Pet Wiki

Danish Spitz

Also called Dansk spids, Danish White Spitz, Wolf Spitz, Greenland Spitz, Samoyed Spitz

Rare breedShort profile

From Denmark, especially the farms and towns of Jutland.12

At a glance the quick version

Weight10 to 18 kg12
Height, male43 to 49 cm12
Height, female38 to 46 cm12
Sizemedium

DKK gives 10-18 kg for both sexes; English Wikipedia gives 12-18 kg.

friendly and patient with children
lively and curious
easy-care, largely self-cleaning coat
12

Coat and looks how to spot one

medium-length double coat

A classic medium-sized spitz with a glossy, medium-length topcoat over a soft, thick undercoat that keeps out the weather. The thighs and legs are feathered and the bushy tail curls up over the back.12

Colourswhiteoff-whitebiscuit12

Personality what they are like

Cheerful, curious and brave, and very affectionate with its own family and familiar animals. It makes a lovely playmate for children, though it may hold back a little and use its voice when strangers show up.12

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Moderate. It enjoys walks and things to think about but is not a demanding breed.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The coat stays fairly clean on its own; a good regular brush keeps it neat, with extra attention during the spring and autumn moult.1

Home where they are happiest

A traditional farm and family dog that adapts to ordinary home life; it rarely wanders off on its own.12

Company who they like around

A true companion breed that wants to be part of family life and gets on well with familiar people and pets.1

The story where it all began

White spitz dogs lived for generations on Jutland farms and with town families, peaking in popularity around the 1930s before almost disappearing. From 1988 the Danish Kennel Club began collecting and assessing remaining dogs to rebuild the breed and write a standard.12

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    The breed went by so many names, including Samoyed Spitz and Greenland Spitz, that tracing its lineage has been tricky.2

  2. 2

    Historically it often served as a companion for farm children.2

  3. 3

    It is registered in the DKK's X-register, which is used only for reconstruction breeds.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed is called Danish Spitz because it originates from Denmark and belongs to the spitz type of dogs, characterized by pointed ears, a thick coat, and a curled tail.2

Name ideas for your new friend

SpidsJuteFjordLunaSvenFreyaBjornDanskPolarNisseTulleSolo

A day in the life told by a Danish Spitz

I wake with a cheerful yip and race to the kitchen, where the smell of fresh bread hangs in the air. My human laughs and pats my head. Outside, I chase a falling leaf and bark hello to the neighbor's cat, we're old friends. The children come out to play, and we tumble in the grass until I'm covered in mud. A good brushing follows, and I curl up on the porch, proud of my clean white coat. When strangers pass, I give a short, friendly woof. Life is a cozy, sunny game.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

Dansk Kennel Klub
Reconstruction breed recorded in the DKK X-register (from 1 January 2013 per Wikipedia); may be shown in Denmark and the Nordic countries.1
FCI
Not recognised by the FCI.1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Danish Spitz. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Blueberry and Oat Bites

These three-ingredient treats are quick to make and packed with antioxidants from blueberries and fibre from oats. They are low in fat and perfect as a training reward.

You need

  • 100g oats
  • 1 banana (mashed)
  • 40g fresh blueberries (chopped)
  • Splash of water (as needed)

How

  1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
  2. In a bowl, mix the mashed banana, oats, and chopped blueberries together.
  3. Add splashes of water gradually until the mixture comes together into a large ball.
  4. Roll out the mixture on a lightly floured surface to about 1-2cm thick.
  5. Use a knife or cookie cutter to cut into shapes.
  6. Place the shapes on a lined baking tray.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until slightly browned.
  8. Leave to cool completely before serving.

How much: Offer one or two bites per day for a medium-sized dog. Reduce your dog's usual food portion to account for these treats.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Danish Spitz, and at what times?

Feed your adult Danish Spitz at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Exact times can vary, so a consistent schedule works best. Follow the food label and your vet's advice for portion sizes.3

What should a Danish Spitz eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A high-quality dog food suited to its age and size is ideal. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by the ASPCA. Always check with your vet for specific dietary needs.4

How often should I bathe a Danish Spitz?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 70 days, which is about every two months. The coat stays fairly clean on its own, so bathe only when needed using a dog shampoo.5 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Danish Spitz need brushing?

Brush your Danish Spitz every three days, and daily during spring and autumn moult. This keeps the medium-length double coat neat and healthy. Extra attention during shedding helps manage loose fur.15 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Danish Spitz's nails, and how often?

Trim nails about every four weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid bleeding. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.5 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Danish Spitz need?

This breed has moderate exercise needs and enjoys daily walks and playtime. It also appreciates mental stimulation, like puzzle toys. A consistent routine keeps it happy and healthy.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Danish Spitz's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth daily if possible, at least every two days, using dog toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks and clean only the outer part with a vet-recommended cleaner. Never push anything into the ear canal.5 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Danish Spitz live?

Lifespan varies by individual and care. For typical ranges, ask your vet or a reputable breeder. They can give you the best estimate based on your dog's health and lineage.

Is a Danish Spitz good with children and other pets?

Yes, it is a cheerful and affectionate companion that makes a lovely playmate for children. It gets along well with familiar pets and people, though it may be reserved with strangers.12

Can a Danish Spitz be left alone?

This breed is a true companion that wants to be part of family life. It can be left alone for short periods with proper enrichment, but prolonged isolation may cause distress. Ask your vet or breeder for advice tailored to your dog.1

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. Dansk Kennel Klub: Dansk spids dkk.dkused for size, weight, coat, temperament, care, history, recognition
  2. Wikipedia: Danish Spitz en.wikipedia.orgused for other names, history, recognition date, fun facts
  3. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  4. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.