German Spitz: Temperament, Exercise, Health

  
Group: German Spitz belongs to the Non-Sporting Dog Breed Group.

Also Known As: Deutscher Spitz

About German Spitz

Origin of the Breed The direct ancestors of the German Spitz can be considered the heavily coated Nordic herding dogs. The German Spitz looks familiar to the Pomeranian in size and looks, the Germans never approve of this fact. The earliest mention of the German Spitz can be traced back to the middle of 15th century, in German literature. Centuries ago the German Spitz were used as hunting companions and watch dogs.

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Description of the Dog

While the Giant German Spitz are seen in colors like white, black or tan, the Standard and Miniature German Spitz can be seen in a variety of shades like black, brown, orange, gray, white. The German Spitz are double-coated with soft, dense fur on the longish side. They have large dark eyes, small triangular ears, a thick head and a tail that tend to curl on the top. Basically, the German Spits is a compact dog, with a well-arched back and a offstanding coat.

Height

The height of three categories of the German Spitz are given below:

Giant German Spitz: 16 to 17 inches
Standard German Spitz:11 to 14 inches
Miniature/Toy German Spitz: 9 to 11 inches

Weight

The average weight of three categories of the German Spitz are given below:

Giant German Spitz: 38 to 40 pounds
Standard German Spitz: 23 to 41 pounds
Miniature/Toy German Spitz: 18 to 22 pounds

Personality

Temperament

The German Spitz is affectionate, lively, energetic, loyal, intelligent, agile and active by nature. Although they are always eager to please their owners, they are not easy to train. They tend to ask for a lot of attention and love from their human families. Many a times their stubborn and somewhat temperamental personality acts as a hindrance to proper training. They don't mix well with strangers. Socializing and obedience training is important and should be started from an early age.

The German Spitz is not suitable for families having infants. Too much of attention from children tend to make them snappy. A well-trained German Spitz makes an excellent pet and companion. Their alertness makes them good watchdogs. They don't like grooming sessions, thus the owner needs to train them to be calm and patient during these times.

Activity Level

Exercise

Regular walks are welcome. You can also take the dog for a running session occasionally to help it stretch its legs. The German Spitz does not require a lot of exercise, what it needs is a lot of human attention and love. The dog will be content if you take it for a walk with you or just sit at home spend idle time at home.

Living Conditions

The German Spitz is quite comfortable living indoors and playing in the nearby park. They make ideal pets for city dwellers, apartment living and those with people living in homes with a small fenced backyard.

Grooming

Grooming involves regular brushing or combing with soft bristled comb or brush to avoid matting. However, unlike other dogs, the German Spitz does not liking the grooming sessions. Thus, the owners should train their dogs to remain calm when the grooming is being done. Baths should be given only when necessary.

Health Problems

The German Spitz may suffer from hereditary health disorders like patella luxation or eye problems. They may also suffer from tooth related ailments. Otherwise, they are a healthy breed.

Life Expectancy: 12 to15 years