German spitz dogs comprise five separate breeds that the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) groups under a single standard, but with differences for each race. The breeds included in this group are:
- Wolf-type Spitz or Keeshond
- Large Spitz
- Medium Spitz
- Small Spitz
- Dwarf or Pomeranian Spitz
All of these races are virtually identical, except for the size and color of the fur on some of them. Although the FCI groups all these breeds into a single standard and considers them to be of German origin, the Keeshond and the Pomeranian are considered by other organizations as breeds with their own standards. According to other canine societies, the Keeshond has Dutch origin.
In this breed file on our site, we are going to focus on the large, medium and small spitz, but if you want to know everything about the Keeshond or the Pomeranian, do not hesitate to visit these articles as well.
Origin of the German spitz
The origins of the German Spitz are not well defined, but the most common theory is that this breed of dog is descended from Stone Age tundra dogs(Canis familiaris palustris Rüthimeyer), which was later recognized as "spitz of the lake communities", establishing itself as the oldest breed of dog in Central Europe. For this reason, a good number of later breeds come from this first one, which is classified as "primitive type" dogs, due to its origins and characteristics inherited from wolves, such as erect ears turned in front of the head, pointed snout, and a long tail placed on the back.
The spread of the breed in the Western world was made thanks to the preference of British roy alty for the German Spitz, who arrived to Great Britain in the baggage of Queen Charlotte, the wife of George III of England.
Physical Characteristics of the German Spitz
German Spitz are beautiful dogs that stand out for their beautiful coat. All spitz (large, medium and small) have the same morphology and, therefore, the same appearance. The only difference between these breeds is size and in some, color.
The German Spitz's head is medium-sized and wedge-shaped when viewed from above. It is like the head of a fox The naso-frontal depression (stop) can be marked, but it is not abrupt. The nose is round, small and black, except in brown dogs, where it is dark brown. The eyes are medium, elongated, oblique and dark. The ears are triangular, pointed, upright and set high.
The body is as long as its height at the withers, so it has a square profile. The back, loin and croup are short and strong. The chest is deep, while the abdomen is moderately tucked up. The tail is set high, medium and the dog carries it rolled up on the back. It is covered with abundant bushy hair.
The German Spitz's coat is made up of two layers of hair. The undercoat is short, dense, and woolly. The outer coat is made up of long, straight, parted hair Head, ears, front legs and feet have short, dense, velvety hair. The neck and shoulders have abundant mane.
Accepted colors for German Spitz are:
- Large Spitz. Black, brown or white.
- Medium Spitz. Black, taupe, white, orange, off-white, cream, sable-cream, sable-orange, tan black, or spotted.
- Small Spitz. Black, taupe, white, orange, off-white, cream, sable-cream, sable-orange, tan black, or spotted.
In addition to the differences in coloration between the different breeds of German Spitz, there are also differences in size. The sizes (height at the withers) accepted by the FCI standard are:
- Large Spitz. 46 ± 4 cm.
- Medium Spitz. 34 ± 4 cm.
- Small Spitz. 26 ± 3 cm.
German spitz character
Despite their differences in size, all German Spitzes share some basic temperament characteristics. These dogs are playful, alert, dynamic and very attached to their human families. They are also reserved with strangers and barkers, so they can be good watchdogs, although they are not good protection dogs.
When they are well socialized they can willingly tolerate unknown dogs and strange people, but they can be confrontational with dogs of the same sex. They usually get along very well with the other pets in the house, as well as with their humans.
Despite socialization, they are not usually good dogs for very young children. Their temperament is reactive, so they can nibble if mistreated. In addition, the small spitz and the Pomeranian are very small and fragile for the treatment of very young children. Instead, they make good companions for older children who know how to care for and respect a dog.
German spitz care
These German spitz are dynamic but can release their energies with daily walks and some play They can all adjust well to life in floors, but it is better if you have a small garden for the larger breeds (Large Spitz and Medium Spitz). Shorter breeds, like the little spitz, don't need a garden.
All of these breeds tolerate cold to temperate climates very well, but are not very tolerant of heat. Due to their protective fur they can live outside, but it is better if they live inside the house since they need the company of their human families. The coat of either breed should be combed and brushed at least three times a day to keep it in good condition and free of tangles. In times of moulting it is necessary to brush it daily.
German spitz education
These dogs are Easy to train using positive training styles. Due to its dynamism, clicker training is presented as a good alternative to educate them. The main behavior problem with any of the German Spitz is barking, as they tend to be a very barking breed of dog.
German Spitz He alth
All German Spitz breeds are Generally he althy and do not have high incidences of canine disease. However, the most common diseases in this group of breeds, with the exception of the Pomeranian, are: hip dysplasia, epilepsy and skin problems.
