![]() They are also pocket-sized watchdogs and, at times, prolific alert barkers. The breed is highly intelligent, mastering tricks with ease, and they often compete in canine sports or work as therapy dogs. While they may thrive on companionship, Poms are more than just lapdogs. It was Queen Victoria’s passion for the breed that cemented their popularity worldwide. Unlike many spitz dogs, the Pom has always been a companion breed and royals and notable historical figures, including Marie Antoinette and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, were enthusiasts. The fluffy Pomeranian is one of the world’s most popular toy breeds-and for good reason! These dogs may weigh less than seven pounds, but they have a commanding presence and a big personality. As with many spitz types, this intelligent breed does have an independent streak and a strong prey drive. Friendly, confident, and eager, these dependable dogs are often reserved with strangers but unfailingly loyal to those that win their trust. Larger than the Buhund, the Elkhound’s distinctive silver-gray coat is dense enough to keep them comfortable in the harshest weather conditions, and their natural athleticism, stamina, and working traits make them ideal agility and herding competitors. One of Europe’s oldest breeds, the Norwegian Elkhound sailed and hunted with the Vikings before herding sheep and guarding farms in rural Norway. Unlike some of their more stubborn spitz relatives, this breed is eager to please and responds very well to positive training techniques. ![]() As such, they thrive in active homes that provide the mental and physical stimulation they need. The Buhund is an energetic and smart spitz-type with tons of stamina. This versatile medium-sized breed acted as a confident herder, guardian and steadfastly loyal and affectionate companion. The origins of the Norwegian Buhund closely link with the Vikings, but they came into their own as all-purpose farm dogs in the Norwegian countryside. Herding trials, agility, and rally are just a few of the canine sports in which they excel. ![]() ![]() These days, the breed has gained a following for being intelligent, courageous, and calm. Known for their innate sociability, Lappies used to huddle close to their nomadic human companions through the extreme cold of the night. Originally bred to herd reindeer in Lapland, north of the Arctic circle, the Finnish Lapphund gets its name from the Sami, or Lapp, people who occupied these harsh, barren regions. With its thick coat, the Chow Chow does not tolerate high heat well. The breed is known for being fastidiously clean, calm, and loyal, but often also aloof, stubborn, and serious. The Chow Chow is instantly recognizable because of it’s lion’s-mane ruff, blue-black tongue, and powerful but compact physique. Their long history has seen them be prized companions of the Chinese noble, guard dogs, and hunters. There are artifacts from China’s Han Dynasty depicting these dogs from around 200 b.c. The Chow Chow is a unique and ancient breed that could be one of the original spitz-types. These traits, combined with their independent nature and power, mean that appropriate socialization from an early age is important. Unfailingly loyal toward their family, Akitas are wary of strangers and don’t always get along with other animals. Originally bred to hunt big game, these dogs are known for being courageous protectors with a strong work ethic. The Akita is a muscular, imposing, large dog from Japan, where they are seen as symbols of good health, happiness, and long life. These 16 AKC recognized breeds are synonymous with the spitz classification and showcase why so many people have made these types of dog a member of their family. There are between 50 and 70 distinct spitz dog breeds, but some aren’t easily categorized because there is no exact definition. Their thick coats also need regular grooming to keep the shedding at bay! Not always suited to the novice owner, these active dogs have working backgrounds, and their tasks ranged from helping hunters find game to hauling sleds with heavy loads to herding animals like reindeer. Spitz breeds are often loyal, intelligent, and affectionate, but they can also be independent and bold. All of these features help keep them warm when the temperatures drop. Physically, most spitz breeds have a wolf-like appearance that includes pointy, pricked ears, almond-shaped eyes, a heavy, double coat, and a feathery tail carried over the back. The word “spitz” in German means pointed. Many of these dogs were bred for life in arctic climates and originated in Scandinavia, Russia, North America, and Asia. If you live in a region with harsh winter weather, then you may want to consider a spitz breed.
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