Indian Spitz

The Indian Spitz is a small white spitz that became the most popular dog in India for a generation, for reasons that were mostly economic.

History

It descends from German Spitz brought to India under British rule and bred locally to suit the climate. Its rise was a consequence of policy: strict import restrictions on dogs from the 1950s to the 1980s left Indian households with few pedigree options, and the Indian Spitz — already established and heat-tolerant — filled the gap almost completely. Imports resumed and its dominance ended.

Temperament

The breed is known for being alert, intelligent and affectionate with its family, quick to bark at arrivals and easy in an ordinary household.

Care and training

Exercise needs are modest and easily met. The double coat needs regular brushing and copes with Indian heat better than its density suggests. It trains readily.

Health

Generally robust, with patellar luxation and, from the coat in hot climates, skin problems among the known concerns. These are patterns for the breed rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.