Japonese spitz

Overall description of the breed

The known ancestor of the Japanese Spitz is the German Spitz, with which the resemblance is striking. However, its creation and development took place in Japan, as its name indicates. The German Spitz is said to have been imported to the Land of the Rising Sun at the beginning of the 20th century.

Two decades later, specifically in 1921, the Japanese Spitz made its first appearance at dog shows on Japanese soil, surprising the city of Tokyo. Subsequently, it was crossbred with North American or Australian spitz-type breeds, contributing to the uniformity of the Japanese Spitz standard as it is known today. This charming little white dog with an elegant appearance quickly became the trendy companion in Japan, winning the hearts of people of all ages and social backgrounds.

Its standard was first edited and published in 1948 by the Japan Kennel Club, followed by its official recognition by the FCI, definitively registered on April 22, 1964. An update to its standard was performed on January 1, 1987.

The Japanese Spitz is a small-sized dog with a delicate and refined appearance. Despite its modest size, it boasts considerable robustness, presenting well-balanced proportions overall. Its body is square, with a length equal to its height.

Compact and with short legs, it has a well-opened chest, a substantial trunk, and a wide and deep chest. Its bone structure is finely crafted, and it displays straight front legs. Its backline is straight, with a clearly marked withers and a thick neck. Its almond-shaped bright eyes are always brown or dark in color. Its small V-shaped ears are turned forward and erect on the top of its discreetly rounded skull.

The Japanese Spitz has a long, soft, silky, and abundant coat. The only coat color accepted by the breed standard is solid white.

Naturally wary of strangers, it requires some time to build trust during initial encounters. Affectionate and deeply attached to its owners, it is a companion that places great importance on bonding with its family. Its anxious temperament makes it unable to tolerate prolonged solitude; it may become destructive if left bored in the absence of its loved ones.

Somewhat assertive and dominant with its counterparts, it is strongly recommended to familiarize it with other household animals from a young age, to ensure harmonious cohabitation. Playful and curious, the Nihon Suppittsu, its original name, is constantly in search of human contact. All owners agree that this charming little white dog with the appearance of a small polar bear will undoubtedly charm many of you.

In adulthood, the Japanese Spitz weighs between 6 and 10 kg (13.2 to 22 lb) and stands between 30 and 38 cm (11.8" to 15") for males, and between 28 and 36 cm (11" to 14.2") for females.