Spitz: origins, character and adoption

A breed of ancient origins, deriving from the so-called "Peat Dog" that was widespread during the Stone Age. It has an unmistakable coat and lively, almond-shaped eyes. It is alert and lively. Extremely loyal and easy to train.

History and origins

The German Spitz descends from the "Peat Dog" (Torfhund), which lived in peat bogs during the Stone Age, and from the Pile Dwelling Spitz. It is the oldest dog breed in Central Europe, from which many others have derived.

Appearance

It is distinguished by its alert eyes, pointed ears, fox-like muzzle, and strong collar. Here are other physical characteristics of the breed according to the ENCI profile:

• medium-sized almond-shaped eyes
• medium length neck without dewlap
• very thick and bushy tail
• This breed has a double coat: a long, straight topcoat and a short, dense undercoat. The color is grayish-gray with black tips.
• height at the withers 49 ± 6 cm.

Character

An alert and lively dog, very loyal to its owner, intelligent and easy to train. Docile, robust, and long-lived, it makes an excellent companion but is wary of strangers.

Types

In addition to the “standard” German Spitz, there are also small, medium and miniature German Spitz.

• Medium Spitz, similar to the large breed, differing only in size and coat color, which can be white, brown, black, orange, or cloud gray. The height at the withers ranges between 29 and 36 cm.
• Small SpitzThe German Spitz, also known as the German Spitz, stands between 23 and 38 cm tall at the withers and has the same coat color variations as the Spitz. In centuries past, it was the favorite dog of nobles and artists; even Mozart had one.
• Dwarf Spitz, even smaller than the Miniature Spitz, its height at the withers reaches a maximum of 22 cm. It is also similar in temperament to the Miniature Spitz, but even more sensitive and attached to its owner.

Health and nutrition

The German Spitz is a breed that enjoys good health but can suffer from:

• hereditary eye disorders
• epilepsy
• patellar dislocation.

As for nutrition, it is important to choose quality foods rich in nutrients, with possible supplements based on brewer's yeast and margarine to keep the coat shiny.

Cure

Be sure to brush the coat frequently, at least 3-4 times a week. Bathing, however, is not recommended unless it's infrequent. When brushing your Spitz, pay particular attention to the ears and underarms, where tangles tend to form more frequently. Finally, remember that males tend to shed their fur once a year, while females shed twice a year.

Cost

The average price for a pedigree German Spitz puppy is between 800 and 1500 euros. A miniature Spitz is slightly lower, ranging between 300 and 700 euros.

Adoption

Read also:

• Labrador Retriever: Origins, Character, and Adoption
• Moose Dog: Character and Where to Find It
• German Shepherd: character, breed and adoption

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