What is a Spitz
SPITZ PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
| The Spitz breeds are the most natural of the canine family. Although they have developed into a number of quite distinct breeds, it is fortunate that most of the breeds have been so carefully and selectively bred that they have not lost their original identity. |
Physically the Spitz breeds are recognizable by the shape of the head, the position and shape of the pricked ears and almond eyes, the curled tail and the type of coat. The typical Spitz head is usually described as wedge-shaped. This refers to the shape of the skull as seen from above.
A feature of all the breeds is the pronounced 'stop' which, although more clearly defined in some breeds than others, is always present. The stop provides the Spitz breeds with an important element in their expression, giving an impression of 'forehead' over the eyes and behind the muzzle. |
| The muzzle in the Spitz breeds is relatively short giving the jaws tremendous strength. |
| The ears are small in comparison with most other breeds. They are pointed and pricked and the tips are usually above the point at which the flat top of the skull turns down towards the jaw. The ears of a Spitz can give hours of endless pleasure. Even when the dog is resting any sound will be matched by a precise movement of one or both ears. They are incredibly mobile and can almost turn and face the tail. |
| Probably the most immediately obvious physical characteristic of the Spitz breeds is the tail which should be well feathered and carried curled over the back. Different breeds carry their tails in slightly different ways. |
| With one or two exceptions the Spitz breeds have a double coat. Close to the skin there is a thick, dense, woolly undercoat, the primary purpose of which is insulation. Over this is a harsh outer coat of longer, coarser hair which is protective. Some Spitz have shorter coats, others have long coats. |
Thank you for visiting our site and do sign our guestbook
to let us know you were here!
