "drying", it should be at least premium-class feed, the natural diet of the German Spitz includes the following products:

- lean meat and fish, better boiled,

- cereals: buckwheat, rice (for dogs in enclosures in winter they cook and millet porridge),

- dairy products with low fat content: kefir, cottage cheese, yogurt, unsweetened yogurt,

- steamed or finely chopped vegetables: carrots, zucchini, pumpkin, salad,

- vitamins, selected according to the age and health of the dog.

A German Spitz puppy is fed 6 times a day, an adult dog 2 times a day, preferably at the same time. It has been observed that in case of food allergies, the most common cause is chicken or millet.

Diseases of German Spitz

Representatives of the ancient breed are naturally strong immunity, supported by a balanced diet and proper care. However, some diseases are characteristic of the German Spitz:

malocclusion when changing milk teeth, tartar,
problems with bones and joints, weak ligamentous apparatus (especially in small dogs),
dysbacteriosis in case of overfeeding, obesity in small varieties,
nanizm (dwarfism) - a congenital pathology caused by impaired pituitary development and poor production of growth hormone.

Timely vaccinations and preventive examinations will save the pet from health problems.

German spitz training

The intelligence and ingenuity of the German Spitz does not preclude training. The natural potential of the pet and the tendency to domination from early childhood must be directed in the right direction. German spitzs are happy to be trained and the learned commands are carried out without question.

Teams “Place”, “No”, “To me” puppy begin to train from 2-4 months. Special training and show teams require patience, special simulators and socialization of the dog.

Pomeranian spitz (synonyms: miniature spitz, dwarf spitz, miniature spitz)

Unlike German Spitz, oranges have a softer, “wadded” fur, which sheds little, and a short face. Depending on the size, there are 2 types of oranges:

small spitz: height at withers 23-29 cm, weight from 2 to 4.5 kg,
Miniature Spitz: growth of males from 18 to 22 cm, weight 1.8-2.3 kg, growth of bitches from 16 to 20 cm, weight 1.4-3 kg.

Today, there are 3 types of oranges, which differ only in the shape of the head and are identical in all other ways.

Oranges - "chanterelles" are the only ones that meet the standard. These are dogs with a highly elongated muzzle, almond-shaped eyes and narrow chin.

Fox type

Toy or doll type (baby doll)

Intermediate type with a shorter and wide muzzle, high lift, round, fairly wide apart eyes.

Toy or puppet type

Teddy bear

The most popular type of oranges with a completely round head, short, flattened and wide muzzle. The eyes of the “cubs” are close planted, and thanks to the thick hair on the cheekbones it seems that dogs have puffy cheeks. Due to the slightly raised lower jaw and the “snub-nosed” nose, dogs resemble a chow-chow or a little bear.

Unlike German Spitz, oranges have longer limbs, and wool, on the contrary, is shorter.

Allowable colors of oranges:

white,
black, black and tan, chocolate,
sable, cream, orange,
two-color.

At birth, all oranges look the same and only by the year can one understand what type of dog the dog belongs to. With the help of grooming a standard fox type orange, you can make it look like a “bear cub”.

The lifespan of the Pomeranian Spitz is from 12 to 15 years. Dogs of a bearish exterior with an excessively short muzzle are sometimes prone to pathologies of the heart and trachea, due to which they can live less.

Peculiarities of the Pomeranian Spitz

Dwarf Pomeranian Spitz - the perfect breed for home maintenance. Oranges from a puppy age are mobile and curious, for the first months the dogs remove wires, detergents from the zone of reach, close the gaps under the furniture and on the balcony. For the first time you can buy a playpen. Sleeps - beds and houses, maybe a few, toys are required. Care is as follows:

regular deworming and vaccinations,
combing at least once a week,
bathing no more than 1 time in 2-3 months,
brushing teeth 2-3 times a week,
ear hygiene 1 time per week
claws cut

Oranges are well accustomed to the tray, but this does not exclude walks in the fresh air. In rainy and cold weather, the dog is dressed overalls.

What to feed Pomeranian Spitz

Balanced nutrition - the guarantee of health of a small pet. There are three ways to feed an orange:

small breeds of dry premium dog food, super premium class and holistic,
natural food: lean meat and fish, raw or steamed vegetables with vegetable oil, cereals (buckwheat, oatmeal), unsweetened dairy products,
Combined diet: in one meal dry food, the other - natural food.

At first, the puppy is fed according to the recommendation of the breeder, then a suitable diet is chosen, useful for the pet and convenient for the owners.

Diseases of the Pomeranian Spitz

Oranges are subject to a number of specific diseases peculiar to dogs of dwarf breeds:

metabolic disorders, hypothyroidism, obesity,
gastritis, gastric ulcer, intestinal obstruction,
pathology of the respiratory system,
subluxation of the knee joint, weak ligamentous apparatus,
tearing.

Prophylactic vaccinations, regular hygiene procedures and proper nutrition significantly reduce the risk of possible diseases.

Pomeranian and other animals

In relation to other dogs, oranges often exhibit natural dominance and are aggressive, especially towards males. Cats and dwarf spitz get along fine, if the owners do not give the animal a reason to be jealous of each other.

It is worth noting that some canine federations (for example, the ICF) consider Pomeranian as a type of German Spitz, others (for example, AKC) distinguish it into a separate breed.

Japanese spitz (Nihon Supittsu)

Breed of dogs - companions, bred in Japan from the white German Spitz. The Japanese Spitz is recognized by all canine associations other than the AKC (due to its similarity with the American Eskimo dog). Decorative breed is valued primarily because of the luxurious snow-white wool.

Japanese spitz

Distinctive features of the Japanese spitz:

harmonious physique, males more stocky, bitches more elegant,
Ratio of growth and body length 10: 11,
height in the withers of males no more than 40 cm, weight up to 10 kg, growth of bitches up to 35 cm, weight about 6-7 kg,
fluffy collar,
pointed muzzle
high set ears of triangular shape
small, slightly slanting almond-shaped eyes,
high tail set on his back, but not twisted into a ring.

A rare trait for a group of breeds - Japanese spitz-dogs are extremely taciturn and bark only in case of strong anxiety.

Peculiarities of keeping Japanese Spitz

The snow-white coat of dogs repels dirt and does not require special care. Full molt occurs once a year, thick fur requires regular brushing with a puhoderka. Bathing 1 time in 2 months with the use of products containing natural oils. As they grow, nails are neatly trimmed.

A mobile dog needs to walk for at least half an hour, in the morning and in the evening, it is good if it is possible to walk the pet on the plot without a leash.

The diet of the Japanese Spitz

Having decided to feed the pet with dry food, preference is given to super-premium class products for small breeds of dogs. Natural diet should be balanced. Raw lean meat, boiled chicken or fish is added to buckwheat or rice.

Meat can be given with boiled vegetables, finely chopped or grated. Unsweetened dairy products are welcome: cottage cheese and kefir, give an egg 2 times a week. Periodically add fish oil to porridge. The diet of an adult dog - 2-3 times a day.

Japanese Spitz Diseases

Japanese spitz-dogs are not subject to dangerous genetic pathologies, however, a number of diseases inherent in the breed have been established:

dislocation of the patella,
lacrimation on the background of an allergic reaction or stress.

With decent care, proper nutrition and education, the Japanese spitz live from 10 to 16 years.

Other species of spitz-shaped family

The American Eskimo Spitz (American Eskimo dog) has an exterior similar to the Japanese Spitz, but their white fur sometimes has a cream shade.

The Finnish Spitz in Russia is better known under the name of the Karelian-Finnish husky and is used as a versatile breed for hunting most game species.

The Greenland dog is a strong, enduring animal, the oldest riding breed in Greenland.

Karelian bear husky is from Finland, it is a very independent and stubborn dog, hardy and unpretentious, an excellent big-game hunter.

Akita Inu or Japanese Akita dog - a large representative of the Spitz-like, used as a guard and hunter.

Samoyed is one of the names of the oldest breed of dogs with beautiful appearance and mysterious origin.

Eurasier is a breed of dog from Germany, whose ancestors were Wolfschitz, black and red chow-chow.

Volpino Italiano or Italian Spitz comes from Florence - a companion dog, capable of being a watchful guard.

The Korean Chindo is a national treasure of South Korea, a devoted and courageous dog used as a hunting, guard, and also in search and rescue service.

The attitude of the German mini spitz to strangers

In relation to strangers, the German mini spitz shows mistrust and wariness. When meeting with strangers often focuses on the behavior of the owner. He is bold, resolute and self-confident, thanks to which his makings of the watchman are in no way inferior to large and strong dogs. Sometimes on walks fighting spitzs get involved in fights with large guard rocks.

So, this dog is suitable for people of any age, character and lifestyle. She gets along well with other pets, does not require large expenditures on her maintenance, but she will need to pay a lot of time and attention.

You can learn more interesting information about the habits and character of the German Spitz by watching this video:

History of the German Spitz breed (small, medium and large)

As mentioned in the article, the German Pomeranian Spitz (see photo above) is a rather old breed that has existed for over 2500 years. This is evidenced by the images of dogs on plates and antique dishes. Previously, such people were kept only by ordinary people, as they guarded them no worse than big dogs, and ate significantly less than them. Of course, it was very beneficial to keep them. In addition, the dog Spitz was intended to protect the estates and property, plantations with different plantations, accompany the shepherds, protect livestock from predatory animals, and just for the entertainment of the owners.

The modern history of the German Spitz breed (both small, medium and large) began only in the 18th century, when fashion for these dogs appeared among aristocrats. At that time, Germany was divided into districts and each of them had its own work on breeding dogs of a certain color and size, now more attention was paid to their exterior. So, for example, in Krefeld, Achense and Düsseldorf bred mainly Wolfspitz, in Württemberg, black and brown dogs, in Pomerania - miniature. It is noteworthy that the miniature German Spitz breed, the photo of which is presented in the gallery after this review, was the favorite pet of Empress Catherine, Mozart, Michelangelo and other great people.

After some time, the dogs spread widely throughout Europe and became favorites of the nobility. White German Spitz was in great demand, a little later - orange and brown. In the 19th century, the breed appeared in America and interested local breeders. In the late 19th century, the English Spitz Club was created, where exhibitions of these dogs began to be held. In 1891, the first breed standard was approved. The dogs were divided into 2 categories: dogs, weighing up to 2.5 kg, were attributed to the first, and their weight to the second was more than 2.5 kg. Today, the Pomeranian spitz, bred in America, are considered the best in the world. They differ in compact size, harmonious physique, strong bones, have fast, accurate movements. Their thick hair can be in different colors of saturated tones.

In Germany, the breed gained its second popularity in 1899, when the German Spitz fan, Charles Kammerer, widely known among dog breeders, sent letters to all admirers of such dogs, in which he offered to unite and support its development. In 1900, an organizational meeting was held in Frankfurt am Main, as a result of which the German Spitz club was founded, the Breeding Book and the breeding and registration guide were created.

In France, the German middle-spitz was bred for a long time, which at that time had an external resemblance to dogs from the past, that is, they resembled their ancestors with pointed and long faces, had thick hair, but without a dense undercoat. Lush "collar" they were missing. Interestingly, modern large and small German Spitz similar to the French, but have a more compact physique and correct movements.

В Испании разводились немецкие карликовые шпицы, ставшие любимыми питомцами испанских женщин – аристократок, которые из-за традиций инбридинга не отличались особой красотой, поэтому окружали себя слугами-карликами, а также считавшимися в те времена малопривлекательными собачками, и на их фоне казались более красивыми.

В Дании и Нидерландах крупные, малые немецкие шпицы и кеесхонды проживали на баржах и кораблях, где ловили крыс, мышей, охраняли имущество.

В начале 20 века породу разделили на 3 группы, каждой из которых был присущ свой размер: большие – 45 см в холке, средние – ниже 38 см, карликовые – от 25 см. Since then, dogs have become even more interesting, and the number of their fans has increased significantly. The world wars that swept Europe in the 20th century reduced the number of Spitz, some of which were exported to Eastern Europe.

In Russia, the breed appeared in the late 19th century. In each region, dogs were distinguished by their exterior and behavior. Only wealthy people could breed them, therefore small dogs personified “bourgeois luxury” in our country. At the beginning of the 20th century, exhibitions began to be created in large cities, where about fifty German Spitz gathered. However, they were soon supplanted by other foreign breeds. In the 21st century, the German Pomeranian dog found its former popularity in Russia, which was mainly due to the new importation of dogs into the country that meet modern international standards.

Are there any differences between the German and Pomeranian spitz?

Not everyone knows that the German and Pomeranian Spitz are the same breed and there is no difference between them. The fact is that Pomerania is a provincial city in Germany, where representatives of this breed were more popular. Today Pomeranian is called a small Spitz.

A clever and devoted dog German Spitz is presented in the photo in our gallery:

Interesting facts about German Spitz

German spitz have a pronounced leadership skills, for which breeders in their environment call them "Napoleon". If you do not pay attention to the upbringing and training at an early age, overly excitable, disobedient dogs will grow out of puppies, attacking strangers.

The dog's thick hair is never completely trimmed, but it is regularly shortened on the ears, paws and in the groin area.

Another interesting fact about the German Spitz - their wool (in particular, the wool of the Wolfspitz - the largest representatives of the breed) does not have a characteristic canine smell.

German spitz care, cutting and trimming

Care of the German spitz should be carried out from the first days of his life. For a pet, you should take a place where he can rest and quietly spend his time without disturbing family members. At the age of 2 months, it can be accustomed to walking in the open air, from 15 to 20 minutes. per day, gradually increasing the time. To wash the paws, brushing your teeth, water procedures, combing is also taught from an early age.

In order for the dog's coat to be thick and beautiful, you need to take care of it regularly. As the dog matures, the coat is constantly changing. Puppies are born with short, smooth hair that rises within a few weeks. After 2 months, the undercoat grows, a collar is formed. By 3 months the puppy becomes like a fluffy tangle, after which periods of molting begin. With proper and systematic care of wool in the house does not happen. This is due to the fact that the dense undercoat firmly holds itself and guard hairs. For combing using a special brush and comb. The comb combed out on long wool matted balls and spines of plants, adhered to the dog for a walk. In addition, the comb fluffs the hairs, which makes the appearance of the animal very spectacular. The brush is suitable for daily brushing. This procedure is performed starting from the back or chest of the animal, gradually moving forward and dividing the wool into strands in order to speed up and facilitate the work. The tail is combed out last, starting at its base. Undercoat combed out only during periods of molting.

Grooming German Spitz is performed only if it does not spoil the appearance of the pet. Trimming is needed to maintain a neat-looking dog and get rid of shreds of wool. It is enough to do it once a week. On the tail, the wool should not be cut too short; it will lose its inherent luxury. On the paws I trim matted shreds, slightly trim the back and sides.

Special attention when trimming is given to the processing of the ears. The length of the hairs on the inner edges should not exceed 0.6 cm, on the outer edges - 1.2 cm. For a safe and accurate trimming, use small nail scissors. In auricles long hairs are plucked.

Many German mini spitz owners mistakenly believe that they need to be washed often. In fact, the dog needs bathing only in the event of pollution, or before the show. After washing, the wool is carefully rubbed with a towel, and then dried under a stream of a hair dryer. To maintain cleanliness, it is enough to wipe the paws of the animal every time after walking.

In order for the German miniature spitz to look well-groomed, as in the photo below, it is important to keep track of its nails:

Overgrown nails are very noticeable and spoil the overall look of the dog. They are removed with a clipper, and then polished with a saw. This "manicure" should be done 1 time in 2 months.

Feeding German Spitz: what to feed the dog?

How and what to feed the German Spitz, so that the dog will keep in good physical shape as long as possible, and its wool will be beautiful, strong and shiny? Puppies need to be fed 3-4 times a day, making up the right diet. An adult pet is enough to feed 2 times a day. It is best to give food at the same time, leaving so much in the cup that the dog eats it completely. If, after eating, the dog licks the cup, increase the dosage of food, if it leaves the food, reduce it.

To feed German Spitz was useful, it is important to include in the diet of boiled and raw meat (beef, lamb, poultry, horse meat). It is also necessary to give cottage cheese, eggs, vegetables and fruits. Milk is better to replace fermented milk products. Before you begin to add in food vitamin and mineral supplements, you need to consult with a specialist.

Looks like a small German Spitz breed in the photo below: