Japanese Spitz – character, disposition, price

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The Japanese Spitz is one of the most charming, yet extremely mysterious four-legged dogs. These small, lively dogs are native to Japan, but are gaining popularity around the world.

Japanese Spitz – description and appearance of the breed

Japanese Spitz, is a medium-sized dog with a proportional build. Dogs of this breed are characterized by a dense, fluffy coat, usually white in color, although there are also cream or black varieties. They look a bit like small foxes, with a sharp, intelligent look to their dark eyes.

The Japanese Spitz has rather large ears that are always erect, adding to its alert appearance. The tail of this breed is characteristically curled on the back. Their weight usually varies between 5 and 10 kilograms, and the height at the withers is about 30-38 centimeters.

Character of the Japanese Spitz dog breed

Skills – what should you know?

Japanese Spitz dogs are extremely intelligent and quick learners. They are great companions for active people, as they love to play and enjoy participating in various activities.

What kind of personality does it have?

The Japanese Spitz’s personality is definitely one of its greatest qualities. They are loyal dogs, attaching themselves to their owner, but also independent and confident. They are usually friendly to other people and animals, but need time to accept new people in their environment.

Japanese Spitz – how to train and raise?

Due to their intelligence, the Japanese Spitz is easy to train. However, they are dogs with a strong character, so they need a consistent but gentle training method.

For whom is the Japanese Spitz suitable?

The Japanese Spitz is an ideal dog for people who value independence, but at the same time want a dog that will be a faithful companion. Because of their energy and joie de vivre, they are most suitable for active people who can provide them with enough exercise and stimulation.

Japanese Spitz – price

The price of the Japanese Spitz is quite high, due to its popularity and rarity. The average price of a puppy is about 4000-6000 zlotys, but it can increase depending on the origin of the dog and the prestige of the kennel.

Disadvantages and advantages

Disadvantages

Despite its many advantages, the Japanese Spitz also has its disadvantages. These dogs are often independent and may show a reluctance to obey if not properly raised. They may also have a tendency to bark loudly, especially when they are nervous or excited.

Advantages

However, the advantages of owning a Japanese Spitz far outweigh their disadvantages. They are intelligent dogs, loyal and definitely attached to their owner. They are also healthy and long-lived, and their grooming is not too demanding.

Japanese Spitz – Health, diseases and grooming

Nutrition

The Japanese Spitz has no special dietary requirements. A balanced diet based on high-quality food, possibly supplemented with supplements, is enough for him.

Grooming

Grooming the Japanese Spitz is not difficult, although it requires regular combing due to its dense coat. Special attention should be paid to the teeth, which are prone to periodontal disease.

Diseases

Dogs of this breed are generally healthy, but may be prone to some health problems, such as eye disease, hip dysplasia and heart problems.

Accessories and equipment or how to prepare for this breed?

When preparing for the Japanese Spitz, it’s a good idea to get a brush for the coat, a good quality food and a set of toys.

History of the Japanese Spitz dog breed

The Japanese Spitz, also known as the Nihon Supittsu, is considered one of Japan’s oldest and purest breeds. Its history is inextricably linked to the history of the Land of the Cherry Blossom.

Origins

The origins of the Japanese Spitz breed date back many centuries. The first mention of dogs resembling Japanese Spitzes dates back to the 8th century AD. Initially, these dogs were used for hunting small animals and as guard dogs. In the Middle Ages, Spitzes began to be treated as valuable treasures and became court dogs, valued for their hunting skills, but also for their elegant appearance and loyalty to their owner.

Development of the breed

The first attempts to standardize the breed are attributed to the 19th century. The Japanese, influenced by the trends of the time, decided to breed a breed with an invariable white coat. For this reason, the Japanese Spitz that we know today is the result of crossing several breeds, such as the German Spitz, Danish Spitz, Volpino Italiano and American Eskimo Dog. These crosses resulted in a dog with a delicate and elegant build, with a distinctive white coat.

Today

Today, the Japanese Spitz is considered a national treasure of Japan and is one of the country’s most popular breeds. Around the world, the Japanese Spitz is prized for its intelligence, elegant appearance and independent character. Despite its long history, the breed is still extremely rare outside Japan, and its species purity is strictly protected.

Pattern of the Japanese Spitz dog breed

The Japanese Spitz is a breed with a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from other Spitzes. It is a breed with pronounced sexual dimorphism, meaning males are noticeably larger and stronger than females.

Body structure

The Japanese Spitz is a medium-sized dog with a harmonious and proportional body. Height at the withers ranges from 30 to 38 cm, and body weight is about 10 kg for males and 8 kg for females. The body of the Japanese Spitz is square, with a well-muscled back and strong, straight limbs. The tails of these dogs are always curled over the back.

Head

The head of the Japanese Spitz is proportionate to the body, with a fine build. The skull is broad, and the muzzle is wedge-shaped and slightly shorter than the skull. These spitzes have small, triangular eyes, which are always dark and express intelligence and alertness. The ears are medium-sized, upright and always worn vertically.

Hair

One of the most distinctive features of the Japanese Spitz is its coat. It is thick and fluffy, resembling the coat of a polar fox. The fur covering the body is long and stiff, while the undercoat is short and soft. A unique feature of these dogs is that their coat is always white, which emphasizes their elegant appearance.

The standard Japanese Spitz is an ideal example of an elegant, harmonious dog with a distinctive appearance and unique coat color. This breed, deservedly called a treasure of Japan, is a real jewel among dogs.

Japanese Spitz – interesting facts about the breed

The Japanese Spitz is a breed full of mysteries and curiosities that make it even more fascinating. Here are some of the most interesting facts about this breed.

Unique coat color

The first and most well-known curiosity about Japanese Spitzes is their unique white coat. These spitzes are one of the few dog breeds that always have a white coat color. The Japanese value this color so much that they even have a special word in their language to describe the whiteness of the Japanese Spitz’s coat – “shiro,” which literally means “white as snow.”

A national treasure

In Japan, the Japanese Spitz is considered a national treasure. These dogs are a symbol of the country and are often featured in pop culture there. Japanese Spitzes can often be found at various exhibitions and shows, where they are eagerly displayed as an example of Japanese heritage and culture.

Unique character traits

The Japanese Spitz is a breed with a unique character. These dogs are independent and have a strong personality, but at the same time they are loyal and very attached to their owner. They are highly intelligent dogs that quickly learn new commands and are eager to participate in various activities.

A rare breed

Despite its popularity in Japan, the Japanese Spitz is a rare breed outside the country. Many breeders around the world are trying to increase the population of these dogs, but due to strict rules regarding breeding and maintaining species purity, it is a process that takes time and patience.

Zodiac sign

In Japan, Japanese Spitzes are believed to be associated with the zodiac sign, the Dog. People born in the year of the Dog often choose a Japanese Spitz as their four-legged friend, believing it will bring good luck and prosperity.

Emily Carter is an experienced pet enthusiast and writer, with over a decade of experience caring for and working with animals. From her early days volunteering at animal shelters to becoming a pet care advisor, Emily has dedicated her life to understanding the unique needs of pets and helping pet owners provide the best possible care for their furry companions. She is especially passionate about topics like pet nutrition, behavior, training, and animal welfare.

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