Japanese Spitz
Description
The Japanese Spitz is a small to medium-sized dog with a thick, fluffy white coat and a fox-like face framed by pointed ears. This breed emerged in Japan during the late 1800s and early 1900s, developed from various Spitz types including the white German Spitz. They weigh between 10 and 25 pounds, making them a manageable size for many homes. Their solid white coat stands out sharply, giving them a clean, elegant look. These dogs are friendly and playful, always ready to join family activities or greet visitors with enthusiasm. They get along well with kids and other pets but can be quite vocal, using their bark to alert you to anything unusual. Don’t mistake their noise for aggression—they’re mostly watchdogs with a big heart.
Grooming
The Japanese Spitz sports a medium-length double coat that sheds heavily during spring and fall. Brush them three times a week to keep mats at bay and increase brushing frequency during shedding seasons. Use an undercoat rake to pull out loose fur and reduce hair around the house. Bathing every 4 to 6 weeks helps maintain that bright white shine. Blow-drying after baths not only speeds drying but also loosens dead hair for easier removal. - Brush 3× weekly; daily in heavy shed seasons - Use undercoat rake for dead hair - Bathe every 4–6 weeks - Blow-dry to aid de-shedding - Check ears and trim nails regularly Pro tip: Keep a whitening shampoo handy to tackle any dirt or tear stains that show up on their pristine white fur. Regular brushing prevents tangles and keeps their coat looking fluffy and fresh.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
Plan for about 70 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions. The Japanese Spitz loves to explore and stay busy, so break up walks into a morning and evening routine to keep them mentally and physically satisfied. They enjoy brisk walks and occasional playtime off-leash in safe areas. Example routine: - Morning: 35 minutes brisk walk around the neighborhood - Evening: 35 minutes including some playtime at the park This schedule helps burn off their energy and keeps their barking in check by giving them plenty to focus on. Keep a leash handy, as their alert nature means they might want to chase after squirrels or investigate new sounds.
Boarding
When boarding a Japanese Spitz, provide a crate sized between 30 and 36 inches to give them enough room to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. These dogs enjoy active play sessions, so plan for two energetic play blocks each day. Include scent and brain games to keep their sharp minds engaged and prevent boredom. Staff should note their vocal tendencies and be prepared to offer reassurance during unfamiliar situations. They thrive on interaction and respond well to gentle, consistent handling. Regular walks and playtime help keep them calm and happy while away from home. Their clean, white coat means staff should watch for dirt or stains and offer grooming as needed to maintain their bright appearance.