It Started In Japan

 

The Japanese Spitz was developed in Japan during the 1920s and 30s by crossbreeding several Spitz-type breeds. It is thought that the breed started with German Spitz dogs bred to various small white Spitz-type breeds that were imported from around the world. The goal of the breeders was to produce a dog that would sport an attractive coat and have a personality that would make them a good companion for families.  The first Standard for the breed wasn’t published in Japan until after World War II,  The final breed standard was written around 1945 and was accepted by the Japanese Kennel Club in 1948.  After this point, the breed began to gain popularity throughout Japan and into England.  Since then, the breed standard remains unchanged and this dog’s popularity has spread globally.

A New Breed Standard

The breed standard set out by the Federation Cynologique Internationale describes the Japanese Spitz as a medium dog, with a wide pointed muzzle, triangular pricked ears, and a large, fluffy tail that curls over their back.  They also have a mane around their neck, giving them an almost lion-like appearance.  The pure white double coat is the most obvious feature of this dog breed’s appearance.  Ideally, Japanese Spitz usually stand between 12 to 15 inches tall and weigh between 8 and 14 kg.  However, the breed standard does vary somewhat between kennel clubs. 

Low Maintenance and Healthy Breed

Years of careful breeding has resulted in a beautiful, healthy, and easy-to-care-for breed.  Despite their abundance of pure white fur, the Japanese Spitz is normally very low maintenance.  Due to the low amount of oil in their coat, they have very few skin conditions and can stay odor-free and white for years without a bath.  Normally, a weekly brushing is sufficient to keep them looking their best.  And typically, the Japanese Spitz is very healthy and usually lives from 10 to 16 years old, making them one of the longest-living dog breeds.