Thespitz (pronounced[ʃpɪts]ⓘ) is atype ofdomestic dog including between 50 and 70 breeds depending on classification. There is no precise definition of the type, but most spitz breeds have pricked ears, almond-shaped eyes, a pointed muzzle, a double coat, and a tail that curves over the back.[1] The name derives from the GermanSpitz(hund), meaning "pointed (dog)", in reference to the shape of the muzzle.[2]
Most of the spitzes seen today originate from theArctic region or fromSiberia.[citation needed]Johann Friedrich Gmelin described the type asCanis pomeranus in his 1788 revision ofSystema Naturae.[3]
Dogs of spitz type have been depicted on the tombs of the4th dynasty of Egypt.[4] Toy dogs of spitz type have been depicted since 500 B.C. inAncient Greek pottery.[5]
Spitzes are well suited to living in harsh northern climates. They often have aninsulating, waterproofundercoat that is denser than the topcoat to trap warmth. Small, upright ears help to reduce the risk offrostbite, square proportions and thick fur that grows on the paws protects the dogs from sharp ice. Many spitz breeds, like theJapanese Akita andChow Chow, retainwolf-like characteristics such as independence, suspiciousness, and aggression towards unfamiliar humans and other dogs, and they require much training and socialization when they are puppies before they become manageable in an urban environment. Some, such as theKarelian Bear Dog, are more difficult to train ascompanion dogs. Some breeds, such as thePomeranian, havemanes. Several spitz breeds (such ashuskies) are bred for one purpose only. However it is common for many spitz breeds (such as the Russianlaikas) to be general purpose dogs in their native lands, used for hunting, hauling, herding, and guarding.[citation needed] Smaller breeds have faces that resemblefox faces, while larger breeds have faces that resemblewolf faces.
Some spitzes, with their thick fur, fluffy ruffs, curled tails and small muzzles and ears, have been bred into non-working dogs designed to be companions orlap dogs. This trend is most evident in the tinyPomeranian, which was originally a much larger dog closer to the size of aKeeshond before being bred down to make an acceptable court animal.[citation needed]
The Keeshond, theWolfspitz variety of theGerman Spitz, is an affectionate, loyal, and very energetic pet that was bred as a watchdog for barges (hence the name Dutch Barge Dog). Often, these breeds are recognized for their "smiling" mouths. Other spitzes that have been bred away from working uses are theAmerican Eskimo Dog,Alaskan Klee Kai,German Spitz,Volpino Italiano andJapanese Spitz.[citation needed]
Media related toSpitz at Wikimedia Commons
