German Spitz
The German Spitz is a family of breeds of one type, from the tiny Pomeranian to the large Wolfspitz (Keeshond); this dog's size is not specified. All Spitzes are fluffy, alert and devoted companions who love attention and bark readily. If you know the variety, pick it in the catalogue for exact weight and height.
Life expectancy
12–16 years
Activity
moderate
Shedding
high
Barking tendency
high
Apartment friendly
Small and medium Spitzes do well in apartments; larger ones need more space. The main challenge is barking: without training a Spitz loudly reacts to every sound outside the door.
Care
Brush down to the undercoat 2–3 times a week, daily when shedding. Do not shave the coat — it can disrupt regrowth. Brush the teeth regularly. The Spitz is clever and lively: it needs daily walks and play, and training so it does not bark at everything.
Health
Patellar luxation, dental disease, alopecia X (non-itchy hair loss), progressive retinal atrophy; collapsing trachea in the smaller sizes
Coat
Double coat: long, straight, stand-off outer coat over a thick, fluffy undercoat, with a mane around the neck
Travel
Small Spitzes often fly in the cabin in a carrier, while large ones must go in the hold; check with the airline based on the dog's weight with the carrier. The thick coat makes heat hard to bear, so bring water and never leave the dog in the car.
Harness size
Depends on the variety: from XXS–XS for a Pomeranian to M–L for a Wolfspitz. Fit by chest girth; small Spitzes should always wear a harness, as a collar presses on the trachea.
Leash
A light 1.5–2 m leash or a retractable lead for the small varieties; a regular sturdy leash for the large ones. Always on a harness.
Hani Walk — walk tracking, a digital pet passport and vaccination reminders, always at hand in the app.