Overview
The Japanese Spitz was developed in Japan in the 1920s and 1930s from white spitz types imported from various countries, and it has become popular in Britain as a companion. It is a small dog with a stand-off white double coat, a plumed tail, black-rimmed eyes and a cheerful expression. It is bigger than a Pomeranian and smaller than a Samoyed.
The temperament is bright and outgoing with family, a little reserved with strangers at first, and generally sound. The white coat looks high maintenance but is dirt-repellent and dries clean.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour a day in two parts suits most. They enjoy a brisk walk, a chase game and training, and they are agile enough for agility if the owner is keen. They are not a long-distance breed but will keep going if the pace is fun.
The thick coat is fine in cold and wet, less so in summer heat. Choose shade and early walks in warm weather.
On the walk
- Barking: They alert and announce. Strange noises, bikes and other dogs may earn a volley of barks until the dog settles into the walk.
- Recall: Often good, as they stay close and watch their person. Confirm it in an enclosed area before trusting it near roads.
- Other dogs: Friendly and playful, happy in a group with dogs of similar size. Some are wary of very large dogs.
- Coat: Mud brushes out once dry and the coat rarely smells. Still worth a towel after a wet walk.
Tips for professional walkers
- Carry a few treats for recall practice and for walking calmly past barking triggers.
- Give the dog a brief game or training moment to keep its mind as busy as its legs.
- Brush the undercoat during shedding seasons to save the owner a flood of hair.
- Watch for weepy eyes; the hair around the face can get stained and irritated.
What to ask the owner
- How does the dog handle strangers and other dogs on a first meeting?
- Is there a quiet cue or routine you use for barking?
- Any history of knee problems or a skipping gait?