A stand-off outer coat of long, straight hair over a short, dense, woolly undercoat. The neck and shoulders carry a thick mane and the bushy tail curls up over the back, giving the classic fox-like spitz outline.12
Colourswhiteblackbrownorangegrey-shadedother colours (Medium, Miniature and Toy varieties)1
Personality what they are like
A lively, attentive little companion that bonds closely with its people. It tends to be reserved with strangers and has very little hunting drive, which makes it a keen watchdog rather than a chaser. Many are happy, even-tempered and chatty, and they prefer not to be left alone for long.14
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Moderate. The RKC suggests up to an hour a day for the Klein, while Purina suggests one to two hours of walking split into several outings, plus games that keep the mind busy.34
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Daily brushing keeps the double coat free of tangles, paying extra attention behind the ears and around the elbows. Expect heavier seasonal moults, when more frequent brushing helps.34
Home where they are happiest
Adapts to town or country and can live in a flat, ideally with access to a small to medium garden.3
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A complete, balanced commercial or vet-guided diet suited to the dog's size, age and activity level, with portions adjusted to keep a lean, athletic shape and fresh water always available.
Company who they like around
Loves human company and is happiest living closely with its family; it should not be left alone for long periods.41
The story where it all began
The FCI describes the German Spitz as the oldest dog breed of Central Europe, linked to Stone Age "peat dogs". Written mentions in German texts go back to about 1450. The breed was long kept as a farm and boat watchdog and was gradually bred down in size, giving rise to the small companion varieties, including the Pomeranian.124
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
The FCI treats the Keeshond and the Pomeranian as size varieties of the German Spitz, while English-speaking kennel clubs usually list them as separate breeds.2
2
The breed spans five sizes under one standard, from the Toy/Pomeranian at around 21 cm to the Wolfsspitz at around 49 cm at the withers.1
3
Spitz-type dogs were once kept as watchdogs on trading and fishing boats.4
4
The Royal Kennel Club recognises two sizes, Klein and Mittel, which share an identical standard apart from height.3
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed name 'Spitz' comes from the German word for 'pointed', referring to the dog's pointed muzzle and ears. The German Spitz is one of the oldest dog breeds in Central Europe, descending from Stone Age 'Peat Dogs'.5
Famous ones stars of the breed
A group of 16 German Spitz dogs Used in a scientific study as a model for human Leber's congenital amaurosis (LCA) due to a shared GUCY2D gene mutation.6
I woke up and gave my human a little bark, time for breakfast! After a short walk, I sat by the window and watched the mailman. Then we played hide-and-seek; I found the treat under the pillow! In the afternoon, I napped on the sofa, my fluffy tail covering my nose. When my human came home, I chatted about my day with happy yips. Perfect.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
FCI
Standard no. 97, Group 5 (Spitz and primitive types), Section 4 European Spitz; no working trial. Current standard dated 3 September 2024; covers Wolfsspitz/Keeshond, Giant, Medium, Miniature and Toy/Pomeranian as varieties of one breed.1
The Royal Kennel Club
Utility group; recognised as two size varieties, German Spitz (Klein) and German Spitz (Mittel), which share one standard apart from size.3
VDH (German Kennel Club)
Breed standard held for Germany as country of origin.2
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a German Spitz. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
BrushingDaily during heavy sheddingevery 3 days
Double coats insulate against cold and heat, so shaving is not recommended
Bathevery 10 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year
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
Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
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.
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 German Spitz, and at what times?
Feed your German Spitz at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies, to keep its energy steady. Establish a consistent routine, and for exact portions check the food label and your vet. Fresh water should always be available.7
What should a German Spitz eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A complete, balanced commercial diet suited to your dog's size, age and activity is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, as listed by the ASPCA. Always provide fresh water.8
How often should I bathe a German Spitz?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests bathing every 70 days, and general guidance is at least once every three months. You can bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty, but avoid over-bathing to protect its double coat.9Pet Wiki plan
How often does a German Spitz need brushing?
Brush your German Spitz daily to prevent tangles in its double coat, paying extra attention behind the ears and elbows. During heavy seasonal shedding, brush more often. Furry Diary's plan recommends every three days, but daily is ideal.34Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a German Spitz's nails, and how often?
Trim your German Spitz's nails every three weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.9Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a German Spitz need?
Your German Spitz needs moderate exercise, about one to two hours of walking split into several outings each day, plus mental games. Daily walks and play are essential to keep it happy and healthy.34Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a German Spitz's teeth and ears?
Brush your German Spitz's teeth daily (or at least two to three times a week) with dog toothpaste. Check its ears every two weeks for redness or odor, and clean gently with a vet-recommended solution. Never push anything into the ear canal.9Pet Wiki plan
How long does a German Spitz live?
A German Spitz typically lives between 12 and 16 years with proper care and regular vet checkups. Enjoy many happy years together!34
Is a German Spitz good with children and other pets?
The German Spitz is a lively, even-tempered companion that bonds closely with its family. It has little hunting drive, so it can get along with other pets, and with proper socialization it is good with children. Always supervise interactions.14
Can a German Spitz be left alone?
German Spitzes prefer not to be left alone for long periods as they bond closely with their people. They are happiest with company and may become anxious if left alone too much.41
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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