The Japanese Spitz is a small, completely white breed of dog that is thought to have been bred from the Siberian Samoyed for smallness beginning in the late 19th century in Japan. They were introduced to the United States in the 1950s. It is very similar to the American Eskimo in size, overall appearance, and temperament. It is believed to have evolved from the Samoyed.

(Alternative name: Nihon Supittsu)

Japanese Spitz Appearance

They typically weigh 15 to 20 lb (7-9 kg), fully grown, and stand 11 to 13 inches (30 cm with a tolerance of 3cm either way) off of the ground at the withers. Their coats have a thick under-layer that is always pure white. The tail is covered with long hair and is carried curled over the back. The coat is short on the bottom half of the legs and feathering on the forelegs. Grooming this breed is actually relatively easy in contrast to what new owners may think. Although their white fur coat may look hard to look after, when they get muddy once the mud dries it will just flick off leaving the coat looking as good as new again. The ears are small and pointed upright, and the muzzle tapers slightly. The large oval eyes are dark and slightly slanted, and the nose and lips are black. The face of the Japanese Spitz is wedge-shaped. Detailed Breed Standards cen be viewed on The Canadian Kennel Club Website.

Japanese Spitz Temperament

The Spitz is an intelligent dog. They make good pets, being easy to train. They are very active, playful, and affectionate. They are good with children and other dogs. They bark at strangers and to get attention, making them excellent watch dogs. They are very affectionate and friendly; although some can be withdrawn with strangers, once they get used to someone, they become a lifelong friend. The Japanese Spitz is, in spirit, a big dog in a little dog’s body. Cheerful, bold, proud towards its masters, but like all Spitz-type dogs, most are suspicious of strangers.

Japanese Spitz Health

Japanese Spitz typically live from 10 to 12 years if well cared for; in rare cases they might live as long as 16 years.