AKA: Nihon Supittsu

Description: The Japanese Spitz is a thick and long-haired dog that has its pure white long hair as its distinctive feature. Its whole body is covered with long hair, except on the bottom half of its legs. There are only breeches on the hind legs and feathering on the forelegs.

The ears of the Japanese Spitz are small and stand upright. The muzzle tapers slightly. The large oval eyes are dark and are almond-shaped. The nose and lips are black.

Dynamics: The Japanese Spitz is a very spirited and playful breed. It is always alert, and obedient to its owner. It is also fearless and intelligent. It makes a good watchdog. Training should be consistent, but generally the Japanese Spitz is easy to train as it learns quickly.

The Japanese Spitz is very good with children, and can get along with other dogs and household pets. It like so play, especially with balls and Frisbees. Its affectionate temperament is very evident. But it is also protective of its owner and family and can act as a guardian. It gets suspicious of strangers and will bark at people unless it knows them.

Breed Group: Northern

Weight: 11-20 pounds (5-10 kg)

Height: 12-15 inches (30-38 cm)

Color: The coat and hair of the Japanese Spitz is purely white.

Country of Origin: There is no solid information as to the origins of the Japanese Spitz, although it was claimed to have been descended from the Siberian Samoyed. The creation of the Japanese Spitz started in the late 1800s and became popular in Japan in the 1950s.

Activities: The Japanese Spitz loves to play and needs a daily walk. This breed is mostly used as a companion dog, but it can also be a watchdog and guard dog.

Grooming: Combing and brushing the Japanese Spitz should be done everyday. Bathe only when necessary. Remove loose hair from the under layer by using a comb with a double row of teeth.

Other Info: The Japanese Spitz has a life expectancy of 12 years. This breed will be fine living in an apartment as long as it is taken outdoors form time to time.

AKA: Japanese Chin, Chin

Description: The Japanese Spaniel is a small spaniel-type breed that has a distinctive short broad face. Its forehead is round and there is a defined stop. The Japanese Spaniel also has a very short nasal canal. The nose is wide, the color matching the markings of its coat. The eyes are dark and almond-shaped. The teeth forms a either a level or undershot bite. The ears, usually hanging, are covered heavily with hair.

The Japanese Spaniel’s body is squarely proportional. The legs are well-boned, with the front legs straight. The tail is feathered and is curled up over the back. Its soft and feathered coat also adds to its distinguishing features, especially its thick ruff around the neck and on the chest.

Dynamics: The Japanese Spaniel is a lively, playful and cheerful breed. It has a very pleasant personality and affectionate temperament. It is extremely loyal and devoted to its owner. It is very loving to those it knows. It is careful and reserved around strangers. It may not be tolerant to children who are more playful and teasing than it is. It is good with other dogs and pets, however.

The Japanese Spaniel likes to be the center of attention. It is very obedient and eager to please. It is mild-mannered, and is not a barker.

Breed Group: Toy

Weight: 4-15 pounds (2-7 kg)

Height: 7-11 inches (18-28 cm)

Color: The coat of the Japanese Spaniel is mainly white with colored patches, which is most often black. Other colors for the patches are red, lemon, orange, sable, and brindle.

Country of Origin: The Japanese Spaniel is considered to be a native of Korea. But it was developed in Japan and became a favorite of the Japanese Court. A pair was given by Commodore Perry to Queen Victoria as a gift, and it became popular in Europe.

Activities: There is no need to exercise the Japanese Spaniel, although it needs to be walked regularly because of a dog’s innate need to exercise its legs. The Japanese Spaniel can be used as a watch dog, and is good at performing tricks. It is mostly favored as a companion dog.

Grooming: Comb and brush the feathering hair everyday to avoid tangles and remove dead hair. Clean the eyes and check the ears for any signs of infection. Bathe and dry shampoo occasionally.

Other Info: The Japanese Spaniel has an average life expectancy of under 10 years. This breed tends to wheeze and snore because of its short face. It is prone to respiratory problems and heat prostration. It is sensitive to extreme temperatures. The Japanese Spaniel is okay living in an apartment.

Photo by Trysha