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Japanese Spitz

Japanese Spitz

Everything to Know About the Japanese Spitz: Temperament, Shedding & Exercise in Canada

The Japanese Spitz is a cheerful, cloud‑white companion—smart, vocal, and devoted to the family. Apartment‑friendly with daily walks and brushing; excellent for first‑time owners who enjoy training.

Breed Group
Activity Level
Moderate
Size Category
Small
Coat Type
Double Coat
Coat Texture
Fluffy
Activity Level
Moderate
Trainability
High
Shedding Level
High
Family Friendly
Yes
Apartment Friendly
Yes
Hypoallergenic
No
Breed Type
Purebred
Japanese Spitz sitting on a forest path, fluffy white double coat and smiling expression, centered portrait with soft green background.

Breed History of the Japanese Spitz

Developed in Japan in the early 20th century from white Nordic‑type spitz imports, the Japanese Spitz was bred as a lively, clean companion. It remains popular in several countries and is recognized by many registries worldwide.

Japanese Spitz Appearance: Size, Coat & Distinctive Features

Balanced and true to type with hallmark features.

  • Weight: 11–20 lb (5–9 kg)
  • Height: 12–15 in (30–38 cm)
  • Coat type: Plush double coat with thick undercoat and profuse ruff
  • Coat colors: Pure white
  • Distinctive traits: Fox‑like face; dark eyes and nose; plumed tail over back; compact frame

How to Groom a Japanese Spitz: Coat Care & Maintenance

Coat looks high‑maintenance but is relatively easy if brushed routinely.

  • Brushing: 2–3×/week; daily during seasonal shed.
  • Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks; blow‑dry to skin during coat blow.
  • Nails/Teeth: Routine trims and dental care.

Japanese Spitz Exercise Needs: Daily Activity & Playtime Tips

Moderate needs—daily walks and play keep them happy.

  • Daily duration: 30–60 minutes.
  • Activities: Walks, fetch, trick training, agility for fun.
  • Vocal: Train a quiet cue; provide enrichment.

Training a Japanese Spitz: Behavior, Commands & Socialization

Bright and eager—reward‑based training with variety shines.

  • Focus areas: Polite greetings, bark management, recall indoors/outdoors.

Japanese Spitz Diet: Feeding Schedule & Nutrition Tips

Balanced small‑to‑medium diet; monitor weight.

  • Quantity: ~1–2 cups/day in 2 meals; adjust to condition.

Japanese Spitz Health Issues: Common Problems & Lifespan

Generally healthy; choose breeders who screen for patellas and eyes.

  • Orthopedic: Patellar luxation checks.
  • Eyes: Screening recommended.
  • Life expectancy: 12–14 years.

Where to Adopt or Find Japanese Spitz Puppies in Canada

Seek club‑referred breeders or consider spitz rescues.

  • Breeders: Verify patella/eye results and temperament.
  • Rescue: Northern/spitz rescues occasionally place Japanese Spitz.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Japanese Spitz

Are Japanese Spitz hypoallergenic?
No—double coat sheds seasonally.

Apartment‑friendly?
Yes—with daily walks and bark management.

Do they shed?
High seasonally; regular brushing helps.

How trainable?
High—smart and people‑oriented.

Good with kids?
Generally affectionate; supervise with small children.

Dog Name Generator – Find the Perfect Name for Your puppy!

Japanese Spitz sitting on a forest path, fluffy white double coat and smiling expression, centered portrait with soft green background.
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Other Non-Sporting Dogs

Xoloitzcuintli
Volpino Italiano
Tibetan Terrier
Tibetan Spaniel
Schipperke
Löwchen
Lhasa Apso
Keeshond
Japanese Spitz
Finnish Spitz
Eurasier
Coton de Tulear
Chow Chow
Chinese Shar-Pei
Bulldog
Bichon Frise
American Eskimo Dog
Dalmatian
Poodle
French Bulldog
Shiba Inu

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