Live Life Team
This is a Japanese toy breed of recent origin, generally used as a lap dog and companion. It was developed in the 1930s by breeders looking for an “improved” Spitz that resembled the ancient toy dogs that had been kept by monarchs.
White German Spitzen were introduced to Japan by the Chinese in the 1920s. Breeders crossed these with smaller, imported white Spitz dogs from various areas. The breed was exported in the 1950s, swiftly gaining favour with the Kennel Clubs of Great Britain and Sweden. Since then, it has become a popular utility breed around the world.
The dog stands 13 inches (33 cm) at the shoulder, but this can vary a lot depending on the individual country’s breed standards. It is a square set breed with a deep chest and solid limbs. The double coat is always pure white, long and luxuriant on the body, chest and tail and shorter on the face and legs. There is a distinct mane around the neck. The tail is well feathered with long hair and is carried curled over the dog’s back.
The head is fox-like, with a pointed muzzle and small, triangular prick ears. The eyes have a slightly “oriental” appearance.
The dog has a tendency to bark at strangers, but otherwise makes a good companion. It is intelligent and playful, well tempered and good with children. It is a long lived, low maintenance breed.
