German Spitz

The German Spitz is a lively, fox-faced companion from Germany — an alert little watchdog kept in several sizes, and an ancestor of the Pomeranian.

History

Spitz dogs are among the oldest types in Germany, kept for centuries on farms and boats as watchful companions that guarded property and raised the alarm. The breed comes in sizes from the larger Mittelspitz down to the toy Pomeranian bred from it.

Temperament

The breed is known for being lively, devoted and alert — an affectionate companion that bonds closely and makes a keen, vocal watchdog. It is bright and can be barky without guidance.

Care and training

It needs regular exercise and mental engagement and takes readily to training, though the tendency to bark rewards early, consistent shaping. The thick double coat with its ruff needs regular brushing.

Health

The breed is generally healthy and long-lived; noted tendencies include patellar luxation and dental issues in the smaller sizes. These are patterns for the breed rather than a verdict on one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.