German Spitz Breed Description

Introduction

(Mittel) is a member of the Spitz family They are loyal, active, alert and make excellent watchdogs. German Spitz love a game with the family; in fact, their buoyancy, independence and devotion to the family are the central breed characteristics. They are intelligent, bright, lively and independent, mix well with humans and with other dog breeds as well. They can be noisy if not taught otherwise, and they need regular exercise and activity so they do not become bored and destructive. These dogs are good with children as long as they are raised with them from puppyhood. They are free from doggy odors and are easy to care for. With a regular brushing of their thick coat once a week and a bath when required, the German Spitz is an easy breed to maintain.

History

Today's German Spitz is the descendant of the earliest dogs of the Stone Age. Recent archaeological digs in the Northern German Plains have unearthed remains of Turfspitz, the most immediate relative of these dogs. They became known over the centuries as Mistbeller, which describes their habit of standing on top of the dung heap and barking. One can only presume this was something their owners found useful!

The Spitz remained popular in Germany and Russia, but did not travel beyond those countries until George I, the Hannover Elector, took the throne of England at the death of Queen Anne in 1714. George and the German relatives who visited him brought their Spitzes to court and they became instantly fashionable. Writings of the time talk about these dogs as Pomerians, as they were thought to originate in Pommern, Germany, an area on the south shore of the Baltic Sea called Pomerania by the English. Frederic Chopin is believed to have dedicated his "Valse de Petite Chiens' to his small Spitz.

Since the First World War the breed's popularity has significantly declined, ultimately reducing their numbers to the point of scarcity. Today, German Spitz breeders are working to restore the population of these delightful dogs. They are currently enrolled in the AKC's Foundation Stock Service.

Description

German Spitz are medium sized, and while they are certainly fluffy thanks to their dense coarse double coats, they are sturdy-framed animals that display physical vitality. All have dark eyes, eye rims and noses. They have fox-like faces, with pointed muzzles and erect pointy ears. The heavily feathered tail is held curled over the back.

Spitz present in black, black and tan, brown, cream, orange, parti-color, red, sable, white and wolf gray.

Temperament

Curious and busy by nature, the German Spitz demands attention. Playtime is vital to this active breed, and it will demand you participate. True to the "Mistbeller" name of old, the dogs will stand up on their hind legs and bark until owners respond! They are known for having a great sense of humor and enjoy playing practical jokes on their families.

Extremely loving, they must be carefully socialized with people when they are young; otherwise, they may bond so strongly to one individual that they become suspicious of all others. They are excellent watchdogs, using their bark to scare off intruders and to awaken their owners to the problem.

Health and Care

Luxating patellas and retinal dysplasia have been reported in some European-bred dogs. At present, no American breeders are reporting these conditions.

Brushing regularly will prevent matting of the rough coat. The dense undercoat will shed twice a year on average. Bathe only when necessary; keep nails trimmed and teeth clean.

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