Why Choose a
German Spitz?

Click here for the German Spitz Standard

The magnificent coat and cheeky foxy face certainly attract many people to their first German Spitz as either show or companion animal. I chose my first one in 1994 using high intelligence and loyalty as the main criteria. One look at the face of my Spitz was enough to convince anyone that here was a smart dog with a huge personality. He proved to be incredibly loyal, loving and trainable. The added advantage was that all this came in a compact package with a long lifespan.
Grooming
Despite the coat, German Spitz, are not high maintenance dogs. Regular brushing is essential to remove old coat and stimulate new growth but without a typically doggy odour there is no need to bath the dog as often as people might think. Mud brushes out after it dries and the coarse coat repels water. Extra brushing is required at the end of summer and winter to remove the old coat and avoid tangles and knots. Grass seeds and burrs can be a problem, as in any coated breed, but many rural people own German Spitz and find grass seeds brush out easily. Particular attention must be paid to ensuring the hair inside the ears is kept free from seeds and burrs.
Training and Exercise.
All dogs need sufficient exercise and the opportunity to adequately socialise with other dogs and people. German Spitz do require exercise to keep them fit and healthy but a brisk daily walk will suffice for this and they can live successfully in apartments provided a daily walk is part of their routine. They respond well to positive training and an early emphasis on training and socialisation will ensure many years of loyal and fun filled companionship.
Personality.
German Spitz are highly people oriented and quickly form a strong bond with the family. If puppies are brought up with children who are educated in caring appropriately for an animal, then they make an ideal pet for the kids and will join in all the fun and games a family can offer. Obviously, their compact size means that rough and tumble games are inappropriate. All dogs bark and these are no exception but can be trained from an early age to respond appropriately. You can expect your Spitz to welcome visitors with enthusiasm and then join in any activities you have planned. These are dogs that thrive on companionship and do not tolerate isolation.
Health and Diet.
German Spitz are quite hardy dogs and so far careful breeding has ensured that no obvious hereditary problems have developed. Good nutrition is essential for the coat to achieve its full potential and choosing a well balanced diet is obviously important for this. Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids should be a part of the diet, either already included in kibble or added to home cooking. Being compact dogs it is important not to train them to jump up excessively as this will stress rear leg joints and knees; it is preferable for people to go down to the dog’s level.