Japanese Spitz — size comparison

The Japanese Spitz is white with abundant, stand-off hair, dark eyes and a black nose. It has small erect ears, a slightly elongated muzzle and a bushy tail carried over the back. Longer neck hair forms a distinct ruff. Dark head details contrast strongly with white, producing a distinctive appearance.

It developed from white spitz dogs imported into Japan in the first half of the twentieth century. Early Tokyo appearances occurred around 1921, with later imports from several countries adding to breeding. The Japan Kennel Club established a unified standard in 1948. It developed as a companion retaining the compact build and vigilance typical of spitz dogs.

It is usually lively, cheerful and strongly interested in family contact. It readily accepts invitations to play and joins daily activities. New sounds or guests quickly attract attention and may prompt barking. It can be bold and relaxed in familiar surroundings. Learning ability aids shared activities, while curiosity encourages independent investigation of nearby novelties.

Measurement sources

• Wzorzec FCI i masa — Dimensions
• AKC — długość życia, pielęgnacja i historia