The Japanese Spitz is known for an elegant white coat, high-set triangular ears, catlike feet, and a tail carried over the back. This dog breed can be traced back to 1920s Japan, according to the Japanese Spitz Club (JSC), though the origins before then are murky. The breed resembles a few other dogs, including the German Spitz, the American Eskimo Dog, and the popular Pomeranian.
In this comprehensive breed guide, we've compiled everything you need to know about the Japanese Spitz, including breed characteristics, health considerations, care requirements, training tips, grooming needs, and all essential supplies. We've evaluated each product based on quality, safety, appropriateness for the breed, ease of use, and value. All products reviewed here include direct Amazon purchase links with our affiliate tag.
Quick Answer: Essential Japanese Spitz Supplies
If you're in a hurry, here are the must-have items for a Japanese Spitz:
- Food: Quality Dog Food - AAFCO-compliant, complete and balanced nutrition
- Food Bowl: Stainless Steel Bowl - Durable, easy to clean, appropriate size
- Grooming Tools: Grooming Tools - Brushes, combs, nail clippers
- Dog Bed: Comfortable Dog Bed - Supportive, appropriate size
- Toys: Interactive Dog Toys - Mental stimulation, exercise
- Leash and Collar: Leash and Collar Set - Safe, secure, comfortable
About Japanese Spitzs
The Japanese Spitz is known for an elegant white coat, high-set triangular ears, catlike feet, and a tail carried over the back. This dog breed can be traced back to 1920s Japan, according to the Japanese Spitz Club (JSC), though the origins before then are murky. The breed resembles a few other dogs, including the German Spitz, the American Eskimo Dog, and the popular Pomeranian.
Breed Characteristics
The Japanese Spitz is known for its unique personality and characteristics. Each breed has specific traits that make them special, and understanding these characteristics is essential for providing proper care and training.
The Japanese Spitz temperament is fun and energetic; this breed loves to entertain their humans by performing tricks and learning skills. They are great with children and other pets as long as they are properly socialized at an early age.
Japanese Spitz Health Issues
Common Health Consideration
The Japanese Spitz is generally a healthy breed that lives 10–14 years on average. However, they can be prone to certain health issues, and pet insurance may be a good investment when you bring home a Japanese Spitz puppy.
Common Health Consideration
Patellar luxation is when a dog’s kneecap moves (luxates) out of place, most often due to the shallow groove in the femur. There are varying degrees of kneecap luxation, with the most severe requiring orthopedic surgery.
Common Health Consideration
Talk to your vet if your dog shows signs of a patellar luxation, which include limping and skipping on occasion during a walk or run.
Common Health Consideration
Muscular dystrophy is a rare musculoskeletal disorder that’s inherited in this breed. Japanese Spitz with muscular dystrophy typically show signs starting at 10–12 weeks of age. Symptoms may include difficulty chewing, hypersalivation, exercise intolerance, muscular pain, and incoordination. There i
Common Health Consideration
Symptoms slowly progress over several months, and affected Japanese Spitz puppies typically die around 1 year of age. Ensure that your Japanese Spitz breeder has performed genetic testing on their dogs to make sure the genetic mutation responsible for muscular dystrophy isn’t passed down to the pupp
While individual dogs may vary, it's important to be aware of potential health issues that can affect the Japanese Spitz. Regular veterinary care, proper nutrition, and preventive measures can help keep your dog healthy throughout their life.
Product Comparison Table
| Product | Key Features | Best For | Size/Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quality Dog Food | AAFCO-compliant, complete and balanced nutrition | Daily nutrition, health maintenance | Appropriate for breed size |
| Food Bowl | Stainless steel, durable, easy to clean | Feeding, water | Appropriate size for breed |
| Grooming Tools | Brushes, combs, nail clippers | Grooming, coat maintenance | Appropriate for coat type |
| Dog Bed | Comfortable, supportive, washable | Rest, sleep, comfort | Appropriate size for breed |
What To Feed a Japanese Spitz
Nutrition Basics
A Japanese Spitz should be fed a high-quality, small-breed dog food that meets the nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). Japanese Spitz, like all dogs, should be fed a diet that matches their life stage (puppy, adult, or senior). Your veterinarian can help you choose the best food for your dog.
Key Features: AAFCO-compliant, complete and balanced, appropriate for breed size
How Much Should You Feed a Japanese Spitz?
The recommended caloric intake for Japanese Spitzs varies between individuals—it all comes down to their size, metabolism, neuter/spay status, and activity level. Additionally, the caloric content for each food may vary drastically from one brand to the next.
The best way to determine how much to feed a Japanese Spitz is to talk with your veterinarian. They can calculate how much you should feed your dog. Additionally, the feeding guide labels on your dog food provide valuable information about portions.
Behavior and Training Tips for the Japanese Spitz
Japanese Spitz Personality and Temperament
The Japanese Spitz temperament is fun and energetic; this breed loves to entertain their humans by performing tricks and learning skills. They are great with children and other pets as long as they are properly socialized at an early age.
Japanese Spitz Training
Japanese Spitz dogs are friendly, and eager to meet new people and other pets—again, if they have been properly socialized at a young age around children, adults, and other dogs, cats, and pocket pets. A dog that hasn’t been properly socialized may be more reserved and nervous.
Key Features: Positive reinforcement, lots of treats, early socialization, consistent training
View Training Treats on Amazon
Japanese Spitz Grooming Guide
Skin Care
Regular bathing using dog shampoo helps keep your Japanese Spitz's skin healthy. If you notice any changes in your dog's skin, such as redness or flakiness, talk to your veterinarian.
Key Features: Regular bathing, dog shampoo, monitor skin health
Coat Care
The Japanese Spitz has a medium-length, solid white double coat. Their grooming needs are low most of the year, according to the JSC. The exception is when they shed their entire undercoat twice yearly, which then requires more maintenance.
Key Features: Regular brushing, prevent matting, coat maintenance
Considerations for Pet Parents
Family Compatibility
The Japanese Spitz can make a great family pet when properly socialized and trained. Understanding the breed's needs and characteristics is essential for a successful relationship.
Exercise Needs
Final Verdict
The Japanese Spitz is known for an elegant white coat, high-set triangular ears, catlike feet, and a tail carried over the back. This dog breed can be traced back to 1920s Japan, according to the Japanese Spitz Club (JSC), though the origins before then are murky. The breed resembles a few other dogs, including the German Spitz, the American Eskimo Dog, and the popular Pomeranian.
With proper care including a balanced diet (AAFCO-compliant food), regular grooming, appropriate exercise, early socialization and training, and regular veterinary care, your Japanese Spitz can live a healthy and happy life.
Quality supplies are an investment in your Japanese Spitz's long-term health and happiness. Choose products that are safe, appropriate for the breed, and designed to meet their specific needs. With proper care and attention, your Japanese Spitz will be a wonderful companion for many years to come.
Use this breed guide as a reference when considering or caring for a Japanese Spitz, and don't hesitate to consult with your veterinarian if you have questions about your dog's specific needs or notice any signs of health issues.