THE JAPANESE SPITZ

THE JAPANESE SPITZ:

   The Japanese Spitz (Nihon Supittsu) is a small to medium breed of dog of the Spitz type. The Japanese Spitz is a companion dog and pet. His breed has been a real discovery, actually, because its handsome appearance like that of a small-sized snow white arctic dog is complemented by some very particular temperamental characteristics and it is often improperly called mini-Samoyed. It is believed, originated in 19th-century Japan from an attempt to make a smaller, more domesticated Samoyed-style canine. Using a number of breeds including the Samoyed, the white German Spitz and the American Eskimo, the result was a friendly, loyal and cuddly pup that became a huge hit in 1950s Japan. There are varying standards around the world as to the ideal size of the breed, but they are always larger than their smaller cousins, the Pomeranian. They were developed in Japan in the 1920s and 30s by breeding a number of other Spitz type dog breeds together.

LOOKS:

   The Japanese Spitz is a small dog, around 13 inches at the withers, with a somewhat square body, deep chest, and a very thick pure white double coat. The coat consists of an outer coat that stands off from the soft inner coat, with fur shorter on the muzzle and ears as well as the fronts of the forelegs and the hindlegs. A ruff of longer fur is around the dog's neck. It has a pointed muzzle and small, triangular shape prick ears. The tail is long, heavily covered with long fur, and is carried curled over and lying on the dog's back. The white coat contrasts with the black pads and nails of the feet, the black nose, and the dark eyes.

TEMPERAMENT:

   The Japanese Spitz is a family dog and thrives on human companionship. They are alert, intelligent, bold and lively. They are characterized by their great courage, affection and they are devoted companions. They are small enough to enjoy being a lap dog, but let it be aid, at their discretion, for despite these qualities are nevertheless of an independent nature with a will of their own. They enjoy being active and love to be in the outdoors. They are intelligent, playful, alert, and obedient, and particularly excellent and loving toward children.

THINGS TO KNOW:

·         Creation of the breed commenced in the late 1800s.

·         They can have a very dominant nature.

·         They tend to be wary of complete strangers that rush up to them without formal introduction.

·         Life expectancy is estimated at 10–16 years.

·         This is a very tidy animal that should be bathed only when necessary but the coat should be combed and brushed regularly.

HEALTH:

   They are a healthy breed with very few genetic problems. The main health concern for Japanese Spitz is the development of Patellar luxation, a condition in which the kneecap dislocates out of its normal position. They can also be prone to runny eyes which is most commonly due to having tear ducts that are too small, or an allergy to long grass or stress.