15 Fascinating Spitz Dog Breeds You Should Know About

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Spitz dog breeds don’t refer to one specific breed but those that share consistent characteristics. These breeds typically have long, fluffy fur, pointed ears, and pointed noses. Generally, originating from regions with harsh winters, their coats provide insulation, keeping them warm in cold conditions. Let’s take a look at these 15 spitz dog breeds.

Siberian Husky

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Possessing piercing blue eyes and a double coat that looks like it is made out of snow, the Siberian Husky is the ideal Spitz. Bred for pulling sleds across vast distances, these intelligent and energetic dogs crave companionship and love a good run. Their friendly nature makes them excellent family companions, but their independent spirit requires experienced owners who can keep up with their boundless energy.

Alaskan Malamutes

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Notice those adorable erect ears? Breeding professionals call them ‘prick’ ears, common among spitz dogs like Alaskan Malamutes. Companions of the Inuit people in northwest Alaska for centuries, Mals are famed for their strength. Interestingly, they even helped distract polar bears during hunts! So naturally, they’re used to daily vigorous activities and tasks that keep their sharp minds on point.

Keeshond

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It is a kind and friendly breed that loves people. The most prominent feature is its unique “spectacle” facial markings. Originally from Holland, the Keeshond served as guard dogs and companions on the barges navigating the waterways. They also have a thick frill of fur covering their shoulders and chest. Their dense coats come in shades of gray, black, cream, or a mix of these colors.

Samoyed

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Samoyeds are powerful and graceful dogs native to Siberia. Their thick coats keep them warm in frigid temperatures. You may notice a signature “smile,” which is part of their natural expression, but it might also help prevent excessive drooling and icicles from forming on their faces in the harsh Siberian climate.

Chow Chow

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Recognized for their regal lion-like manes and dignified personalities, Chow Chow was created partly for guarding duties. While they show reservations towards strangers, Chow Chows can be incredibly loyal and affectionate with their families. It is recommended that they be acquainted with others at an early age to ensure they grow into well-mannered companions.

Pomeranian

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Spitz dog breeds aren’t all large and wolf-like. The Pomeranian, a toy breed, weighs at most 7 pounds. Despite their small size, these fluffy dogs still possess all the characteristics. However, don’t be deceived by their size—Pomeranians have huge personalities. They are playful, bold, and intelligent, excelling as family dogs and watchdogs.

Finnish Spitz

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Hailing from Finland, the Finnish Spitz is a little fox-faced hunter with a unique tracking style and a repertoire of rapid barks, yodels, and other vocalizations, earning them the nickname “Barking Bird Dog.” Beyond their hunting prowess, Finnish Spitz are fiercely loyal and alert watchdogs.

American Eskimo

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These beautiful snowy white dogs aren’t related to the Indigenous Alaskan people called “Eskimos.” The American Eskimo comes from Germany and is a descendant of the German Spitz. They arrived in America in the 1800s and quickly became famous for their intelligence, good looks, and friendly nature.

Norwegian Buhund

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Some say the Norwegian Buhund is one of the original spitz breeds. For centuries, these versatile watchdogs have helped out with herding livestock, guarding property, and being all-around farmyard companions. Even today, some Buhunds continue this tradition in Norway. 

Norwegian Elkhound

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Steeped in Norwegian history, the Norwegian Elkhound is brave and loyal. These canines were traditionally used for herding livestock, guarding farms, and, as their name suggests, hunting elk! Elkhounds are noted for their courage and devotion and are fantastic partners for adventurous owners.  

Alaskan Klee Kai

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Alaskan Klee Kai resembles a miniature husky, known for companionship rather than work. This emerging breed, which is less than 50 years old, was officially recognized as a separate breed in 1997 by the authorities of the United Kennel Club. They are descendants of Alaskan Huskies and are known for their unique characteristics.

Shiba Inu

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This Japanese breed is feisty and full of spirit! Often described as independent thinkers, these charming canines can be a handful and more challenging to train than some breeds, but their loyalty and unique personality win over many. They might seem aloof sometimes, especially if not socialized properly, but Shiba Inus forms strong bonds with their loved ones.

Icelandic Sheepdog

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Iceland’s treasured companion, the Icelandic Sheepdog, holds the title of the country’s only native dog breed. These happy and playful pups are typically about 18 inches tall. It is said that their story stretches back centuries, with their ancestors arriving in Iceland alongside Norse settlers.

Indian Spitz

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The exact origin of the Indian Spitz is somewhat unknown, but some theories suggest it might be descended from local spitz-type dogs or a mix of spitz breeds brought by traders over time. Regardless of their exact beginnings, Indian Spitz dogs have adapted beautifully to the Indian subcontinent’s climate, thriving in the hot summers.

Volpino Italiano

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Hailing from Italy, the Volpino Italiano has a rich history dating back centuries. While closely related to the Pomeranian and German Spitz, this Italian dog breed has distinct characteristics and a unique history. Volpino Italiano has a playful spirit and energetic personality.

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