Last Updated: 04/03/2026
Japanese Spitz Breed Guide
Discover the history, personality, and unique care requirements of the Japanese Spitz.
Author: Dr Josepha Cox BBiomedSc (Hons) DVM
Reading Time: 6 minutes - short read
The Japanese Spitz is a small-to-medium-sized companion dog known for its thick, snow-white double coat and cheerful, alert expression. They are highly affectionate, intelligent, and energetic dogs that thrive on human companionship. Despite their luxurious appearance, they are hardy and adaptable, making them excellent family pets for both apartments and suburban homes.
All about Japanese Spitz
Place of origin
Japan
Weight range
5-10kg
Breed size
Small/Medium
Height range
30-38cm
Breed group
Non Sporting
Life expectancy
12-14 years
Coat colours
Pure White
Grooming needs
High
Coat type
Thick Double
Health issues
Patellar Luxation; Tear staining
Shedding factor
High
Exercise needs
Moderate
Play style
Playful/Alert
Housing needs
Adaptable/Indoor focus
Trainability
High
Social needs
High
Family suitability
High
Tendency to bark
Moderate/Alert
Nutrition
Providing a balanced and high-quality diet is essential for supporting the Japanese Spitz's high energy levels and maintaining their iconic white coat. Correct nutrition ensures they receive the necessary vitamins and minerals to support joint health and a strong immune system.
Best food for adult Japanese Spitz
When selecting a diet for an adult Japanese Spitz, focus on high-quality proteins and moderate calorie levels to prevent obesity, which can exacerbate joint issues like patellar luxation.
Look for formulas that contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as these are vital for maintaining the health and lustre of their thick double coat. Additionally, small-breed specific kibble is often beneficial, as the smaller piece size is easier for them to chew and helps promote better oral hygiene through mechanical cleaning.
Diets with added glucosamine and chondroitin can also provide proactive support for their joints, helping them stay active well into their senior years.
What to look for
Moderate calories and inclusion of joint support nutrients to assist with mobility.
Small breed specific kibble size to ensure easy chewing and improved dental health.
Rich in omega fatty acids to support a healthy skin barrier and a shiny white coat.
Best food for Japanese Spitz puppies
Japanese Spitz puppies require a diet specifically formulated for growth, containing precise levels of calcium and phosphorus for sturdy bone development. High-quality animal protein is the most important ingredient to support their developing muscles and playful energy. It is also beneficial to look for puppy foods enriched with DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil, which is essential for healthy brain and vision development.
What to look for
Balanced calcium and phosphorus levels to promote steady and healthy skeletal growth.
Highly digestible ingredients to support a sensitive developing digestive system.
Inclusion of DHA for optimal cognitive development and vision in growing puppies.
Flea & worming
Consistent flea, tick, and worming prevention is vital for the Japanese Spitz to protect them from parasites that can cause skin irritation and serious internal diseases. Given their thick coats, identifying parasites early can be difficult, making preventative treatment even more critical.
Best flea and worming treatments for Japanese Spitz
For the Japanese Spitz, an all-in-one preventative that covers fleas, heartworm, and intestinal worms is often the most convenient and effective choice. Given their thick double coat, topical treatments must be applied directly to the skin, so many owners find oral chews easier to administer and more reliable. Ensure the product chosen is appropriate for their weight range, typically falling within the small to medium categories. It is also important to choose a product that covers paralysis ticks, especially for dogs living in or visiting coastal areas of Australia.
What to look for
Oral chew format to ensure full dose delivery regardless of their thick double coat.
Comprehensive protection including coverage for paralysis ticks and heartworm.
Weight-appropriate dosing specifically for dogs in the 5kg to 10kg range.
Health
Selecting the right health products can proactively manage breed-specific predispositions and keep your Japanese Spitz comfortable and thriving. Targeted care for their eyes and joints can prevent minor issues from becoming significant health hurdles.
Products to keep Japanese Spitz healthy
Because the Japanese Spitz is prone to tear staining, gentle eye cleaning solutions or pre-soaked wipes are essential for maintaining their bright white facial fur and preventing irritation. Look for products that are pH-balanced and free from harsh chemicals to ensure they are safe for daily use around the sensitive eye area.
For those predisposed to patellar luxation, joint supplements containing Green Lipped Mussel or Glucosamine can be introduced early to support cartilage health. Additionally, a high-quality skin and coat supplement can provide an extra layer of protection for their skin barrier.
What to look for
Gentle, pH-balanced eye wipes to manage tear staining and maintain facial hygiene.
Joint supplements containing Green Lipped Mussel to support long-term mobility.
Skin and coat supplements high in zinc and biotin to support their dense fur.
Training and activity
Japanese Spitz are highly intelligent and active, making the right choice of toys and walking equipment essential for their mental and physical well-being. Providing a variety of engagement tools helps prevent boredom-driven barking and ensures they remain well-behaved companions.
Best toys for Japanese Spitz
Interactive puzzle toys are excellent for the Japanese Spitz, as they engage their sharp minds and satisfy their natural curiosity. Because they are often quite playful and energetic, fetch-based toys like lightweight balls or small frisbees are perfect for burning off energy in the backyard.
Soft, plush toys are also frequently a favourite for this breed, though they should be durable enough to withstand enthusiastic shaking. Incorporating toys that make sound, such as squeakers, can also tap into their alert and attentive nature, keeping them engaged for longer periods during solo play.
What to look for
Fetch toys that are appropriately sized for a smaller mouth to encourage active play.
Interactive puzzle toys to provide essential mental stimulation for this intelligent breed.
Durable toys with squeakers to satisfy their desire for tactile and auditory play.
Best harnesses, collars and walking accessories for Japanese Spitz
A well-fitting, lightweight harness is often preferred over a traditional collar for a Japanese Spitz to prevent pressure on their neck and trachea. Look for harnesses that are adjustable to accommodate their thick fur without causing matting or discomfort. A standard length lead is usually sufficient for city walks, but a longer training lead can be useful for practicing recall in open spaces, as they can sometimes be distracted by their alert instincts. It is also helpful to choose walking accessories with reflective elements to ensure they remain visible during early morning or evening strolls.
What to look for
Adjustable harness to prevent neck strain and ensure a secure fit over a thick coat.
Lightweight materials that do not cause friction or matting of the fine white fur.
Reflective stitching or attachments to improve visibility during low-light walks.
Grooming
The Japanese Spitz’s magnificent white coat is their crowning glory, and using the correct grooming tools is essential for managing shedding and preventing mats. Regular grooming is not just about looks; it is a vital part of their overall skin and coat health.
Best grooming products for Japanese Spitz
A high-quality slicker brush and a long-toothed metal comb are the most important tools for a Japanese Spitz owner. The slicker brush is used to reach through the dense outer coat to remove loose undercoat hair, while the comb is essential for checking for mats in high-friction areas like behind the ears and under the legs. During shedding seasons, an undercoat rake can be extremely helpful for managing the heavy volume of hair they "blow." Because they have white coats, a whitening or brightening shampoo that is gentle on the skin can help maintain their snowy appearance without causing dryness.
What to look for
A slicker brush with fine bristles to effectively reach the dense undercoat.
A metal comb to identify and detangle mats in long-haired areas.
Gentle whitening shampoo to maintain the coat's bright appearance without irritation.
Sleep and home
Choosing the right bedding and home products provides a Japanese Spitz with a dedicated space to rest and feel secure. Comfortable, supportive bedding is especially important for protecting their joints after a day of active play.
Best beds for Japanese Spitz
Japanese Spitz generally enjoy a bed that offers a sense of security, such as a "donut" or bolstered style where they can curl up and feel protected. Since they have a very thick coat, look for beds with breathable fabrics or removable covers to ensure they do not overheat during warmer weather. An orthopaedic foam base can provide excellent support for their joints, which is beneficial for both growing puppies and aging adults. Placing their bed in a quiet but central area of the home allows them to rest while still feeling like they are part of the family action.
What to look for
Bolstered edges to provide a sense of security and a comfortable headrest.
Removable and machine-washable covers for easy maintenance of their white fur's cleanliness.
Breathable fabric covers to help regulate body temperature for a dog with a thick coat.
Japanese Spitz FAQ
