German Spitz

They share ancestry, and the FCI treats the Pomeranian as the smallest size of the German Spitz. In practice the Pomeranian has been bred smaller, usually under 3.5 kg, with a shorter back, a rounder head and a more profuse coat. The Klein and Mittel German Spitz are larger and a little more athletic, with a slightly longer muzzle and a more classic fox-like face.

Most are vocal. They were bred to announce visitors, and they take that job seriously. With training you can teach a dog to alert once or twice and then stop, but a completely silent Spitz is rare. If you live in a flat with thin walls, start quiet training early and avoid leaving the dog alone for long stretches, since boredom makes barking worse.

They can be good companions for considerate older children who handle them gently. Small puppies can be injured by rough play or if dropped, and some adults will snap if grabbed or teased. Teach children to sit on the floor to hold the dog, to let it approach them, and to leave it alone when it takes itself off to its bed.

They shed moderately year round and heavily once or twice a year, when the undercoat comes out in handfuls. Brushing two or three times a week keeps shedding under control and prevents mats. During a heavy shed, daily brushing plus a bath and a thorough blow dry helps remove the loosened undercoat faster, so less of it ends up on your floors.

Many reach 13 to 15 years, and some live longer with good care. Keeping them lean, looking after their teeth, and regular vet checks all contribute. Small breeds generally age more slowly than giant ones, but twice-yearly senior checkups from about age eight help catch problems early, when they are easier to manage.