German small spitz advantages and disadvantages. Miniature Spitz: description of the breed of dogs and photos. Puberty and mating

The German Spitz breed has five varieties. Today we will talk about species such as medium, small and miniature, which are included in the group of small representatives of the breed. These dogs have similarities in appearance and manifestations of character. They are distinguished by size and color. A detailed description of the small German Spitz is presented below.

Before introducing you to the features of small representatives, it is worth saying a few words about the classification of the German Spitz breed in general. It includes five growth varieties, the names and sizes of which can be found in the table:

Special attention deserves a miniature spitz, he is also a Pomeranian. The FCI (Federation Cynologique Internationale) and the RKF (Russian Cynological Federation) consider the Pomeranian to be a dwarf variety of the German. The American, English and Canadian Kennel Clubs recognize the Pomeranian as a separate breed. You can learn about the difference between the breeds in the article "Differences between German and Pomeranian Spitz".

A brief description of the breeds included in the group of small German Spitz:

life expectancy: 12-16 years;
the weight of each breed must correspond to its size (see table above);
very energetic animals leading an active lifestyle, both in the house and on the street;
raising a pet, you can not give him concessions, otherwise she will begin to dominate and will get out of control;
easy to train - Spitz love to please the owner;
these dogs get along well with children, becoming excellent companions in games;
strangers are treated with suspicion, when they approach they begin to bark;
Spitz love to bully large dogs, considering themselves as big;
if there are other animals in the house, it will take time for the spitz to get used to them;
These dogs will fit into any family and make great companions.

From guards to pet dogs

The study of the remains of lake and peat dogs found in central Europe gave grounds to consider these animals as the ancestors of modern Spitz. It is believed that representatives of this breed have existed for 2500 years. The first mention of these dogs can be found in manuscripts of the fifteenth century. Ancient descriptions say that over time, their exterior has not undergone major changes.

Initially, Spitz was used as guards of sheep herds and master's property. They also scared away and caught small rodents. Mostly ordinary people kept these dogs. The situation did not change until the upper strata of society noticed the loudly barking, but very beautiful dogs. She wished to know to keep the Spitz with her and made them pets.

In the eighteenth century, German breeders, and then breeders from other countries, intensively took up the breeding of smaller representatives of the breed and obtaining different shades of wool from them. That is how the five varieties of the breed appeared.

Square fluffy ball

It is easy to recognize the German Spitz dog breed by a small fox-like muzzle, triangular and high-standing ears, thick and fluffy hair and a ring-shaped tail. The average Spitz has a slightly longer muzzle than the Small and Miniature Spitz.

The body of the animal with its proportions resembles a square: its length is equal to the height at the withers. Short, but muscular paws allow the dog to move freely, plastically, springy starting from the ground. It seems that she is not running, but hovering above the ground. The perky look of almond-shaped eyes always invites you to play or run.

The dog's jaws have a scissor or pincer bite. It is worth noting that the dental system is a sore subject for Spitz. Due to poor-quality breeding, animals can inherit overshot, undershot, or fragile teeth.

double coat

Any German Spitz from a small group is the owner of a chic long coat, thanks to which he does not freeze in the cold. Such protection makes the dog an excellent companion for lovers of winter walks.

Thick, soft to the touch, undercoat keeps the hard guard hairs in an upright position, which gives the dogs a halo of fluffiness. A distinctive feature of the Spitz is the magnificent “collar” and “panties”, as well as the absence of a specific dog smell.

Looking at a fluffy Spitz, one might immediately think that his coat needs special and thorough care. And there is some truth in this belief. With each molt, hairs fly in all directions from the animal. Only daily combing of dead hair can improve the situation. However, regular cleaning cannot be avoided. Allergy sufferers are better off acquiring such a pet.

But the rest of the time you need to comb the dog no more than twice a week, otherwise you can comb out the undercoat. Bathe dogs as they get dirty, but no more than once every one to two months. If the street is dirty, then after a walk you can use dry shampoo for wool and wet wipes for paws. In general, Pomeranians are big cleaners and independently monitor the cleanliness of their bodies.

It is also necessary to take care of the pet's timely haircut, especially for those who are planning an exhibition career for him. If the owner does not have skills in trimming dogs, then he will have to fork out for a grooming master. An overgrown spitz looks untidy, which does not paint its owner.

colorful miracle

The characteristics of the description of the Spitz of the small group also include their colors. Few breeds can boast such a variety of colors in coat coloring.

Breeders have bred many color variations of Spitz. However, the FCI standard accepted pure black, zoned gray, pure white, white-red, cream, red and brown colors of varying intensity. Tricolor coat colors are also allowed, when spots of the above shades are evenly distributed on the main white background.

Small ringing defender

Instincts from the past and excellent hearing make the Small Spitz excellent watchdogs. Alert, wary and confident nature allows them to be the first to notice strangers and report their approach with a ringing bark.

But it is barking that can become a stumbling block in communication with a Spitz. Each time the dog will react loudly to any irritant, which can infuriate even the most patient owner. Therefore, many consider these pets obsessive and unbearable.

Being suspicious, these dogs do not favor guests or friends of the owner. With a good upbringing, they will not rush at them, they will just get in the way, because such dogs do not have the courage. What it is - impudence or a manifestation of devotion and protection - is up to the owner to decide.

And loves to play and sleep

The German Spitz has an inexhaustible cheerfulness, affability and friendliness. These character traits, combined with a “smiling” face, have already won many hearts.

An energetic and playful dog will be able to find a common language with any household: for adults, he will keep company on a morning run or on a long hike, and he will play with children for many hours in a row. However, too young children should not be trusted with a dog. If a child accidentally hurts her, bites cannot be avoided.

Small Spitz have a balanced psyche, but they subtly feel the change in the owner's mood. In addition, these dogs are ready to adapt to his daily routine: go to bed and get up at the same time. These features make them excellent companions.

Like any true friend, the Spitz misses the owner in his absence. Due to forced loneliness, the character of the dog can deteriorate, turning it into a capricious, angry and constantly growling creature. Therefore, such a pet is not suitable for too busy people.

Own and others

Compliant German Spitz will be able to get along with any other pets. True, it will take him a little time to get used to them.

But behind the walls of his native home, the situation is changing. Despite their small size, Spitz consider themselves large dogs. For them, any large dog is a potential rival, who must be barked at, or even rushed at him. In order to avoid conflicts on each walk, you will have to keep an eye on the pet and try to avoid meeting with large individuals.

Obedient pet - well-mannered pet

German Spitz have a pronounced dominance, for which they were nicknamed "Napoleons". If you do not start their upbringing as a puppy, then the situation can get out of control. Any indulgence on the part of the household over time runs the risk of turning the pet into a bad character trait. Moreover, it is necessary to educate these small dogs in the same way as large ones, showing firmness, perseverance and method.

Spitz are infinitely in love with their master and are happy to please him. Therefore, it is a pleasure to train such pets. They quickly remember commands and like to cope with complex tasks. Dogs can be taught not only to fetch a ball and jump over low barriers, but also to perform various tricks. These animals often participate in circus shows, showing tricks and funny numbers.

Both in the house and in the apartment

Spitz of a small group can be kept both in a country house and in a small apartment. They are not afraid of moving - they can quickly get used to any situation. However, these dogs need enough space for active maneuvers. If there is not much space to keep, daily walks will be a great alternative.

Good health does not exclude complications

Spitz are lucky - they have excellent health, which rarely fails. These dogs remain cheerful and energetic until old age. But even such strong animals can get sick.

Due to their small size, Spitz can develop problems with the skeleton and joints, which sometimes cannot withstand their active lifestyle. Especially if the owner turned his dog into a sofa pet. As a result, dislocations, dysplasia of various levels, injuries, and fractures can be found in dogs.

The unusual anatomical structure of the muzzle can lead to eye problems. With excessive bulge, the eyeballs can be injured and even fall out. Also, the eyes increase tearing or vice versa - dryness.

The structure of the respiratory tract, namely the lack of closed cartilage, leads to prolonged coughing and snoring during sleep.

At the genetic level, hereditary diseases such as malfunctions of the thyroid gland and kidneys can be transmitted to Spitz. Also among these animals, the “black skin disease” is common, when the dog’s hair begins to fall out in large tufts, and the skin on the bald areas begins to darken. Some owners may experience epilepsy in their pet.

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General information:

Suitable for beginners		Need for physical activity
Price of a puppy (average)		Wits
Loyalty to the owner		Love for games
Relationship with other animals		Dirt at home, wool
Noisiness		Character score
Difficulty in content		Is it a good security guard?
Health (except orange)		Team learning

Appearance

The German Spitz is a square dog (the height at the withers is equal to the length of the body), compact, with a deep chest, a straight back and strong limbs.

The sizes of dogs of this breed vary depending on the species:

In size ─ more precisely, in the weight and color of the dogs is the main difference between these variations of the breed.

In some countries, for example, in the USA and Great Britain, Keeshond and Pomeranian are presented as independent breeds.

The coat of all representatives of the breed consists of two layers: a long, non-adjacent guard hair and a dense, cotton-like undercoat.

The color of the German Spitz can be black, brown, white, orange or gray in color. Less common are black and tan, cream, sable and spotted colors. In spotted individuals, white color prevails, and spots are located mainly on the body.

In the photo - a rare black and tan color (Small German Spitz Martin from Nizhny Novgorod)

White spots on a dark background are unacceptable. Intermediate color options are not excluded - orange-sable and cream-sable.

Not all of the above colors are characteristic of each of the varieties of the breed: the Keeshond can only be zoned gray, and the large Spitz is white, black and brown.

Of course, a noticeable difference in height had an effect on certain proportions of dogs, but the differences remained minimal. The three largest varieties have a snout-to-head ratio of 2:3, while the miniature and Miniature Spitz have a 2:4 ratio.

Not too large in relation to the body, the head is wedge-shaped, tapering towards the muzzle. For small representatives of the breed, this gives a resemblance to a fox, which is further enhanced by standing upright, closely spaced triangular small ears.

In this picture on the left is a vicious breeding line of a German Spitz with an egg-shaped skull and a sharp stop (transition from muzzle to forehead). On the right is the breed profile.

The transition from the muzzle to the forehead is moderately pronounced. The nose is small and round, black in color. In brown representatives of the breed, it is dark brown, as well as the pigmentation of the lips and eyelids. For representatives of other colors, only black is allowed here.

The small dark eyes are almond-shaped and set slightly obliquely.

The forelimbs are straight and strong, decorated with feathering, the elbows are close to the chest. The hind legs are also strong and muscular, covered with thick hair down to the hocks.

In the neck and chest area, the coat creates a lush collar, while the muzzle, head and ears are covered with a short velvety coat.

The tail is also decorated with long hair. Set high, it curls into a tight ring, sometimes double, and lies tightly on the back of the dog.

The photo shows a standard German Spitz (mittel) of white color.

Character features

German Spitz are lively and active. They joyfully participate in noisy games and active walks with the owner, but at the same time, in his absence, they are able to show patience and calmness, without destroying everything they can reach out of boredom. If the owner is busy, this pet will not obsessively spin under his feet, but will obediently wait for a walk, and only then will he give free rein to his energy.

Spitz are distrustful of strangers, which, on the one hand, makes them sensitive watchmen, and on the other hand, a rather noisy tenant.

Therefore, even the smallest representatives of this family need to instill good manners in time, showing a certain firmness and not indulging their whims. Do not forget that the small and pygmy spitz, like many small dogs, are not aware of their miniature size and will only obey someone who has managed to win their respect.

The small size can also become an indirect cause of problems in the behavior of the pet: often the owners, considering their crumbs harmless and not dangerous to others, do not attach importance to his upbringing and, as a result, get an uncontrollable, capricious, stupidly barking creature that attacks passers-by and other dogs and children.

With the desire and determination of the owner, the Spitz can even train in shepherd business (of course, as a sports entertainment).

Sometimes these dogs are also used in canis therapy, but not all representatives of the breed can become a therapy dog, since the main condition for training is the complete absence of aggression, and they are not always loyal to strangers.

Care and grooming

The dense coat of the German Spitz requires careful care for it. Daily combing should become a habit for the wearer. You need to bathe the dog every two months, but, if necessary, you can do it more often.

A dog should be taught to water procedures in the bathroom from a very young age, as a result, this procedure will be perceived as a common thing.

Shearing with a machine is categorically contraindicated, and when shearing wool with scissors in order to give it shape, the bottom layer must remain intact. The undercoat of this breed grows very slowly, and its violation may well spoil the quality of the entire coat for a long time.

Family life

Due to its devoted and sociable disposition, the German Spitz is perfect for both a single person and life in a large family. It will become an indispensable companion in the games for children, subject to sufficiently careful handling on their part. The pet does not tolerate rudeness, and the obsessive attention of kids can annoy him.

With other animals in the family, this breed does not always get along peacefully. Although they do not have an extreme hunting instinct that threatens small animals in the home, their cocky nature can cause conflicts. This is illustrated very well by the video posted just above in the article.

Being quite proud personalities, they do not want to be content with secondary roles, they are jealous of their owners, and can start a showdown even with a larger dog. The task of the owner is the timely education of all animals in the house in order to avoid conflicts in the future.

Despite the energetic nature, the German Spitz does not need much physical activity. But he will gladly take part in daily morning runs with the owner or outdoor games.

Representatives of small varieties of the breed can keep company even an elderly person. However, this does not mean that a walk can be replaced by a rest on a bench ─ the presence of active games is the more mandatory the shorter it is.

Renegades

The Pomeranian is the only variety in the breed bred as a toy dog. Like all dwarf breeds, it has certain health problems associated with miniature size. Despite this, the Zwergspitz is a fairly strong breed that can play the role of a companion and win prizes in available sports.

Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the other two recently introduced non-FCI compliant Miniature Spitz pseudo-types, Puppet and Bear. Such puppies are in increasing demand as a "living toy", as they are not allowed to participate in exhibitions, and poor health precludes sports.

Their main feature is in the touchingly short muzzles, causing delight in people who are far from cynology, and, on the contrary, genuine horror in everyone who is not indifferent to the fate of the breed.

The readiness of dishonorable breeders to increase the demand for "toy" dogs at all costs has led to the appearance of pronounced signs of dwarfism in Pomeranians, that is, simply speaking, to the degeneration of the breed.

Such signs include too bulging eyes, an open parietal fontanel and a flattened, excessively shortened muzzle, which makes it difficult for the animal to breathe, which inevitably harms the cardiovascular and nervous system of the animal.

The desire to create the image of "supercharming fluffy" has not bypassed the breeders of standard show-class Pomeranians: dogs with certain features that do not quite meet the standard can be increasingly found in show rings.

characteristic diseases

In general, the German Spitz is a healthy and strong breed that is resistant to harsh weather conditions.

Typical diseases include rashes and irritation on the skin during the hot season, which is a consequence of the presence of thick dense wool and is prevented with the help of high-quality grooming.

Large representatives of the breed have hip dysplasia.

Most of the diseases that small Spitz are susceptible to are characteristic of the bulk of pygmy dogs:

problems with teeth during their change (milk teeth often need to be removed);
the formation of tartar;
increased lacrimation from the eyes (mainly in individuals with an excessively short muzzle;
joint defects;
obesity;
tracheal collapse.

In order to avoid acquiring a puppy with a lot of congenital diseases, you need to pay special attention to the health of his parents and under no circumstances buy a dog from random people.

Colour: Wolfspitz or Keeshonds are always zoned grey. Large Spitz can be white, black, brown. Medium, small and dwarf Spitz are white, orange, sable gray, black, cream, cream sable, orange sable, black and tan, spotted.
Varieties: Keeshond or Wolfspitz, Large Spitz, Medium Spitz, Small Spitz, Dwarf or Pomeranian
Lifespan: under 16

Advantages and disadvantages

A reliable watchman, but without excessive aggressiveness
Variety of sizes
Not overly aggressive
Feels great on the street
Wool is odorless
Gets along well with other dogs and cats

Small dogs are often painful
Large varieties require long walks and exercise
Small Spitz are very talkative

Description of the breed

The German Spitz is currently a breed group. Each of the growth varieties is exhibited and bred separately. Sometimes litters have puppies that are too small or too big. In this case, the dog undergoes an expert assessment and its pedigree is changed, indicating the correct growth variety.

The word spitz is now used as a common noun to refer to all spitz-like dogs. They are distinguished by a fox pointed muzzle, small high-set ears, small eyes, a format close to square and a tail thrown over the back.

German Spitz are versatile dogs. They have proven themselves not only as companions, but also as guards and athletes. Human orientation distinguishes German dogs from other breeds of the fifth group. These dogs are easy to train, love to interact with people, get along well with children and other pets.

The most fashionable in our time, small Spitz are excellent companions for city dwellers. Only hair care for them is a prerequisite. Short summer haircuts often cause colds and pneumonia. Therefore, for the sake of convenience, you should not cut your dogs short for the summer. Their wool works like a thermostat at any time of the year.

Spitz quickly adapt to the lifestyle of their owner. Some of them feel good, even if they rarely go out and spend all the time in the apartment. They easily get used to the tray, but life locked up spoils the character of the dogs, making them insecure, cowardly, overly attached to the owners. This behavior complicates the journey with the dog, as well as its display at the exhibition.

Height at withers for males and females:

Keeshond or Wolfspitz - 43-55 cm

Large spitz - 42-50 cm

Medium spitz - 30-38 cm

Small Spitz - 23-29 cm

Dwarf or Pomeranian - 18-22 cm.

Keeshond or Wolfspitz - 25-30 kg

Large spitz - 17-20 kg

Medium spitz - 8-12 kg

Small Spitz - 4-7 kg

Miniature or Pomeranian - 3.5 kg

German Spitz breed standard

The German Spitz belongs to the fifth breed group of the FCI. These are primitive dogs, close in appearance to ancestral forms.

The ratio of height at the withers to the length of the body for all Spitz should be 1 to 1. This means that these dogs have a square format. These are attentive, loyal and agile dogs, universal companions and guards. Spitz are not very susceptible to bad weather conditions, they are distinguished by longevity and enviable health.

The head of these dogs is of medium size, broader at the skull and tapering towards the muzzle. The nose is small, the muzzle is not long. Stop moderate. In large Spitz, the length of the muzzle correlates with the length of the skull as 2 to 3, and in small Spitz, as 1 to 2. Scissor bite. Lips close fitting. Eyes of medium size, somewhat elongated. Eyelids are dry. The ears are small, pointed, triangular, set high and close together.

The neck is of medium length, slightly arched. It has a chic wool collar. The withers are high. The back is strong, short. The tail is fluffy, thrown over the back. The loin is short, strong. The croup is sloping, short, of good width.

The chest is deep, with a long sternum. The abdomen is small, well tucked up.

The tail is of medium length, rounded on the back from the very base. Double curl is allowed.

The limbs are straight with well-defined angles, muscular, with collected cat's paws. Desirable long, oblique shoulder blade, developed forbrust. The angle of the humeroscapular joint is straight. The angle of the knee joint is moderately pronounced.

Movements are energetic and smooth.

The coat is double, consisting of a hard outer and dressing hair, under which there is a short and dense cotton undercoat, giving the dog its unique appearance. The head, ears, paws in their front part are covered with short velvet hair.

The vices include

Curly or wavy coat, parting on the back.

Apple-shaped head, typical of the Chihuahua, straight head.

A bite different from scissors.

Light eyes, nose and eyelid rims.

Dark muzzle in zoned dogs.

White spots on solid colored dogs.

Entropion or ectropion.

Incomplete teeth for large and medium varieties.

Hanging or semi-erect ears

Short, docked or not curled tail.

Cryptorchidism in males.

The nature and characteristics of the German Spitz

The main feature of the German Spitz breed is its diversity. Different sizes of dogs make Spitz very popular in a variety of areas - from hunting and property protection to exhibition and modeling activities.

A lion's mane, a fluffy tail thrown over its back, an attentive and curious fox muzzle, small erect ears and a square body are the breed features of a German Spitz of any size. It is difficult to confuse this dog with another breed of the fifth group precisely because of these features.

Another breed feature is the coat of the dog. It has a pronounced awn and a short dense undercoat. In summer, these dogs shed, but in winter they dress in lush collars and fur coats.

Spitz are active dogs without excess aggression. Even little Pomeranians successfully participate in agility competitions and feel much better with regular sufficient walking. Only the smallest dogs weighing up to 2 kg can be in poor health and prefer life in an apartment with a toilet in a tray.

Large Spitz are excellent watchdogs, and besides, they have proven themselves well as dogs for moving loads in a team. They willingly drag sleds, tow skiers, and run after bicycles.

Caring for a German Spitz is quite simple. It includes regular combing of wool, especially if the dog lives in a warm apartment and sheds all year round, examination of the ears, teeth and eyes.

The coat of the Spitz has a pronounced seasonal shedding. At this time, it needs to be combed out frequently until the old coat is shed completely. Many owners at this time cut their dogs very short. This should not be done, because if the dog loses its natural protection against temperature changes, the dog may catch a cold or even get pneumonia.

Exhibition Spitz require mandatory, regular grooming. For them, special cosmetics are produced that prevent the formation of tangles and facilitate their combing. Bathing Spitz requires care and accuracy - his coat gets wet badly and dries slowly. Incompletely dried hair can cause a dog to catch a cold even in the warm season.

After bathing, they do not wipe the Spitz, but blot it with towels until the water stops remaining on it. Intensive wiping electrifies the coat, after which new tangles are formed. Dry with a hair dryer, making sure that the coat is dry to the skin. The special grooming of show dogs gives them the correct silhouette and expressiveness of lines, emphasizing their advantages and hiding minor flaws.

The ears of the Spitz are well ventilated and usually do not need special care. It is enough to inspect them weekly and if brown discharge or an unpleasant odor appear, they consult a doctor.

The small eyes of these dogs also rarely get sick. An entropion, or inversion of the eyelids, occurs in the breed and can be corrected surgically. Every day, accumulated dirt should be removed from the corners of the eyes, and if abundant yellowish discharge appears, consult a doctor.

Dogs that do not walk much may have problems with the paraanal glands. They are located on both sides of the anus and are designed to produce an odorous secret with which dogs mark their territory. When fed soft foods and not enough movement, the glands can become inflamed and need regular cleaning. This problem is especially common in small dogs.

Spitz teeth require regular brushing. This can be done by the owner with a special powder and brush. As an option, the dog can be offered special bones and sticks marked dental, or food with a large granule, chewing which the dog brushes his teeth. Large raw beef bones are well suited for brushing your teeth.

Feeding the German Spitz

German Spitz cannot be called gourmets or gourmets. The exception is the smallest of these dogs, which, due to their size, often acquire incorrect eating habits, preferring treats to proper feeding. This is largely facilitated by their owners, who allow dogs to choose and beg.

The basis of the Spitz's diet is usually meat and offal. Beef, horse meat, lamb, and also poultry are great for these dogs as the basis of the diet. They are given raw if the supplier has proven himself well. If the origin of meat products is unknown, it is better to boil them a little.

Allergies are common among light-colored Spitz, so chicken and wheat, the most common allergens, are usually excluded from their diet.

Dairy products are also a good source of protein. It can be low-fat cottage cheese, kefir, yogurt, fermented baked milk, as well as yogurt.

As a source of carbohydrates, you can use rice, buckwheat and oatmeal. In winter, dogs kept on the street can add millet to the mixture.

Spitz willingly eat vegetables and fruits. The most useful are apples, carrots, you can also give zucchini, pumpkin, as well as seasonal fruits to the taste of the dog. Stewed vegetables and fruits are seasoned with sunflower or olive oil.

Natural food requires the regular use of vitamin preparations, which are selected based on the age and physiological state of the dog. Dogs require special supplements during active growth, sports, molting, pregnancy, lactation, and also after 6 years.

When choosing a ready-made food for your Spitz, you need to focus on their composition indicated on the label, and not on the brand names, since it often happens that the food called “lamb and rice” includes wheat and chicken.

german spitz puppies

German Spitz puppies are charming lumps with the appearance of fashion models. Already at the age of one or two months, they have all the properties characteristic of the breed. Only coat and color change. Red dogs are born gray or almost black and lighten with age. The same applies to red spots on spotted dogs. In some cases, it is possible to distinguish them from zone-gray not earlier than one and a half to two months. This must be taken into account if you plan to purchase a dog of a particular color.

You should not buy a very small puppy even if you want the dog to be a show dog. It is better to take a teenager whose teeth have already changed, the testicles have descended and the skeleton and coat have formed. At the age of over 6 months, it is already possible to almost accurately determine the height and weight that an adult dog will have. This means that you won’t have to redo her documents for another height category if she suddenly outgrows. It often happens that puppies are born in a Pomeranian litter that develop into dwarf ones and vice versa.

If you still decide to get a small puppy, then you need to be prepared that all these problems will be yours. In a friendly family of a breeder, dogs receive the necessary education and do not suffer from a lack of socialization. A responsible breeder always provides puppies with the necessary level of communication not only with their mother, but also with other dogs in the kennel. Puppies raised in a pack have all the necessary social skills by the age of 3 months and will quickly get used to their own kind.

You should not take puppies from a shy, aggressive bitch who rushes at incoming customers or hides in fear in a corner. Puppies from such a mother will not please with a pleasant temperament and will create a lot of problems with their behavior.

The popularity of the breed was the reason for the birth of a huge number of Spitz-like mestizos. When purchasing such a puppy inexpensively and without documents, keep in mind that for adults it will very vaguely resemble artsy German Spitz, although it will be distinguished by enviable health and often remarkable intelligence. The main thing is to understand this and love the dog as it is, not paying attention to the shortcomings of the exterior. Better yet, in search of an inexpensive spitz-shaped dog, go to a shelter.

German Spitz training

Spitzes are very pleasant, intelligent dogs, combining readiness for a variety of work and physical exertion and the absence of excessive temperament. Infantile, shy, nervous individuals are found among small varieties due to their uncontrolled breeding. This is the same breeding marriage that should not be allowed for breeding, however, with an excellent exterior, breeders manage to hide problematic behavior with the help of medicines and training.

Something in such a dog can be corrected, but most of the congenital problems can only be mitigated.

When choosing a dog, it is important to know what it is for. Raising a companion and training a sports or guard dog are different methods and programs, often incompatible with each other. Those who want to achieve real success in sports with their Spitz should not often change the direction of training, but you can develop a companion dog in many ways if high achievements are not needed and classes are held for fun and good mood.

Spitz are intelligent dogs. Basic skills such as shrinking, laying, calling, they learn very quickly and it is important that the owner understands that the accuracy of these commands depends on the number of repetitions. The more repetitions, the faster the conditioned reflex is formed when the dog executes the command without thinking. However, we are not talking about repeating the same thing for half an hour in a row. Much more useful are 5-minute workouts during the day, carried out in different places - at home, on the street, in the park.

Often a dog that works great on the playground does not want to move around at all on a regular walk or even on the way to class. This happens because the owner behaves differently and does not achieve the correct execution of commands if he is just walking. As a result, the dog understands that commands are required only on the site and behaves accordingly.

If the owners do not have experience with dogs, you need to find an experienced dog handler who has the skills of conflict-free training using encouragement. If the dog is interested in toys, tug should often be played with it, allowing the prey to be carried away at the end of the game. In the future, this will allow you to use the toy as a reward along with a treat. Do not pull toys too hard with small Spitz - this can cause malocclusion.

History of the breed

The German Spitz is a descendant of ancient peat dogs that lived in Europe in the Stone Age. Often, the Spitz-shaped dog of Lake Dweller, found by archaeologists a little later, is also attributed to their ancestors.

The initial job of the Spitz was to protect the territory and help in grazing and driving livestock. The first mention of these dogs dates back to the 15th century. However, already in the century, the fashion for them penetrated into the aristocratic environment, and systematic breeding began. Its main goal was to reduce the size and pleasant temperament of the dogs. In different parts of Germany, different varieties of these dogs were bred. Ahens, Krefeld and Düsseldorf were famous for their large Wolfspitz. Wurtenberg - dogs of black and brown colors, and Pomerania - breeding of the smallest dogs of this breed.

Medieval spitz were significantly larger than modern small varieties and weighed about 14 kg. Their images can be found in the paintings of medieval artists, where dogs accompany noble persons. There are letters from Charlotte, the wife of King George III, dedicated to the four dogs she ordered from Pomerania. She wrote to Lord Harcourt about two of them, Mercury and Phoebe, and recommended keeping an eye on them so they wouldn't be stolen.

The letter is dated November 28, 1767. Pomerania is now called East Germany. This area is located on the coast of the Baltic Sea.

Charlotte's dogs were not small and had a white color. Over time, cream, orange and sand colors became more popular. In 1888, Queen Victoria brought a dog named Marco from Florence to the UK. At the end of the century, these dogs also appeared in the USA, where the direction of their breeding for a long time differed from the European one.

The creation of the first English club of German Spitz lovers is connected with the Kraft exhibition in 1891. At the same time, the first breed standard was adopted. At the exhibition, these dogs were shown for the first time in the year. Then they were allowed only in the mixed class. Dogs received the rights to act as a separate group in 1900. It happened in New York.

In Europe, the monobreed club was initiated by Charles Kramerer. His letter dated April 13, 1899 called on all Spitz lovers to unite. The first to join the club were Fritz Reimann and Karl Wolfsholz, as well as Albert Kull. The club's first meeting was held in Frankfurt am Main in 1900. The release of the first stud book of the society dates back to 1913.

The owners of German Spitz were such august persons as Empresses Catherine, Marie Antoinette, as well as Michelangelo, politician Martin Luther, writer Emile Zola, composer Mozart, Ludwig Richter and others.

The first German Spitz monobreed show was held not in Germany, but in the USA. It happened in 1911. Then three sizes were recognized in the breed:

Large Spitz up to 45 cm

Medium Spitz up to 38 cm at the withers

Dwarf Spitz up to 25 cm.

The current breed standard was written in the post-war years. During its existence, it has undergone only minor changes.

The coat of large Spitz is practically odorless. With regular grooming, these dogs do not drop it around the house, all of it remains on the comb.

In Denmark and the Netherlands, large German Spitz are called Keeshonds. They accompany sailors, destroying rats and guarding ships and barges.

The most ugly Spitz at one time were Spanish. This was due to the fact that the royals of this country were not distinguished by beauty and sought to surround themselves with ugly servants and dogs.

Small "Napoleons" - this is what some owners call their charming German Spitz. This breed has been known since feudal Europe. True, at that time they had other characteristics, in particular, height and weight. If earlier they were almost 14 kg, then in the process of selection, babies were bred, whose weight is only approaching 6 kilograms.

Description of the breed

A detailed breed standard is spelled out in the relevant document dated 01/25/2013. This FCI standard number 97 regulates the basic requirements for the breed. The German Pygmy Spitz belongs to the "spitz and primitive dogs" group.

This breed has many varieties, but regardless of this, all dogs have thick, fairly long hair and very small, neat, sharp ears. The ears are set high and always in an upright position.

Wool forms something similar to a mane. The neck is wide.

The Spitz can be recognized by its distinctive muzzle, which is in proportion to the skull but tapers towards the nose. The nose is small and rounded. The color depends on the type of wool. Usually the nose is black, but if the color is brown, then it has a similar variant. The jaws are well developed.

If you look at the muzzle, you can see that the eyes are slightly obliquely set and have a rounded shape.

Above the eyes are dark brown eyelids. Moreover, their color does not depend on the variety of the German Spitz.

The Spitz's chest is distinguished by a developed front part, while the stomach is tucked up. The paws are rounded with dense pads.

Outwardly, this is a very beautiful dog. The dwarf spitz, like the wolfspitz, has a chic and very mobile tail. It fits snugly to the back, and may sometimes have a double loop at the end.

Characteristics of the main indicators of the breed

Wolfspitz (large German Spitz) has a zoned gray color. Its height can reach 55 cm. The minimum height at the withers is 43 cm. The average weight of a dog is 25–30 kg.

The coat of the Mitelspitz (medium Spitz) can be of the following colors:

white;
black;
brown;
grey;
orange;
cream.

The height range at the withers for this subspecies is 30–39 cm. The weight is in the region of 11 kg.

A funny Kleinspitz or a small Spitz usually weighs 8-10 kg. At the same time, its height does not exceed 29 cm. The color of the baby can be as diverse as that of a larger brother.

Zwergspitz or miniature spitz has the following parameters:

height at the withers 18–22 cm;
weight 5–7 kg.

This baby most often attracts the attention of those who want to give a gift to loved ones. The white dwarf spitz is especially popular. If the choice fell on a black dog, you need to make sure that the color is uniform. This is the best sign of the breed.

The nature of the German Spitz

Like many other dogs, the German Spitz is very loyal to his owners, demonstrating invariably his friendly qualities. Dogs of this breed are affectionate and friendly. Unlike some other breeds, small dogs are not pushy. With outsiders they behave cautiously, but without aggression. At the same time, they are able to become good guards of the personal property of the owners.

The German Spitz energizes those around him with his cheerfulness and activity. No wonder they began to be used even in circus performances. Moreover, its activity persists until old age.

He rightfully becomes a full-fledged member of the family, a true friend and a lover to participate in joint affairs. If necessary, he can show determination and courage. They can even get into a fight with dogs on a walk, especially if they see aggression towards their little owners.

Dogs of this breed are very adaptable, usually adjusting to the style and rhythm of their owners' lives. It is hard to endure the forced separation from their owners.

They love attention and try to attract it, sometimes even barking for this. But they will not bother their owners. If attention is not enough, they can withdraw into themselves.

German Spitz are easy to train. Able to execute standard and complex commands. They love to overcome difficulties.

Dogs' favorite activities are walking, preferably off-leash, running, playing and swimming. Those who are going to acquire such a friend should be prepared for long walks in the fresh air.

If the family has small children, then you can count on the fact that the Spitz, especially the dwarf one, will become his nanny. With children, they show balance, so you should not be afraid that the dog causes harm to the child in response to his games. Of course, children should not be allowed to do whatever they want with a dog. After all, the German Spitz will endure pain to the last, and this can damage the dog itself.

Given the peculiarities of the dog's psyche, you should not show aggression towards it during education and training. They remember this very well, which can later lead to changes in behavior.

Color of puppies

A feature of the puppy of the German dwarf spitz is that there is a color change. If the nose, lips and eyelids of the baby are black, you can count on the fact that the dog itself will be black. For everyone else, after 2 months, changes may already begin. The final color is formed by the age of three.

White puppies due to the rarity of their breeding are more expensive. The appearance of cream puppies is deceiving. To understand whether it will subsequently be white, you should check the hair behind the ears. If she is non-white, then you should expect an orange or brown puppy.

Features of care

Despite the fact that the German Spitz has a small size, he is prone to obesity. Therefore, nutrition must be balanced. In addition, you should introduce a feeding schedule that the dog gets used to fairly easily. Puppies should be fed according to the recommendations of the breeders. Adult dogs must receive:

Meat.
Fish without bones.
Porridge based on rice or buckwheat.
Dairy products.
Vegetables, except for potatoes.

In no case should children be spoiled with bones or products containing bones, as well as pasta, flour products, sausages, etc.

In order for the coat to be always well-groomed and beautiful, a lot of effort should be made to maintain it in good condition. The presence of an abundant undercoat creates the feeling that the dog is constantly with a haircut. The main mats are observed in the area of the ears, between the fingers, sometimes in the groin. You need to comb the dog on the table with a frequency of 2-3 times a week. In order for the dog to behave calmly, you can offer her to gnaw pig ears.

To participate in exhibitions, you will have to master combing against wool.

Those who want to get a dog are usually interested in how long a pygmy spitz lives. On average, they will stay with their owners for 12–15 years, but quite often, under favorable conditions, these beauties live up to 20 years. All these years, a smart German Spitz will delight his owners.

A small fluffy "Napoleon" with pronounced leadership manners, backed up by unshakable courage and adventurism - this is a German Spitz, a dog with a fox muzzle and a lion's mane. A fur ball with a nose, ears and small paws, running merrily on a leash, is difficult to confuse with any other breed. Behind the frivolous appearance are excellent watchdog characteristics and a long history. We offer you to get acquainted with the breed, its distinctive features, abilities and temperament closer.

History of the breed

One can only argue about the origin of the German Spitz breed. According to one theory, Spitz descended from swamp (peat) dogs, the remains of which were found by archaeologists in 1862. The age of the remains was attributed to the Neolithic period - the new stone age. If you adhere to this theory, then Spitz can be safely called the oldest breed.

But a theory is just a theory. It is known for certain that selection work with dogs with the same upturned fox muzzles as modern Spitz was carried out already in the 15th century. In the course of evolutionary changes, dogs have become much smaller and have received a pleasant friendly temperament. Several centuries passed before the official recognition of breed standards. It happened only in 1891.

Description of the breed

The dog's coat is its main distinguishing feature - a pronounced guard hair is combined with a short dense (cotton) undercoat. Lush "robe" with a collar and fur coat dogs "wear" in the cold season, in the summer they shed. The breed has several growth varieties - this allows Spitz to be actively used in various fields of activity: protection of territory and property, hunting, movement of goods, modeling activities.

Breed standard set by the International Cynological Association (FCI)

Body type. proportional.
Back. Short, with a wide and strong lumbar region.
Stomach. Fit.
Breast. Deep.
limbs- straight, parallel with a developed muscular system. "Pants" of thick wool on the hind limbs.
Paws. The front ones are small, “cat-like”. Brown - in individuals of a chocolate hue. The rest of the colors are black. The back is less rounded than the front. Dark pads with rough skin.
Gait. Free. Step - trot. Movements are graceful.
Neck. Set high. Wool forms a "mane". The nape is slightly curved.
Head. The back is much wider than the front. Tapers wedge-shaped towards the tip of the nose.
Muzzle- "fox". proportionately built. The skull is medium in size.
cheekbones- not protruding, smooth roundness.
Nose. With a small round lobe. In brown (chocolate) individuals, the lobe is dark brown. The rest of the colors are black.
Lips. No folds. Tight fit. All colors except brown are black. In brown individuals - brown.
Bite. Scissor. A direct bite is not a basis for disqualification. The dentition is 42 teeth.
Ears. Small, triangular in shape with sharp, hard ends. They stand high.
Eyes. Oval dark. Small size. Set obliquely. Brown individuals have brown eyelids. The rest are black.
Tail. Medium in size with thick, fluffy coat. Set high, carried over the back. A double ring is allowed.
Leather. No wrinkles, tight fit.
Wool cover. With double wool. The guard hair is straight, long, not tight. The undercoat is short, dense with a cottony texture. On the neck and shoulders - a thick "mane". On the hind limbs "pants". Without a wave, not shaggy, it does not fall apart into a parting.
Color. Wolfspitz - silver gray with black tips (wolf); large Spitz - snow-white, black, chocolate; medium, small and zwergspitz - white, black, orange, chocolate, red, wolf, other colors (cream, spotted, sable, black and tan, orange-sable, cream-sable, brindle).
Growth at the withers. Wolfspitz (Keeshond) - 43-55 cm; grossspitz (large) - 42-50 cm; mittelspitz (medium) - 30-38 cm; Kleinspitz (Small German Spitz) - 23-29 cm; Zwergspitz (Pomeranian) - 18-22 cm.
Weight. Should be commensurate with growth. Zwergspitz do not exceed 3 kg, large representatives of the breed reach 30 kg.

Reference! in the FCI standard, the name of the breed is: "German Spitz, including Keeshond and Pomeranian." In the USA and England, the Pomeranian is singled out as a separate unit - the differences between the German Spitz and the Pomeranian are in color, height and weight. Keeshond in these English standards is also considered an independent direction.

The nature of the breed

The German Spitz is a companion dog. It is no coincidence that in previous centuries such pets were bred by emperors and recognized geniuses. Mozart, Michelangelo, Catherine the Great - the list goes on and on. Devotion, boundless courage, and the ability to empathize were valued in dogs. Spitz is ready for anything for the sake of his master. He boldly rushes to defend him, regardless of the size of the enemy. Can endure long exhausting journeys so as not to part with the owner. The interests of the owner are important to him, in separation he is very bored.

Dogs are distinguished by a cheerful disposition and love for loud barking. This feature can cause a lot of trouble for you and your neighbors if you do not wean your pet from a bad habit in a timely manner. Show the Spitz that you do not like this behavior - he will try to please you.

Spitz is a spherical lump of energy. It is always fun and interesting with him. He runs fast. From the side it may seem that the dog is hovering above the ground. Children adore him, he answers them with the same coin. The main thing is to teach children to play with dogs carefully and not to raise them on their knees and other high surfaces so that the pet is not accidentally injured. The devotion of the dog can be envied - the spitz rushes to protect his family with his chest when danger arises and can guard the owner's sleep for hours.

Despite the liveliness and activity, the character of the dog is flexible. It's hard to piss her off. During walks on the street, Spitz behave actively and inquisitively, but do not show aggression. They are completely indifferent to cats and birds, so the breed can be safely brought into the house with other pets. The only warning is to make sure that the little "Napoleon" does not try to dominate over large adult dogs and does not suffer from the claws of hostile cats.

Dogs are highly intelligent and trainable - they are wary of strangers, so you can not be afraid that the dog will accept an unwanted treat from a stranger. The breed calmly endures long trips and loves to swim very much. For the normal development of the dog and its good psychological state, long walks with active games are necessary.

Care and maintenance

Wool is the main asset of a fluffy Spitz, so it should be given a lot of attention from the owner. The coat of the pet is regularly combed out. It is especially important to do this during the seasonal molt - it is combed out until it is completely renewed. A short haircut could make life easier for the owners of the animal, but it is strictly forbidden to do this - the dog can catch a cold. Thick, dense coat is a natural heat regulator and protection against sudden changes in temperature. Grooming in a special form is needed only for exhibition dogs - it is done in salons immediately before the show.

They bathe dogs if necessary, without fail they do it before exhibitions. The coat of the Spitz is very thick, it does not get wet and dries very slowly. A fur coat that is not completely dried can cause a cold even in summer. After water procedures, the dogs are thoroughly dried, gently blotting with a towel. You can not intensively rub the wool, it is electrified from this, which contributes to the appearance of new tangles. Blow dry with a hair dryer until completely dry.

The ears of the breed stand well, they do not need special care. All that is required is a weekly inspection and gentle cleaning with a cotton swab dipped in boiled water or chamomile decoction. Dirt from the corners of the eyes is also cleaned with a damp swab.

The paraanal glands require special care, they must be regularly cleaned of the accumulated secret. Especially those dogs that are kept at home and rarely go outside. Because of this, the glands can become inflamed. Smaller breeds are most often affected by this problem.

The teeth of German Spitz are cleaned with a special brush with tooth powder or paste. Well remove plaque from the teeth sticks and bones for dogs, which are sold in pet stores. For the same purpose, large beef bones are suitable - give them to dogs raw.

When keeping a pet at home, you need to allocate a place with a comfortable bed. It is advisable to organize it somewhere out of sight of everyone - dogs love to retire. A distinctive feature of the breed is that puppies of clean Spitz, no worse than cats, are taught to go to the toilet in a tray. The main thing is not to shame or scold the kids during the learning process. Use affection and praise for this - the dogs will quickly understand what you are trying to achieve from them.

Training

German Spitz are inquisitive, balanced animals, positive and ready for vigorous activity and varied work. Excessive infantilism, nervousness and shyness are breed defects that are sometimes found due to uncontrolled breeding from unscrupulous breeders.

Starting to train a dog, you need to decide how it will be used. If you want to raise a companion, one method of education must be applied. If you plan to use the dog for sports or protection - another. Programs are mutually exclusive, so they should not be changed and alternated.

Spitz quickly learn commands from the basic training course: “Come to me”, “Sit”, “Lie down”, “Place”, “Next”. It is necessary to work out the command until the animal develops a conditioned reflex - to automatism. This is achieved by the frequency of repetitions. When it comes to rep frequency, we don't mean hours of grueling workouts. Commands are best remembered if they are repeated for 5 minutes, but do this several times during the day in different places.

Training tips:

Be consistent - the dog must follow the command correctly at all times, and not just on the training ground.
Don't yell at the dog. Be firm but gentle. Reward with words and treats.
Use toys to reward dogs that enjoy tugging games.
Entrust the upbringing of a puppy to an experienced cynologist.

Health status

The German Spitz is a dog with strong immunity. With proper care, he can live up to 14 years. But this breed also has its weaknesses:

Teeth. Untimely loss of milk teeth can lead to malocclusion. Tartar must be removed periodically to keep your dog's teeth.
Joints and bones. A common problem is subluxation of the knee joint. Small fragile bones - the risk of bruises and fractures is likely.
GIT. Do not overfeed your pet - Spitz have a tendency to obesity. Extra pounds provoke the development of dysbacteriosis.
Eyes. Due to the special structure of the head, dogs often have watery eyes. Especially in hot weather and when dust gets on the mucous membrane of the eyes.
Pituitary. The breed is prone to such pathology as nanism. With it, puppies do not produce growth hormone, and they do not grow. The disease is incurable.
Larynx. The cartilage of the larynx in the German Spitz has a special structure - an open ring shape. This is the cause of spasm when the dog is scared, stressed, actively moving. Spasm of the larynx causes an atypical cough. It is easy to relieve spasm - you need to calm the dog, take it in your arms and gently stroke its throat from top to bottom.

An important role for the healthy development of the pet is the observance of the vaccination schedule, regular preventive examinations at the veterinarian and a balanced quality diet.

What to feed a German Spitz

These decorative dogs are not gourmets. But the quality of wool, the health of teeth and internal organs, and the general state of immunity will depend on the balance of their diet.

The first days of Spitz puppies are fed food that the breeder gave them. After a few weeks, you can gradually switch to the selected type of food: natural or dry food. Feeding dry food is convenient, but choose high-end food - it contains all the necessary components, vitamins and minerals.

The best brands of industrial feed:

SCHESIR Toy Maintenance with Chicken;
APPLAWS Adult Small&Medium Breed Chicken with Lamb;
GRANDORF ADULT 4 MEAT & BROWN RICE;
Bosch Mini Adult;
Farmina Chicken and Pomegranate Adult Mini.

Important! When choosing industrial feed, it should be remembered that Spitz is often allergic to corn, wheat - carefully study the composition!

The natural diet of this active dog should include:

Meat is a source of animal proteins. Lean lamb, horse meat or beef is best suited. The meat is given in pieces, pre-frozen. Minced meat is poorly digested - it is not recommended to give it.
Eggs are a natural source of protein, iodine, choline and many vitamins. The egg is given no more than twice a week in the form of an omelet or chopped boiled.
Fish is a source of trace elements. They are given boiled without bones.
Kefir and cottage cheese are sources of calcium.
Cereals: oatmeal, buckwheat, rice. Cereals are given in the form of porridge.
Vegetables and fruits are given in any form.
Fish fat.
Vitamin and mineral complexes corresponding to the age and condition of the animal.

Prohibited Products:

wheat flour products;
pearl barley;
sweets;
pickled and salted vegetables;
semolina;
canned food;
sausages, smoked meats, sausages and sausages;
meat and poultry with tubular bones.

Important! There should always be fresh clean water in the pet's drinker. A dog weighing 2.5 kg drinks up to 150 ml per day. water. The daily norm of food for a dog of this weight is 75-80 gr. The generally accepted formula for calculating the daily allowance of food: 3% of the dog's weight.

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Lacquer black. Beautiful uniform color over the entire surface of the body without inclusions.

Rare white color. Puppies of this color are especially appreciated.

Chocolate. There are various shades from dark brown to chocolate beige.

Red (orange). Pure red hair without dark patches. The hair on the muzzle, ears and tip of the tail is "burnt".

Wolf (silver). Gray wool with a silvery hue with dark tips. There is a beautiful "mask" on the muzzle.

Cream - varies from white to sandy.

Pati-color (spotted). Spots of various shapes and colors are scattered on the white body.