| Japanese Spitz | ||
|---|---|---|
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| Alternative names | ||
| Nihon Supittsu | ||
| Country of origin | ||
| Japan | ||
| Classification and breed standards | ||
| FCI: | Group 5 Section 5 #262 | Stds |
| ANKC: | Group 7 (Non-Sporting) | Stds |
| KC (UK): | Utility | Stds |
| NZKC: | Non-Sporting | Stds |
The Japanese Spitz is a small, completely white, breed of dog that is thought to have been bred from the German Spitz for smallness beginning in the late 19th century in Japan.[1] They were introduced to the United States in the 1950s.[2] It is very similar to the American Eskimo Dog, and German Spitz, in size, overall appearance, and temperament.[3]
Contents |
History
In the late 19th century, Japanese cynologists cross-bred various dog breeds for a small dog breed with pure white coat. These breeds include the German Spitz, Siberian Samoyed, Russian Spitz, and American Eskimo. It was believed that these various dog breeds from different countries were introduced to Japan through Siberia and Manchuria. The end result was the Japanese Spitz.[4] The breed was first exhibited in a dog show in Tokyo in 1921. Subsequently, a unified breed standard was established by the Japan Kennel Club in 1948.[1] It gained much popularity in Japan in the 1950s, and was introduced to Europe and North America around the same period of time.[5]
Appearance
An adult Japanese Spitz typically weighs 5 to 10 kg, and stands at 32 to 38 cm off of the ground at the withers.[5] Their coats are divided into 2 layers. The outer layer consists of long straight hair standing off from the body, used for insulating against fluctuating temperatures. The under layer consists of short, soft and dense fur that is always a pure white color.[5] The tail is covered with long hair and is carried curled over the back. The coat is short on the bottom half of the legs and has feathering on the forelegs. The dryness of their coat makes it virtually free of odor. The ears are small and pointed upright, and the muzzle tapers slightly. The large oval eyes are dark and slightly slanted, and the nose and lips are black. The face of the Japanese Spitz is wedge-shaped.[5]
Temperament
The Japanese Spitz is first and foremost a companion. They thrive on human contact and attention, preferring to be a member of the family.[3] They are intelligent, playful, alert, and obedient, excellent with children and have the patience for toddlers.[6] Japanese Spitz are highly compatible with other dogs and animals, as well as being proud, affectionate, loyal and very protective of their masters. Most Japanese Spitz are good watch dogs as they are always alert, and will announce the presence of intruders to their owners with loud and forceful barking.[3] They will not hesitate to bark at new people until they get to know them.[5] Japanese Spitz enjoy being in an outdoor environment. However it is inappropriate if the owner expects them to live outside in the yard and to be forgotten about. Such treatment will cause them to feel rejected and will inevitably lead to boredom and depression. Consequences include behavioural problems such as barking and destructiveness.[3]
Health
Japanese Spitz typically live from 10 to 12 years if well cared for, and in rare cases they might live as long as 16 years. They are a healthy breed with very few genetic problems. The main health concern for Japanese Spitz is the development of Patellar luxation,[3] a condition in which the kneecap dislocates out of its normal position. They can also be prone to runny eyes, which is most commonly due too having tear ducts that are too small, or an allergy to long grass or stress. It is rarely caused by any serious eye defect.[7] The Japanese Spitz's coat is relatively dry compared to other breeds. While it is optimum to bath them once every six months, they should not be bathed more frequent then once every two months. As bathing and shampoo strips the natural oil and moisture from their coat. This can cause skin sensitivity and itchiness. Their coat should be groomed twice a week using a pin brush that reaches to the undercoat, preventing formation of knots.[8] Grooming this breed is relatively easy in contrast to other dog breeds. Although their white fur coat may appear to require lots of care, it has a non-stick texture often described as being similar to Teflon.[9] When mud or soil is attached onto their fur, it will automatically detach itself from the fur once the mud dries. This unique characteristic gives Japanese Spitz's coat a "self-cleaning" property. Their undercoat undergoes a renewal process known as moulting. This often occurs twice a year during spring and autumn when they develop a new undercoat to prepare for the extreme temperatures of summer and winter.
Lifestyle
Exercise
Japanese Spitz do not require extensive exercise, but daily long walks are essential for general physical and mental health. They enjoy the opportunity to sprint off-lead in a secured area. Playing ball games and throwing frisbees are also forms of exercise favored by the Japanese Spitz. Doing so allows them the pleasure of interacting with the owner.[3]
Training
Basic obedience training for the dog should be commenced at a young age to provide mental stimulation. The Japanese Spitz is an intelligent breed and will quickly learn what is required of them if consistency is applied. Positive reinforcement of treats and praise will bring out their eagerness to learn and their willingness to please. Harsh handling and strong verbal discipline are unnecessary and may be met with resistance. Socialization at a very early age can introduce the puppy to various people, places, noises, situations and other animals. An adequately socialized puppy Japanese Spitz will mature into a friendly, confident, well mannered adult.[3]
References
- ^ a b Members of staff from American Rare Breed Association. American Rare Breed Association. The Rare Breed Dog Association in the United States of America. Retrieved on 2007-09-03.
- ^ Staff Writer (2001). Japanese Spitz Dogs. www.japanese-spitz-dogs.com. Retrieved on 2007-09-03.
- ^ a b c d e f g Staff Writer (2004). DOGSEY. www.dogsey.com. Retrieved on 2007-09-03.
- ^ Shannon. Shanspitz Kennels. Shanspitz Kennels. Retrieved on 2007-09-03.
- ^ a b c d e Staff Writer. Dog Breed Info Centre. Dog Breed Info Centre on dogbreedinfo.com. Retrieved on 2007-09-03.
- ^ Staff Writer. Just Us Dogs. justusdogs.com. Retrieved on 2007-09-03.
- ^ Staff Writer (2006). Pet Planet. petplanet.co.uk. Retrieved on 2007-09-03.
- ^ Staff Writer (2005). Doozie Dog. dooziedog.com. Retrieved on 2007-09-03.
- ^ Staff (2006). FAQ on JapaneseSpitz.com.au. japanesespitz.com.au. Retrieved on 2007-09-03.
