German Spitz
Also known as: German : Deutscher Spitz
The German Spitz is a small to medium-sized dog breed originating from Germany. The German Spitz comes from Germany. Individual German Spitzs vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- Germany
- Other names
- German : Deutscher Spitz
About the German Spitz
The German Spitz is a small to medium-sized dog breed originating from Germany. It comes in various sizes and colors, including Toy, Klein, Mittel, and Groß.
Overview
The German Spitz ( German : Deutscher Spitz ) is a breed of spitz -type dogs from Germany . It is considered a single breed, with five distinct varieties based on size and colour: the Wolfsspitz/ Keeshond , the Giant Spitz or Großspitz, the Medium Spitz or Mittelspitz, the Miniature Spitz or Kleinspitz and the Pomeranian or Zwergspitz ("Dwarf Spitz").
History
The earliest mentions of these spitz dogs in German literature date from AD 1450. In 1750, Count Eberhand zu Sayre Buffon wrote in his National history of quadrupeds that spitz dogs were the ancestor of all German breeds at that time. German Spitz dogs were originally kept on farms for a number of roles including herding and guarding . As the centuries progressed some lines were bred to be smaller for other duties and eventually as small companion dogs .
Pomeranian
The Pomeranian (or Zwergspitz, "Dwarf Spitz") is a small dog. It usually weighs 1.4 to 3 kg (3 to 7 lb) and according to the breed standard stands 18 to 24 cm (7 to 9 in) ; the coat can be white, black, brown, orange, grey-shaded and other colours.
Description
The German Spitz is a long-haired, double-coated breed of spitz-type dog; the five varieties vary significantly in size. The breed standard states all variants have a double coat with a long, straight outer coat and a short, thick, cotton-wool like undercoat.
Giant Spitz
The Giant Spitz is a medium-sized dog. It usually weighs 17 to 18 kg (37 to 40 lb) and according to the breed standard stands 43 to 55 cm (17 to 22 in) ; the coat can be white, black or brown. Black and brown animals can have white spots on the chest, paws and tip of tail.
Medium Spitz
The Medium Spitz is a medium-sized dog. It usually weighs 10.5 to 11.5 kg (23 to 25 lb) and according to the breed standard stands 30 to 40 cm (12 to 16 in) ; the coat can be white, black, brown, orange, grey-shaded and other colours - as well as mixes thereof.
Miniature Spitz
The Miniature Spitz is a small dog. It usually weighs 3 to 5 kg (7 to 11 lb) and according to the breed standard stands 24 to 30 cm (9 to 12 in) ; the coat can be white, black, brown, orange, grey-shaded and other colours.
Wolfsspitz/Keeshond
The Wolfsspitz/ Keeshond is the largest variety of Deutscher Spitz, standing some 43 to 55 cm (17 to 22 in) at the withers according to the breed standard . The coat is silver-grey with black shading. In some English-speaking countries – including Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States – the Keeshond and the German Wolfspitz are classed as two separate breeds; weights may be in the range 27 to 32 kg (60 to 70 lb) for the German Wolfspitz and 25 to 30 kg (55 to 65 lb) for the Keeshond. : 134
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the German Spitz?
The German Spitz is a small to medium-sized dog breed with a compact, muscular body and a wedge-shaped head. They have a double coat, with a soft undercoat and a harsh outer coat, and come in a variety of colors. They are known for their friendly, outgoing personalities and are highly intelligent.
Is the German Spitz a good family dog?
Yes, the German Spitz is generally a good family dog. They are friendly, outgoing, and highly social, making them a great fit for families with children. However, they do require regular exercise and training to prevent behavioral problems.
What health problems do German Spitzs have?
Like all breeds, the German Spitz is prone to certain health problems, including hip dysplasia, eye problems, and patellar luxation. They are also prone to obesity, which can lead to a range of other health issues. Regular veterinary care and a healthy diet can help prevent or manage these problems.
How much does a German Spitz puppy cost?
The cost of a German Spitz puppy can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodlines. On average, you can expect to pay between $500 and $2,000 for a puppy from a reputable breeder. It's also important to consider the cost of spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and microchipping.
Where do German Spitzs come from?
The German Spitz comes from Germany. The breed developed there before spreading to dog fanciers worldwide.
Related breeds
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the German Spitz, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.