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Pomeranian or miniature Spitz

Other names: Deutscher Spitz, Wolfspitz, Keeshond, Pomeranian, Toyspitz

Pomeranian or miniature Spitz

There are five different sizes of the German Spitz dog, ranging from the smallest, the Toyspitz or the Pomeranian, to the largest, the Keeshond. They are all cheerful, jovial and affectionate but reserved around strangers, which makes them good guard dogs.

They are intelligent and docile, making them easy to train and suitable for many households, especially those with children.

Key facts about the Pomeranian or miniature Spitz

Life expectancy :

7

21

12

16

Temperament :

Affectionate Playful Intelligent

Size :

Origins and history

They are very old dogs that descend directly from the Canis familiaris palustris rutimeyer that lived in peat bogs in the Stone Age, and from the Spitz that existed in the Neolithic period in the lake cities. The German names of the different varieties are Wolfspitz, Grosspitz (large), Mittelspitz (medium), Kleinspitz (small) and Zwergspitz (dwarf). The FCI officially recognised the breed in 1957.

FCI breed nomenclature

FCI Group

Group 5 - Spitz and primitive types

Section

Section 4 : European Spitz

Physical characteristics of the Pomeranian or miniature Spitz

    Adult size

    Female : Between 7 and 22 in

    Male : Between 7 and 22 in

    The Wolfspitz measures on average 19 inches, the large Spitz one is 18 inches, the medium Spitz 13 inches, the small Spitz 10 inches and the smallest 8 inches at the wither.

    Weight

    Female : Between 7 and 44 lb

    Male : Between 7 and 44 lb

    Coat colour

    Black
    White
    Brown
    Blue
    Red

    Type of coat

    Long

    Eye colour

    Brown

    Description

    The head is reminiscent of that of a fox, with upright and triangular ears; the eyes are almond-shaped and the forehead broad and round. The muzzle is not very long and narrows from the skull to the tip of the nose. The legs are of medium length, well proportioned with the body which fits into a square, and is perfectly perpendicular. The tail is carried gracefully wrapped over the back.

    Good to know

    Famous historical figures were the proud owners of this much appreciated breed, such as Catherine of Russia, Marie-Antoinette, Mozart, Michel Ange and Emile Zola.

    There are a lot of Pomeranian mixed breeds, discover 6 of the most famous ones.

    Varieties

    Keeshond or Wolfspitz

    Giant Spitz

    Medium Spitz

    Small Spitz

    Pomeranian or miniature Spitz

    Temperament

    • 100%

      Affectionate

      Whatever the variety, this is a particularly loyal dog that is attached to his or her owner. They are particularly recommended for single people as they are so kind and jovial.

    • 100%

      Playful

      This is a lively and cheerful dog who never refuses a play session because their need to let off steam. Very playful, a game can also be a good way to start learning.

    • 66%

      Calm

      During any activities the Deutscher Spitz is a very active dog, but when resting, you shouldn’t expect to disturb this breed because they will ignore you and rest quietly.

    • 100%

      Intelligent

      Their intelligence is mainly characterised by their great ability to listen and to adapt. Indeed, these dogs can quickly take on what is expected of them and can adapt to many lifestyles.

    • 33%

      Hunter

      Despite not having a hunter’s instinct, this dog must be trained to come when called in order to be let off the lead on walks.

    • 100%

      Fearful / wary of strangers

      This dog is always wary around strangers. A very suspicious dog who does not easily trust new people.

    • 33%

      Independent

      A German Spitz is usually very close to their owner and will have a great admiration for you, if you are benevolent and respectful.

      Behaviour of the Pomeranian or miniature Spitz

      • 66%

        Tolerates solitude

        These dogs can tolerate the absence of their owners if they are not too prolonged. It is important to train your puppy from an early age to get used to being left alone. This should be done progressively and with a positive attitude.

      • 100%

        Easy to train / obedience

        Very attached to their master, these dogs want to learn and spend time with their owners. 
        Naturally, this facilitates education and training. 

        However, they are very sensitive and will not accept or forgive any form of brutality. Therefore, patience, consistency and care must be demonstrated during training sessions.

      • 100%

        Barking

        Their bark is high-pitched and powerful; they raise their voice as soon as they hear an unusual noise or a suspicious person approach.
        Training your dog to stop barking when desired will help.

      • 33%

        Tendency to run away

        Because they’re so loyal the German Spitz does not wander astray.

      • 66%