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Science & Nature • Dog Breed

Japanese Spitz

The Japanese Spitz is a small to medium-sized spitz-type dog breed developed in Japan in the 1920s and 1930s.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Japanese Spitz is a small to medium-sized spitz-type dog breed developed in Japan in the 1920s and 1930s. It is known for its pure white double coat, alert expression, and companionable temperament. The breed is recognised by several kennel clubs, but not by the American Kennel Club.

History

The breed was developed in Japan during the 1920s and 1930s from other spitz-type dogs. Sources differ on the exact foundation stock, but white German Spitz and Samoyed influence are commonly mentioned. The Japanese Kennel Club recognised the breed in 1948, and The Kennel Club recognised it in 1977.

Appearance

Japanese Spitz dogs are typically small to medium in size with a pure white, plush double coat, a wedge-shaped head, upright ears, and a tail carried curled over the back. They stand about 30–38 cm at the shoulder and weigh about 5–10 kg.

Temperament

The breed is generally described as affectionate, lively, intelligent, and good with children. It can be protective and may bark to alert owners to strangers.

Recognition and standards

The Japanese Spitz is recognised by major kennel organisations in several countries, including Japan and the United Kingdom, but not by the American Kennel Club. Breed standards vary slightly across registries.

Key facts

  • The Japanese Spitz is a relatively modern breed developed in Japan in the early 20th century.
  • It is a companion dog that is also described as alert and sometimes suitable as a watchdog.
  • The breed has a white coat, pricked ears, and a tail curled over the back.
  • Breed standards can vary somewhat by country and kennel club.
  • The breed is popular for its temperament, including being playful, intelligent, and easy to train.
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Canadian context

Canadian readers may encounter the Japanese Spitz through Canadian dog ownership and international breed comparisons, but the breed is not specifically identified in the provided sources as having a distinct Canadian origin or major Canadian breed registry status.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Japanese Spitz?
A Japanese Spitz is a small to medium spitz-type dog breed developed in Japan, usually kept as a companion animal.
When was the breed developed?
It was developed in Japan during the 1920s and 1930s.
What does a Japanese Spitz look like?
It is typically a white dog with a thick double coat, upright ears, and a tail curled over its back.
What is the Japanese Spitz like as a pet?
It is usually described as affectionate, playful, intelligent, and easy to train.
Is the Japanese Spitz recognised by kennel clubs?
Yes. It is recognised by the Japanese Kennel Club and The Kennel Club, but not by the American Kennel Club.
What is the breed’s origin?
The breed originated in Japan, with development influenced by imported spitz-type dogs.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_Spitz
    Supports: Basic identification of the Japanese Spitz as a small to medium spitz-type dog breed.
  2. Simple English Wikipedia — https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_Spitz
    Supports: Development in Japan during the 1920s and 1930s; temperament; recognition by most kennel clubs except the AKC.
  3. The Kennel Club — https://www.royalkennelclub.com/search/breeds-a-to-z/breeds/utility/japanese-spitz/
    Supports: Recognition in 1977; breed history and possible influence of Samoyed and White German Spitz.
  4. PetMD — https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/japanese-spitz
    Supports: Size range, appearance, temperament, and 1920s Japan origin.
  5. The Spruce Pets — https://www.thesprucepets.com/japanese-spitz-dog-breed-profile-4770721
    Supports: Physical characteristics, size, coat, and lifespan.
  6. Royal Canin — https://www.royalcanin.com/au/dogs/breeds/japanese-spitz
    Supports: Alternative breed name, origin, and early show history in Tokyo.
  7. Purina — https://www.purina.co.uk/find-a-pet/dog-breeds/japanese-spitz
    Supports: General appearance and spitz-type characteristics.