Breeds in the Utility Group of Dogs

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Japanese Spitz

Another of the Japanese dogs of Spitz background, the Japanese Spitz has a startlingly white coat which is long and stands off in a quite dramatic fashion, quite different to the plush coats of the Japanese Akita and Japanese Shiba Inu.  The brilliance of the coat combined with the intense pigment of the eyes, eye rims, lips and nose make him a dog that can't be ignored - though in case you did he will make sure you notice him; as the Standard puts it "Slightly chatty at first meeting with strangers".

The origins of the Japanese Spitz are unclear, though one theory has him descended from the now-extinct German White Spitz, but what is agreed is that he is descended from the Nordic long-haired dogs and was exported to Japan early in the 20th century from Sweden as a larger type.  Japanese enthusiasts bred it to create a smaller dog, no more than 14" and quite lightweight, from where he was exported to Sweden and in 1970 made his way to England.

The Japanese Spitz is an alert and lively dog, affectionate but vocal and is a busy little housedog.  He doesn't need a great deal of exercise and will be happy to adapt himself to your lifestyle, so long as that does not mean being left alone for long periods.  He has been quite a success story since he first arrived in the UK.  His coat needs a fair amount of attention to do it justice, but a regular thorough weekly brush should keep him looking smart.

Click here to read the Japanese Spitz Breed Standard.

Japanese Spitz Breeders

• Charney 
• Houndbrae 
• Sanyinko 
• Hysuzi 
• Montblanc

Selected Books

The time to make sure that the Japanese Spitz is the right breed for you is before you bring him home. If you and your dog are going to be a good match speak to breeders, Breed Clubs, and generally find out as much as you can about the breed.

Understanding dog psychology, and what his motivations are will save a lot of confusion and misunderstandings for both you and him. Many mistakes can be avoided, and quick solutions reached if you have the basics of puppy training to guide you through all the early settling in difficulties.  It helps, too, to have some idea of basic healthcare so you can make informed judgements about whether a visit to the vet is necessary or if there is a simple remedy.  For example, many cases of upset tummies are best cured by 24 hour starvation.  The books we have chosen will be able to guide you as to whether your dog can be treated at home, or a visit to the surgery is necessary.

Japanese Spitz Breed Clubs

JAPANESE SPITZ CLUB. Sec. Mrs. J Moody Tel No: 01628 548813

Japanese Spitz Rescue and Rehoming

Contact the Breed Club. They should all be able to give you information about dogs requiring homes and procedures for re-homing; if you are in the unfortunate position of having to re-home your own Japanese Spitz, please go through breed rescue. They will not be judgmental and are best able to find the right permanent home for your dog.

If you are looking for a puppy contact the Breed Clubs and the Breeders listed and visit the puppyfinder website where there is a great deal of information on hereditary conditions.  If you are a Breeder and wish to advertise your puppies puppyfinder is an excellent showcase.