German Spitz

The German Spitz is a small breed known for its fox-like looks and cheerful nature.

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German Spitz Breed overview

German Spitz is a highly affectionate and energetic breed that requires a lot of attention and exercise to remain happy and healthy. They are great companions for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities and games. With proper socialization and training, they can be suitable for novice owners, although they may require effort and patience. They have a strong prey drive and may bark at strangers or other animals, making consistent training and management necessary. They are generally healthy but may be prone to certain health conditions, so regular check-ups with a veterinarian and proper diet and exercise are essential. German Spitz are a great choice for those looking for an active, loyal, and playful companion.

Height:
12-15 inches
Weight:
21-29 lbs
Life expectancy:
13-15 years

What To Expect When Caring For a German Spitz

Nutrition

Like any other breed, German Spitz needs a well-balanced diet to stay healthy.

Consulting with a veterinarian is recommended to determine the appropriate diet for the breed.

Exercise

German Spitz need daily exercise, such as walks or playing in the yard.

They also enjoy interactive games like fetch and hide-and-seek.

Grooming

The breed’s thick and fluffy coat requires frequent brushing and grooming to maintain its appearance.

Bathing should be done only when necessary to retain the coat’s natural oils.

Health

German Spitz is generally a healthy breed with no major health concerns.

Training

The breed's intelligence makes them generally easy to train.

Early socialization is recommended to avoid the dog becoming overly protective.

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German Spitz Traits & Characteristics

Their height ranges from 23–29 cm (9.1–11.4 in) at the withers.

The coat is dense, straight, and comes in a variety of colors, including white, black, brown, orange, and cream.

Affection

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

independent lovey-dovey

German Spitz is highly affectionate and loyal to their owners. They love to cuddle and be close to their humans, requiring a lot of attention and affection. They form close bonds with their owners and are eager to please.

Children

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

not suitable for kids great with kids

German Spitz can be great with children when socialized and trained appropriately. They have a high energy level and love to play, making them great companions for kids. However, due to their small size, supervision is required to prevent accidental injury.

Dogs

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

not dog friendly very dog friendly

German Spitz can be dog-friendly if socialized from an early age. They may be wary of strangers, making socialization important for proper behavior around other dogs. They have a strong prey drive and may chase smaller animals.

Strangers

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

German Spitz may be reserved or timid around strangers, making early socialization important for proper behavior. They may bark at unfamiliar people or animals, but with training, this behavior can be managed.

Playfulness

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

laid-back very playful

German Spitz are highly playful and energetic. They enjoy a wide range of games and activities, making them great companions for active families. They love to play, run, and explore.

Alertness

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

less alert very alert

German Spitz is highly alert and vigilant. They make excellent watchdogs and will bark to alert their owners of any potential threat. They have a strong prey drive and may chase after small animals.

Adaptability

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

less adaptable very adaptable

German Spitz is relatively adaptable to different living situations. They can do well in apartments or houses with a yard, as long as they receive adequate exercise and attention. They thrive when given a routine and consistent schedule.

Shedding

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

no shedding hair everywhere

German Spitz sheds moderately year-round and heavily during shedding seasons. Regular grooming, such as brushing and bathing, can help manage shedding. Those with allergies should be aware that German Spitz can trigger allergies.

Grooming

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

low maintenance high maintenance

German Spitz requires moderate grooming, including regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling of their thick fur. They may require occasional trimming around the ears and paw pads. They require regular checkups for dental hygiene and nail care.

Drooling

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

dry mouthed heavy drooler

German Spitz is not prone to drooling, making them ideal for those who prefer a clean-mouthed breed.

Size

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

very small very large

German Spitz is a small to medium-sized breed, weighing between 20 to 30 pounds and standing between 12 to 15 inches in height. They have a compact and sturdy build, making them well-suited for active families.

Energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

couch potato high energy

German Spitz have a high energy level and require a lot of physical activity and mental stimulation. They love to play, run, and explore, making them great companions for active families. Daily exercise and playtime is necessary for their well-being.

Exercise

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

low exercise needs high exercise needs

German Spitz require substantial daily exercise and playtime to remain happy and healthy. They have a high energy level and love to run, play, and explore. Regular exercise, such as walks, runs, and interactive games, can help maintain their physical health and mental well-being.

Working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

not suitable for working great for working

German Spitz can perform various jobs and tasks, including serving as watchdogs, hunting companions, or service animals. They excel in obedience training and responding to commands but may require additional training for specific jobs or duties.

Hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

German Spitz have a strong prey drive and can perform well in hunting and tracking activities. They have a keen sense of smell and great stamina, making them well-suited for hunting small game. However, early socialization and training is necessary to prevent inappropriate behavior around other animals.

Vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

low-drive high vigor

German Spitz have high levels of physical stamina and energy. They require a lot of exercise and playtime to maintain their physical health and mental well-being. They excel in agility and other active sports and activities that require speed, strength, and endurance.

Health

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

less healthy very healthy

German Spitz is generally healthy but may be prone to certain health issues, such as patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, and eye problems. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian and proper diet and exercise can help prevent or manage these conditions.

Obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

German Spitz may be prone to obesity if they do not receive adequate exercise and a healthy diet. Owners should monitor their weight and avoid overfeeding. Regular exercise and activity can help maintain their weight and prevent health issues.

Cold

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

German Spitz may require extra warmth and protection during cold weather due to their small size and thin coat. Owners should provide warm shelter and clothing, such as jackets or sweaters, when necessary.

Heat

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

German Spitz can tolerate moderate heat, although they may require extra cooling and hydration during hot weather. Owners should avoid leaving them in overheated environments and provide cool, shaded areas for rest and play.

Apartment

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

German Spitz can do well in an apartment if they receive adequate exercise and attention. However, they have a high energy level and require substantial daily exercise and playtime to be happy and healthy.

Wanderlust

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

less likely to wander very likely to wander

German Spitz may have a tendency to wander or roam, making supervision necessary in unsecured areas. They have a strong prey drive and may chase small animals, so owners should be mindful of their surroundings and keep them on a leash in public places.

Sensitivity

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

less sensitive very sensitive

German Spitz can be sensitive to criticism or negative reinforcement, making positive reinforcement and rewards-based training necessary. They respond well to consistency and patience and may become anxious or stressed when subjected to harsh training methods.

Separation

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

German Spitz may become anxious or destructive when left alone for long periods. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to remain happy and content when their owners are away. Crate training and consistent routines can help manage separation anxiety.

Barking

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

quiet very vocal

German Spitz can be prone to barking, especially when they feel anxious, stressed, or when they see unfamiliar people or animals. Training and socialization can help manage this behavior, but it may require consistent effort from owners.

Mental

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

German Spitz is highly intelligent and requires mental stimulation and engagement. They thrive when given challenging toys, games, and activities that exercise their minds. Interactive training and obedience classes can also stimulate them mentally.

Novice_owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

German Spitz can be suitable for novice owners with proper socialization, training, and care. They require a lot of attention and exercise, but with patience and consistency, they can make great companions for families or individuals.

Trainability

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

difficult to train easy to train

German Spitz can be stubborn and independent, making training a challenge. Positive reinforcement and consistency are necessary for success. They have a strong prey drive and may require additional training for recall and obedience around distractions.

Affection

independent lovey-dovey

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

German Spitz is highly affectionate and loyal to their owners. They love to cuddle and be close to their humans, requiring a lot of attention and affection. They form close bonds with their owners and are eager to please.

Children

not suitable for kids great with kids

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

German Spitz can be great with children when socialized and trained appropriately. They have a high energy level and love to play, making them great companions for kids. However, due to their small size, supervision is required to prevent accidental injury.

Dogs

not dog friendly very dog friendly

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

German Spitz can be dog-friendly if socialized from an early age. They may be wary of strangers, making socialization important for proper behavior around other dogs. They have a strong prey drive and may chase smaller animals.

Strangers

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

German Spitz may be reserved or timid around strangers, making early socialization important for proper behavior. They may bark at unfamiliar people or animals, but with training, this behavior can be managed.

Playfulness

laid-back very playful

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

German Spitz are highly playful and energetic. They enjoy a wide range of games and activities, making them great companions for active families. They love to play, run, and explore.

Alertness

less alert very alert

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

German Spitz is highly alert and vigilant. They make excellent watchdogs and will bark to alert their owners of any potential threat. They have a strong prey drive and may chase after small animals.

Adaptability

less adaptable very adaptable

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

German Spitz is relatively adaptable to different living situations. They can do well in apartments or houses with a yard, as long as they receive adequate exercise and attention. They thrive when given a routine and consistent schedule.

Shedding

no shedding hair everywhere

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

German Spitz sheds moderately year-round and heavily during shedding seasons. Regular grooming, such as brushing and bathing, can help manage shedding. Those with allergies should be aware that German Spitz can trigger allergies.

Grooming

low maintenance high maintenance

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

German Spitz requires moderate grooming, including regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling of their thick fur. They may require occasional trimming around the ears and paw pads. They require regular checkups for dental hygiene and nail care.

Drooling

dry mouthed heavy drooler

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

German Spitz is not prone to drooling, making them ideal for those who prefer a clean-mouthed breed.

Size

very small very large

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

German Spitz is a small to medium-sized breed, weighing between 20 to 30 pounds and standing between 12 to 15 inches in height. They have a compact and sturdy build, making them well-suited for active families.

Energy

couch potato high energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

German Spitz have a high energy level and require a lot of physical activity and mental stimulation. They love to play, run, and explore, making them great companions for active families. Daily exercise and playtime is necessary for their well-being.

Exercise

low exercise needs high exercise needs

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

German Spitz require substantial daily exercise and playtime to remain happy and healthy. They have a high energy level and love to run, play, and explore. Regular exercise, such as walks, runs, and interactive games, can help maintain their physical health and mental well-being.

Working

not suitable for working great for working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

German Spitz can perform various jobs and tasks, including serving as watchdogs, hunting companions, or service animals. They excel in obedience training and responding to commands but may require additional training for specific jobs or duties.

Hunting

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

German Spitz have a strong prey drive and can perform well in hunting and tracking activities. They have a keen sense of smell and great stamina, making them well-suited for hunting small game. However, early socialization and training is necessary to prevent inappropriate behavior around other animals.

Vigor

low-drive high vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

German Spitz have high levels of physical stamina and energy. They require a lot of exercise and playtime to maintain their physical health and mental well-being. They excel in agility and other active sports and activities that require speed, strength, and endurance.

Health

less healthy very healthy

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

German Spitz is generally healthy but may be prone to certain health issues, such as patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, and eye problems. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian and proper diet and exercise can help prevent or manage these conditions.

Obesity

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

German Spitz may be prone to obesity if they do not receive adequate exercise and a healthy diet. Owners should monitor their weight and avoid overfeeding. Regular exercise and activity can help maintain their weight and prevent health issues.

Cold

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

German Spitz may require extra warmth and protection during cold weather due to their small size and thin coat. Owners should provide warm shelter and clothing, such as jackets or sweaters, when necessary.

Heat

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

German Spitz can tolerate moderate heat, although they may require extra cooling and hydration during hot weather. Owners should avoid leaving them in overheated environments and provide cool, shaded areas for rest and play.

Apartment

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

German Spitz can do well in an apartment if they receive adequate exercise and attention. However, they have a high energy level and require substantial daily exercise and playtime to be happy and healthy.

Wanderlust

less likely to wander very likely to wander

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

German Spitz may have a tendency to wander or roam, making supervision necessary in unsecured areas. They have a strong prey drive and may chase small animals, so owners should be mindful of their surroundings and keep them on a leash in public places.

Sensitivity

less sensitive very sensitive

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

German Spitz can be sensitive to criticism or negative reinforcement, making positive reinforcement and rewards-based training necessary. They respond well to consistency and patience and may become anxious or stressed when subjected to harsh training methods.

Separation

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

German Spitz may become anxious or destructive when left alone for long periods. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to remain happy and content when their owners are away. Crate training and consistent routines can help manage separation anxiety.

Barking

quiet very vocal

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

German Spitz can be prone to barking, especially when they feel anxious, stressed, or when they see unfamiliar people or animals. Training and socialization can help manage this behavior, but it may require consistent effort from owners.

Mental

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

German Spitz is highly intelligent and requires mental stimulation and engagement. They thrive when given challenging toys, games, and activities that exercise their minds. Interactive training and obedience classes can also stimulate them mentally.

Novice_owners

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

German Spitz can be suitable for novice owners with proper socialization, training, and care. They require a lot of attention and exercise, but with patience and consistency, they can make great companions for families or individuals.

Trainability

difficult to train easy to train

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

German Spitz can be stubborn and independent, making training a challenge. Positive reinforcement and consistency are necessary for success. They have a strong prey drive and may require additional training for recall and obedience around distractions.

Similar breeds

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History of the German Spitz

The breed originated in Germany and was primarily used as a guard dog.

Today, they are popular companion dogs in many parts of the world.

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German Spitz Puppies

German Spitz puppies are generally small in size and weigh between 10 and 20 pounds.

They have a playful and energetic personality.