German Spitz (Mittel)
🧠 Temperament & character
The German Spitz (Mittel) is lively, attentive and loyal, while being watchful and reserved towards strangers. He is very people-oriented, announces reliably and bonds closely with his family. Without a hunting drive and easy to train, he is an uncomplicated, cheerful companion who also gets on well with children. Like all spitz dogs he can show a certain fondness for barking.
📜 Origin & history
The German Spitz (Mittel) belongs to the old family of the German Spitze, whose roots are said to reach back to the Stone Age. For centuries these dogs guarded house, farm and wagons without hunting game – reliable, undemanding watchdogs. The Mittelspitz was especially popular with craftsmen, farmers and carters. Today he is a valued family and companion dog with growing popularity.
✂️ Grooming, care & training
The lavish, stand-off double coat of the German Spitz (Mittel) with its ruff needs regular brushing, but mats less than it looks and must not be clipped. He is fond of exercise and eager to learn, but gets by well with moderate walks and a bit of occupation. As a clever, willing dog he is excellently suited to tricks, obedience and small-scale dog sports. His tendency to bark should be worked on early.
🩺 Health
The German Spitz (Mittel) is a robust, long-lived breed and often reaches 13 to 16 years. Occasionally a patellar luxation (dislocation of the kneecap) or dental problems occur, as with many medium-sized to small breeds. Reputable breeders examine the knee joints and pay attention to healthy teeth and a balanced temperament. Overall he is considered healthy and little prone to serious hereditary diseases.
🏡 Who is this breed right for?
The German Spitz (Mittel) is a versatile, adaptable family dog who is suited to a house or an apartment, town or country. Thanks to his trainability and his lack of a hunting drive he is also well suited to beginners and seniors. He is very people-oriented and does not like to be left alone for long, but adapts to many living situations. His tendency to bark should be considered in close neighbourhoods and trained early.