The German Spitz (Mittel)

Appearance

An almost square dog with a magnificent double coat that forms a ruff around the neck. The German Spitz has pricked ears and a coated tail that falls forward over the back. German Spitz have an alert face with oval eyes. An intelligent face is a breed feature.

History

German Spitz are one of the oldest European Spitz breeds and are native to Germany. They were kept by families as companion and watch dogs. They warn of strangers but are not attack or guard dogs as such. They are related to the other European Spitz and it is probable that other Spitz, such as the Volpino, are descended from the German Spitz. The original Pomeranian in Victorian England was a German Spitz and the Pomeranian was bred smaller in size to suit the contemporary tastes.

Temperament

Lively, happy and very good companions – they love to play and exercise. They are very much people oriented and thrive on human company. 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.

Care / 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.

Health

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.

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