Japanese Spitz
The Good
- Relatively small size
- Active and energetic nature
- Great loyalty to their owner
- Attractive appearance
The Real
- Don't handle being alone well
- Considered quite a noisy breed
- White coat shows dirt easily
- Can be wary of strangers
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Japanese Spitz is like having a fluffy white cloud with personality living in your home. These compact companions pack a lot of charm into their 5-10 kg frames, making them perfect for Australian families who want a dog that's big on character but manageable in size.
What really sets these dogs apart is their stunning pure white double coat and fox-like expression, complete with those alert triangular ears that seem to catch every sound in the neighbourhood. They're natural comedians who genuinely seem to enjoy making their families laugh, and trust me, they're quite good at it.
In Australian homes, Japanese Spitz adapt beautifully to various living situations - whether you're in a Sydney apartment or have a sprawling backyard in Perth. They're particularly well-suited to our climate, though you'll want to time those summer walks carefully in places like Darwin or Brisbane. Their moderate exercise needs mean a good daily walk and some backyard play will keep them content.
These dogs form incredibly strong bonds with their families and genuinely want to be involved in everything you do. They're the type of dog that'll happily join you for weekend trips to the coast or settle in for a Netflix session on the couch. Just be prepared for their tendency to announce visitors - they take their watchdog duties seriously, which your neighbours might not always appreciate in close-quarters living situations.
History
History
The Japanese Spitz has a somewhat mysterious past, largely because many breeding records were destroyed during World War II. What we do know is fascinating - these beautiful dogs first appeared in Japan around 1920, likely descended from white German Spitz dogs that made their way to Japan via Siberia and China.
The breed made its official debut in Tokyo in 1921, and Japanese breeders immediately saw the potential in these striking white dogs. They began systematic breeding programs, incorporating bloodlines from various Spitz-type dogs to develop the breed we know today. Some researchers believe there's even Samoyed heritage in their background, which would explain their robust build and that gorgeous coat.
After World War II, the Japanese Spitz began spreading beyond Japan's borders. By the 1950s, they'd reached England and Sweden, quickly gaining popularity across Europe. The English Kennel Club recognised them in 1977, cementing their status as a legitimate breed.
Interestingly, while they've gained recognition worldwide, American kennel clubs have been hesitant to recognise the Japanese Spitz, considering them too similar to the American Eskimo Dog. However, this hasn't stopped them from winning hearts globally. In 2019, the American Kennel Club finally added them to their Foundation Stock Program, acknowledging their unique qualities.
Today, Japanese Spitz are beloved family companions worldwide, including here in Australia, where their adaptable nature and moderate size make them ideal for our diverse lifestyles and living situations.
Traits & Characteristics
Japanese Spitz characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Japanese Spitz are generally robust dogs with fewer health issues than many other breeds, which is great news for Australian owners. With proper care, you can expect your fluffy mate to live a healthy 12-14 years, though like all breeds, they do have some conditions to watch for.
Patellar luxation is probably the most common concern - this is when the kneecap slips out of place. You might notice your dog occasionally skipping or limping during walks around your local park. Most cases are manageable, though severe instances might need surgical correction. Regular vet check-ups can catch this early.
There's also a rare inherited condition called muscular dystrophy that affects some Japanese Spitz. Symptoms typically appear around 10-12 weeks of age and include difficulty eating, excessive drooling, and exercise intolerance. Reputable breeders should test for this genetic condition, so always ask about health testing when choosing a puppy.
Factor VII deficiency is another inherited bleeding disorder to be aware of. Dogs with this condition may bruise easily or bleed excessively after injury or surgery. Again, responsible breeders test for this, and knowing your dog's status helps your vet plan appropriate care.
Like many white-coated breeds, Japanese Spitz can be prone to allergies, particularly in Australia's varied climate conditions. You might notice skin irritation or excessive scratching, especially during high pollen seasons in places like Melbourne or Adelaide.
Regular dental care is crucial - start brushing those teeth early because the breed is prone to dental issues. Annual professional cleanings and daily home care will keep those pearly whites healthy throughout their life.
Feeding your Japanese Spitz properly is straightforward once you understand their needs. These active little dogs do well on high-quality small-breed dog food that meets nutritional standards, and the good news is you won't be breaking the bank - they don't eat huge amounts.
Adult Japanese Spitz should eat twice daily - morning and evening works perfectly with most Australian family routines. Puppies need three meals a day until they're about a year old to prevent low blood sugar, which can be serious in smaller dogs. Once they hit their first birthday, you can transition to adult food and twice-daily feeding.
The key is choosing a premium small-breed formula that's designed for their higher energy needs and smaller kibble size. Look for foods with quality protein sources and avoid anything with excessive fillers. Your local pet store staff or vet can recommend good Australian brands that suit the breed well.
Portion control is crucial because these dogs can easily become overweight, especially if they're less active during Australia's hotter months. Follow the feeding guidelines on your chosen food, but remember these are starting points - your individual dog's needs might vary based on their activity level and metabolism.
Treats are fantastic training tools for Japanese Spitz, but keep them to about 10% of their daily caloric intake. Avoid human food treats like chocolate, grapes, or anything high in fat. Instead, use small training treats or even pieces of their regular kibble as rewards.
Fresh water should always be available, especially important during Australia's warmer weather. If you're planning beach trips or bush walks, always pack extra water for your fluffy mate.
Here's where Japanese Spitz ownership gets interesting - that gorgeous white coat is both a blessing and a bit of work. The good news is that for most of the year, they're surprisingly low-maintenance. Their coat has an almost magical quality where dirt and mud don't stick, so a muddy adventure often just brushes out once everything dries.
Regular brushing once or twice a week keeps their coat looking magnificent and prevents matting. Use a good quality slicker brush and work through their double coat systematically. During Australia's shedding seasons (typically spring and autumn), you'll need to step up to daily brushing for about 2-3 weeks when they "blow" their undercoat. Trust me, invest in a good vacuum cleaner - you'll need it during these periods.
Bathing should be minimal - maybe once every few months unless they've gotten into something particularly messy during a bush walk or beach adventure. Over-bathing strips their natural oils and can cause skin irritation. When you do bathe them, use a gentle dog shampoo and make sure to rinse thoroughly.
Those beautiful dark eyes can develop tear staining, especially noticeable on their white face. Gently clean around the eyes daily with a damp cloth or dog-safe eye wipes. It's a small daily task that makes a big difference to their appearance.
Don't forget the basics - nails need trimming every 2-3 weeks, and their upright ears should be checked and cleaned monthly. The good news is their ear shape means they're less prone to ear infections than dogs with floppy ears.
Regular dental care is essential - brush those teeth several times a week to prevent the dental issues this breed can be prone to.
Japanese Spitz are absolute gems when it comes to training - they're intelligent, eager to please, and genuinely seem to enjoy learning new things. This makes them perfect for first-time dog owners or families who want a dog that's easy to manage around Australian neighbourhoods and public spaces.
Start with basic obedience early, focusing on recall, sit, stay, and heel. These commands are particularly important in Australia's outdoor lifestyle - you'll want reliable recall during beach walks or in off-leash dog parks. Use positive reinforcement with treats and praise; these dogs respond brilliantly to encouragement and can become stubborn if you're too harsh.
Exercise needs are moderate and very manageable. About 30-60 minutes daily keeps them happy and healthy. This could be a morning walk around your neighbourhood, some backyard play, or an evening stroll to the local park. They're adaptable to your schedule and energy levels.
These dogs excel at dog sports like agility and rally if you're interested in more structured activities. Many Australian dog clubs offer beginner classes, and Japanese Spitz often become star performers with their natural athleticism and eagerness to please.
One challenge you'll face is their tendency to bark - they're naturally alert and will announce visitors, delivery drivers, and probably the neighbour's cat. Early training can help manage this, which is particularly important in Australian suburban settings where houses are close together.
Socialisation is crucial, especially as puppies. Expose them to different people, dogs, and situations early. Take them to busy areas like markets or shopping centres (where dogs are welcome) to build their confidence around strangers.
Who is an ideal owner?
Japanese Spitz are perfect for Australian families who want a dog that's truly part of the family dynamic. They thrive with owners who understand that these aren't "backyard dogs" - they want to be involved in family life, from morning coffee to evening TV time.
They're brilliant with children of all ages and seem to have an innate understanding of how to play gently with little ones while being more boisterous with older kids. Many Australian families with school-age children find them ideal because they're sturdy enough for active play but gentle enough to be trusted completely.
First-time dog owners often do well with Japanese Spitz because they're forgiving of mistakes and eager to please. They're not as demanding as some breeds, but they do need consistent daily interaction and moderate exercise. If you work from home or have flexible schedules, even better - they love being around their people.
However, they're not suitable for everyone. If you're frequently away for long hours, travel extensively for work, or prefer a more independent dog, this breed might not be right for you. They can develop separation anxiety and destructive behaviours when left alone too much.
They adapt well to various living situations - from Sydney apartments to rural properties - as long as their exercise and companionship needs are met. Retirees often find them perfect companions for daily walks and social activities, while active families appreciate their willingness to join in adventures.
The white coat does require some consideration - if you're house-proud or don't want to deal with regular grooming and seasonal shedding, you might want to consider other breeds. But if you enjoy the grooming process and don't mind some extra housework during shedding season, their beauty more than makes up for it.
Interesting facts about the Japanese Spitz
Interesting Fact
The Japanese Spitz was first exhibited in Tokyo in 1921, making them a relatively young breed in dog terms
Interesting Fact
They're often called "cloud dogs" because of their pristine white, fluffy appearance
Interesting Fact
Despite their white coats, they have a unique "self-cleaning" quality where dirt brushes out easily once dry
Interesting Fact
Japanese Spitz prefer warmth, making them excellent indoor companions during cooler Australian winters
FAQ
Yes, Japanese Spitz typically cost between $1,500-$3,500 in Australia, with some champion bloodline puppies costing even more. The investment reflects their quality breeding and relative rarity in Australia.
Absolutely! They're fantastic family dogs who love being around people and are particularly good with children. They're loyal, affectionate, and when properly socialised, get along well with other pets too.
They can be quite vocal, especially when excited or seeking attention. Early training helps manage excessive barking, which is important in Australian suburban neighbourhoods where houses are close together.
Japanese Spitz come in one size only, while American Eskimos have toy, miniature, and standard varieties. Japanese Spitz are only white, whereas American Eskimos can be white or cream. They also originated in different countries despite their similar appearance.
They adapt well to most Australian climates but prefer cooler conditions. In hot areas like Darwin or Brisbane, you'll need to time walks for cooler parts of the day and ensure they have adequate shade and water.
Yes, they adapt well to apartment living as long as they get daily exercise and aren't left alone for extended periods. Their moderate exercise needs make them manageable for unit dwellers.
Weekly brushing is sufficient most of the year, but during their twice-yearly shedding seasons, daily brushing is essential. They only need baths every few months unless they get particularly dirty.
When properly socialised, Japanese Spitz generally get along well with other dogs and can even coexist peacefully with cats. Their hunting instinct is quite low compared to other breeds.