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Japanese spitz

The Japanese Spitz was developed in Japan in the 1920s and 30s from white German Spitz imports and other white spitz breeds, and standardised after the Second World War.

It is pure white, with a stand-off coat, a plumed tail over the back and a distinctly foxy face.

It stands 30 to 38 centimetres, weighs 5 to 10 kilograms and lives twelve to sixteen years. It is a companion breed rather than a working one, and it is a genuinely healthy one — the gene pool was managed carefully and there are few inherited problems. Temperament is bright, affectionate and playful, with the spitz tendency to alert-bark and a strong attachment to its household.

Origin
Japan, 1920s–30s, from white spitz imports
Size
30–38 cm; 5–10 kg
Lifespan
12–16 years
Coat
Pure white stand-off double coat; surprisingly self-cleaning
Temperament
Bright, affectionate and playful; alert-barks
Health
Notably sound; patellar luxation the main concern

Related: German spitz · Finnish spitz · Japanese akita inu · Japanese chin · Japanese terrier

2 japanese spitz photos, newest first

Japanese spitz feed
  • Halibut II, a japanese spitz

    Halibut II

    Halibut II was promoted to stage manager during a curtain emergency; unfortunately, one toy suitcase circles endlessly.

    FrostyOtter · 1 week ago

  • Halibut II, a japanese spitz

    Halibut II

    Halibut II does this every morning and I have stopped questioning it.

    SunnyHeron · 2 weeks ago

Living with a japanese spitz

The white coat is far less trouble than it looks. It is textured so that dirt dries and falls out, so bathing is infrequent — brushing twice a week and daily through the moult is most of the work, and over-bathing damages the coat.

Never shave a double coat.

They alert-bark like any spitz. Early training on a quiet cue helps.

Health is genuinely good, which is worth noting for a purebred. Ask about patellar luxation and have eyes checked.

They are companion dogs and dislike being left alone. Exercise needs are moderate — a couple of good walks and play — and they are clever and enjoy training.

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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