German Spitz — breed guide
The Mittelspitz — the middle size of the old German spitz family the Pomeranian was bred down from.
At a glance
- Group
- non-sporting
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 7–11 kg (15–24 lb)
- Life span
- 13–15 years
- Coat
- Long, stand-off double coat
Living with a German Spitz
- Moderate energy — a proper walk every day.
- Heavy grooming — frequent brushing and regular trims.
- Heavy shedding, especially in season.
- Trainable with consistency.
- Very vocal.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Typically lives happily with a cat.
- Suits apartment living, given its daily walks.
- A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
- Average heat tolerance.
- Handles cold well.
Temperament
Lively · Devoted · Watchful · Yappy
Health to watch
- Patellar luxation
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Epilepsy
- Dental disease
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a German Spitz good with kids?
Generally yes. German Spitzs are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a German Spitz good with cats?
Usually yes. German Spitzs typically settle well with a resident cat — introduce them slowly and give the cat a high perch and a way out of the room.
How much exercise does a German Spitz need?
A real walk every day, around 30–60 minutes.
Can a German Spitz handle hot weather?
About average — use normal hot-day sense.
Leash Life keeps a German Spitz's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.