German Giant Spitz
Description
Ever wonder what makes the German Giant Spitz stand out? This breed is a larger version of the classic German Spitz family, weighing anywhere from 10 to 50 pounds. They carry a short double coat that comes in a variety of colors like black, cream, wolfgray, and even parti-color patterns. Their history goes way back, originally bred for herding sheep and guarding property in Germany. They’re alert and lively, always ready to sound the alarm if something’s off. What about their personality? German Giant Spitz dogs are affectionate with family but can be cautious around strangers. They’re quite vocal, often barking to alert their owners. This breed thrives on interaction and mental stimulation, making them excellent watchdogs and companions. Their versatility and spirited nature make them a unique addition to any home that appreciates a watchful, friendly dog.
Grooming
The German Giant Spitz sports a short double coat that needs regular care to stay healthy. Expect heavy shedding during spring and fall when the undercoat ‘blows’ out. Brush your dog twice a week to keep the coat neat, but during shedding seasons, daily brushing is best. Use an undercoat rake on dense areas to remove loose fur effectively. Bathing every 6 to 8 weeks is ideal, but make sure to dry the coat thoroughly to avoid any skin issues. Never shave this double coat—it protects your dog from weather extremes. - Brush 2× weekly; daily in shedding seasons - Use an undercoat rake on thick patches - Bathe every 6–8 weeks, dry completely - Avoid shaving the coat - Check for debris after outdoor play Pro tip: Schedule a professional de-shed treatment every 6 to 8 weeks to keep shedding manageable and your dog comfortable.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
How much exercise does a German Giant Spitz need? Aim for about 65 minutes of walking daily, ideally in one solid session. This breed enjoys a good walk that challenges both body and mind, so mix in some sniffing and exploring time. They appreciate a consistent routine that lets them burn off energy and stay alert. Example routine: Start with a 10-minute warm-up stroll around the block, followed by 40 minutes of brisk walking or light jogging. Finish with 15 minutes of sniffing and exploring a park or trail to engage their senses and satisfy their curiosity. This keeps your dog happy and well-exercised without overwhelming them.
Boarding
When boarding a German Giant Spitz, a crate sized between 42 and 48 inches works best to give them enough room to stretch comfortably. These dogs enjoy interactive play, so plan for two active play sessions daily combined with scent or brain games to keep their minds sharp. Staff should introduce themselves slowly and maintain a predictable routine to help the dog feel secure. This breed’s alert nature means they’ll appreciate enrichment activities that challenge their intelligence and satisfy their guarding instincts. Staff should note their vocal tendencies and provide quiet time after play. A mix of physical activity and mental stimulation helps prevent boredom and keeps them content during their stay.