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German spitz

The German Spitz is one of the oldest dog types in central Europe, kept for centuries as a farm and boat watchdog, and it is the ancestral stock behind the Pomeranian and several other spitz breeds.

It is recognised in several sizes, principally the Klein and the Mittel.

It stands 23 to 38 centimetres depending on size, weighs 5 to 11 kilograms and lives thirteen to fifteen years, with a stand-off double coat, a plumed tail carried over the back, and a foxy face. It is bright, lively and intensely alert — a watchdog first — and it is one of the more vocal breeds, which is the practical consideration for anyone living close to neighbours.

Origin
Central Europe; an ancient spitz type
Size
23–38 cm; 5–11 kg, depending on variety
Lifespan
13–15 years
Coat
Stand-off double coat with a plumed tail; heavy moult
Temperament
Bright, lively and extremely alert; vocal
Health
Patellar luxation, PRA, dental disease

Related: Finnish spitz · German longhaired pointer · German pinscher · German shepherd · German shepherd dog

2 german spitz photos, newest first

German spitz feed
  • Gherkin II, a german spitz

    Gherkin II

    Gherkin II was promoted to librarian managing an avalanche of blank books; unfortunately, a clockwork train misses the platform.

    FrostyOtter · 1 week ago

  • Gherkin II, a german spitz

    Gherkin II

    This is Gherkin II at maximum enthusiasm.

    GentleFinch · 2 weeks ago

Living with a german spitz

They bark. A spitz was kept to raise the alarm, and this one does it enthusiastically at anything that moves. Train a quiet cue early and manage the triggers; the instinct will not disappear.

The double coat needs brushing twice a week and daily through a heavy seasonal moult. Never shave it — the coat insulates against heat as well as cold.

Ask about patellar luxation, which is common in the smaller varieties, and PRA testing.

Dental disease is common in the smaller sizes; brush from puppyhood.

They are hardy and long-lived, and they need moderate exercise plus real mental engagement — they are clever and get bored.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. Individual dogs vary, and anything about a specific animal is a question for a vet who has seen it.

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