Danish Spitz

Table of Contents

Quick Facts

• Charming Nordic spitz from Denmark with a foxlike face and a permanently cheerful expression
• Medium sized, sturdy companion dog that thrives on close contact with its family
• Dense double coat that copes well with cold, wet weather but needs regular brushing
• Naturally alert watchdog that will let you know about visitors without being a true guard dog
• Still a relatively rare breed outside Scandinavia, with dedicated breeders focused on health and temperament

Appearance & Coat

The Danish Spitz is a medium sized, balanced dog with the typical wedge shaped head and pricked ears that many people associate with Nordic spitz breeds. Seen from a distance, many compare it to a slightly smaller Samoyed or a lighter built Japanese Spitz, but once you spend time with the breed you will notice its own special look.

Adult males usually stand a little taller and appear more powerful than females, but both sexes should give an impression of agility rather than heaviness. The body is slightly longer than it is high, with a straight, firm back and a deep chest that reaches to the elbows. Legs are strong but not coarse, giving the dog a light, elastic movement that looks almost effortless when it trots beside you.

The head is wedge shaped when seen from above and from the side, with a clear but not exaggerated stop. The muzzle tapers gently and is never too short or blunt. Dark, almond shaped eyes give the Danish Spitz its friendly, attentive expression, and the triangular ears stand high on the head, carried erect and mobile when the dog is alert. The tail is one of the breed’s trademarks. It is set high and carried curled over the back, often with a light, feathery plume of hair.

The coat is a classic double coat that protects against both cold and heat. The outer coat is straight, harsh, and weather resistant, while the undercoat is dense and soft. Around the neck and shoulders, many dogs develop a fuller collar or ruff, especially males. The fur is shorter on the head and front of the legs, and longer on the body, tail, and back of the thighs. Accepted colors typically range from pure white to cream, biscuit, or light tan shades. Some dogs may have slightly darker shading on the ears or along the back, which often adds to their foxlike charm.

Although the coat looks luxurious, it is not difficult to care for if you keep to a routine. A thorough brushing 2 or 3 times a week removes loose hair, prevents mats, and keeps the coat looking clean and bright. During seasonal shedding, usually once or twice a year, you may need to brush daily to keep hair under control and to help the old undercoat fall out. A pin brush combined with a metal comb works well. Most Danish Spitz dogs do not need frequent baths. Unless they roll in something truly unpleasant, a bath every few months is usually enough. Overbathing can strip the coat of natural oils and make it less weather resistant. Pay attention to the feathering behind the ears, the pants on the back of the thighs, and the tail, as these areas can tangle more easily. Regular nail trimming, ear checks, and dental care round off a sensible grooming routine and keep your Danish Spitz comfortable and healthy.

Temperament & Personality

The temperament of the Danish Spitz is one of its strongest assets. This is, at heart, a companion dog that loves to be involved in everything its people do. Owners often describe the breed as cheerful, curious, and slightly mischievous, with a good sense of humor and a strong desire to be part of family life.

Around the home, the Danish Spitz tends to be lively without being frantic. It will happily follow you from room to room, supervise household tasks, and settle close by once it sees that nothing exciting is happening. Many make excellent family dogs because they enjoy attention and usually bond closely with all members of the household rather than just one person. They can be very affectionate, but often in a more dignified, slightly independent way than some velcro breeds. Expect a dog that likes to be near you, but that is also capable of entertaining itself with a toy or by watching the world from a window.

With children, a well bred and properly socialized Danish Spitz is typically playful, patient, and tolerant. That said, no dog should be expected to cope with rough handling. Families should always teach children how to interact politely, for instance by:

• Letting the dog approach for cuddles instead of chasing it
• Avoiding climbing on the dog or pulling fur and tail
• Respecting the dog’s bed as a quiet retreat

If you give the dog gentle, predictable interactions, the Danish Spitz is often a joyful playmate for school aged children and a calm companion for quieter moments.

With strangers and visitors, the breed is usually reserved at first. Many Danish Spitz dogs will announce someone at the door with a clear bark and then take a little time to decide whether the newcomer is a friend. Once they are reassured, most warm up gradually and can become quite friendly, but they rarely fling themselves at strangers immediately. Early and positive socialization is essential so this natural caution does not develop into nervousness.

Around other dogs and pets, temperament can vary between individuals, but many do well when introduced properly. They often enjoy canine company and may develop good friendships with dogs that share a similar play style. Their prey instinct is usually moderate. Some will live peacefully with cats and small pets if raised together, while others may be too interested and need careful management. It is wise to supervise early interactions and not to assume that every Danish Spitz will automatically accept a new small animal in the home.

One common challenge with the breed is its tendency to bark. The Danish Spitz is an alert dog, and many will comment on every passerby, unusual noise, or change in the environment. This quality makes them excellent natural watchdogs, but it can be a nuisance in close neighborhoods if owners do not teach a reliable quiet cue from an early age. Another challenge is their intelligent, sometimes independent nature. They are usually eager to learn, but they respond best to kind, consistent guidance. Harsh corrections or drilling repetition can make them stubborn or shut down. When treated fairly and involved as a true partner, the Danish Spitz is a charming, engaging companion with a big personality in a medium sized body.

Training & Exercise

The Danish Spitz is an active, clever breed that needs regular physical exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and well behaved. While it does not usually require the same intense workload as some herding or working breeds, it is not a couch potato either. Daily activity is essential.

In terms of physical exercise, most adult Danish Spitz dogs do well with at least one longer walk combined with one or two shorter outings each day. A good guideline is around one to two hours of mixed activity spread across the day for a healthy adult. This might include:

• Brisk walks on varied terrain
• Off leash running in safe, secure areas
• Games such as fetch, tug, or searching for hidden toys
• Short bursts of play in the garden

Puppies and young adolescents need slightly different management. Their growing joints should not be overloaded with long runs or repetitive jumping. Instead, focus on shorter, age appropriate walks, play sessions, gentle hill work, and lots of opportunities to sniff, explore, and develop confidence in different environments.

When it comes to training, the Danish Spitz typically responds very well to positive, reward based methods. Food treats, praise, and play are powerful motivators. The breed is sensitive to tone of voice and can become worried or stubborn if shouted at or punished. Many owners find that short, varied training sessions are most effective. Keep things fun, switch between exercises, and end on a success. You are more likely to see a bright, engaged dog that offers behaviors willingly if it enjoys the process.

Basic obedience such as sit, down, stay, loose leash walking, and a reliable recall are all important foundation skills. Because the breed can be quick and nimble, a solid recall is especially valuable when you are walking in open areas where wildlife, cyclists, or other dogs may appear suddenly. Training impulse control, such as waiting at doorways or sitting before being released to a meal or a toy, also helps channel their natural energy into good manners.

The Danish Spitz often shines in activities that let it combine agility, clever problem solving, and the chance to work closely with its person. Many enjoy:

• Agility or hoopers
• Rally obedience
• Nose work and scent games
• Trick training

Even if you never compete, using ideas from these sports provides mental stimulation and prevents boredom related behaviors such as nuisance barking or destructive chewing. Simple games like scattering a handful of kibble in the grass for your dog to search for, or hiding a favorite toy indoors and asking your dog to find it, can turn a rainy day into a satisfying challenge.

Socialization is another important part of early training. Introduce your Danish Spitz puppy to different environments, people, dogs, surfaces, sounds, and situations in a calm, controlled way. Reward calm curiosity and give the puppy time to observe from a safe distance if it feels unsure. Because the breed can be naturally reserved, this careful, positive exposure helps prevent shyness and supports a confident adult temperament.

With the right balance of exercise, mental work, and gentle but consistent guidance, the Danish Spitz usually grows into a well mannered, enjoyable companion that looks forward to training sessions rather than viewing them as a chore.

Health

The Danish Spitz is generally regarded as a relatively healthy breed with a good lifespan for a medium sized dog. Responsible breeders work carefully to maintain this status by health testing breeding stock and paying attention to temperament and overall soundness. As with any breed, however, there are certain health topics that prospective owners should understand.

Common concerns in medium sized, double coated breeds can include hip and elbow health, eye conditions, and, more rarely, autoimmune or endocrine issues. In the Danish Spitz, structured breeding programs in countries such as Denmark and Germany aim to monitor and reduce the incidence of inherited problems. When researching breeders, it is sensible to ask which health tests are performed and to request copies of results.

Tests and checks that are often recommended or useful include:

• Hip evaluation, typically through an official scoring system
• Eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist, repeated at intervals during the dog’s breeding life
• General veterinary checks of knees, heart, and overall structure

A responsible breeder should be open about the health status of their dogs and about any issues that have appeared in their lines. Complete absence of any problems at all can be a red flag, since honest breeders know that no breed is entirely free of risk.

The average lifespan of the Danish Spitz often ranges into the low to mid teens when cared for well. Many owners enjoy 12 to 14 years or more with their dogs. To support a long, healthy life, daily management is just as important as genetics. Key factors include:

• Keeping the dog at a lean, healthy weight
• Providing appropriate exercise throughout life, not just in youth
• Feeding a balanced, high quality diet that suits the dog’s age and activity level
• Staying up to date with vaccinations and parasite prevention based on local veterinary advice

Because the Danish Spitz has a dense double coat, owners should pay attention to skin and coat health. Excessive scratching, dull coat, hot spots, or recurring ear problems may indicate allergies or skin issues that need veterinary attention. Regular grooming helps you notice small changes early, such as lumps, irritations, or changes in muscle tone.

Dental care is another area sometimes overlooked. Small to medium spitz breeds can develop tartar and gum disease if their teeth are not cleaned. Daily or near daily tooth brushing with dog safe toothpaste, along with appropriate dental chews, can significantly reduce the risk of dental problems later in life.

As your Danish Spitz moves into senior years, routine veterinary checks become even more important. Blood tests, blood pressure measurement, and monitoring of mobility and vision can help detect age related changes early. With prompt treatment and thoughtful management of issues such as arthritis or reduced organ function, many older Danish Spitz dogs remain active and content companions well into advanced age.

Overall, while the Danish Spitz is not known for widespread severe hereditary disease, each individual dog still needs attentive care. Choosing a reputable breeder, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and working closely with your veterinarian provide the best foundation for a long, happy life together.

History & Origins

The Danish Spitz belongs to the large family of Nordic and European spitz dogs, many of which were originally farm and village companions. Its roots go back to the traditional spitz type dogs that lived in rural Denmark, where they served as all purpose helpers rather than specialized working dogs. These early spitz dogs watched over the homestead, kept an eye on poultry and small livestock, alerted to visitors, and provided companionship around the house and fields.

For a long time, these dogs were simply known as “farm spitz” and were not distinguished by a formal breed name or standardized appearance. They were valued for practicality and temperament more than for strict looks. Many families had their own version, often white or cream colored, hardy, good natured, and adaptable. This type of dog appears in old paintings and written descriptions from Denmark and neighboring regions, giving us glimpses of animals that strongly resemble the modern Danish Spitz.

As industrialization and urbanization changed rural life, the number of traditional farm spitz dogs declined. At the same time, foreign breeds became fashionable, and some local types risked disappearing altogether. Enthusiasts in Denmark recognized the cultural and historical value of these spitz dogs and began efforts to preserve them as a distinct national breed. By identifying suitable foundation dogs that still carried the old type and temperament, they worked to rebuild the population and establish a clear breed standard.

Kennel clubs gradually accepted the Danish Spitz as a separate breed with official recognition. Breed clubs in Denmark and, later, in other European countries, took over the responsibility of promoting careful breeding, organizing shows and events, and educating the public about the breed’s qualities. Throughout this process, there has been a strong focus on maintaining the breed’s friendly, companion oriented nature and its robust health, rather than turning it into a more extreme show dog.

Today, the Danish Spitz is still relatively rare outside its home region, but it is steadily gaining admirers. It is no longer a farmyard all rounder in the old sense, yet it retains many of the qualities that made it so useful in the past. It remains watchful, adaptable, and people oriented. Modern Danish Spitz dogs take part in various activities. Many are first and foremost cherished family companions, but they can also be seen in the show ring, in obedience and rally, in agility, and in newer dog sports such as nose work. In each of these roles, the breed’s intelligence, eagerness to please, and light, agile movement are clear to see.

For Denmark, the breed represents a living link to rural traditions and to a type of dog that might otherwise have faded into history. For owners around the world, the Danish Spitz offers a combination of old fashioned farm dog practicality with modern companion dog charm, making it a fascinating choice for those who appreciate heritage breeds.

Living with the Breed

Sharing your life with a Danish Spitz is a rewarding experience, but it comes with responsibilities that every prospective owner should consider carefully. This is not a dog that thrives with minimal interaction or in a home where it is left alone for very long hours on a regular basis. The Danish Spitz wants to be involved with its family, to join in daily routines, and to feel included.

In practical terms, you should expect to devote time each day to:

• Physical exercise in the form of walks and play
• Mental stimulation, such as training games, puzzle toys, or scent work
• Grooming, especially during shedding seasons
• Social contact, cuddles, and relaxed time together

For most people in full time work, this means planning around dog walkers, daycare, or flexible schedules so that your Danish Spitz is not isolated for long stretches. An under stimulated, bored dog may express frustration through barking, digging, or chewing furniture, so prevention through an active lifestyle is far better than correction later.

Financially, owning a Danish Spitz is similar to owning other medium sized, pedigree dogs. Initial costs include the purchase price, vaccinations, microchipping, spaying or neutering if not breeding, and basic equipment. Ongoing annual costs usually cover:

• Quality food suitable for the dog’s age and activity level
• Routine veterinary care and vaccinations
• Parasite prevention
• Pet insurance or a dedicated savings fund for emergencies
• Grooming tools and occasional professional grooming if desired
• Training classes, toys, and replacement of worn equipment

While exact figures vary by country and lifestyle, it is wise to budget for several thousand in local currency per year once all these elements are combined. Insurance and emergency funds are especially important, as even healthy dogs may sometimes need unexpected veterinary treatment.

In terms of living space, the Danish Spitz is adaptable. It can live in an apartment if exercise needs are met consistently, or in a house with a garden. A secure, fenced outdoor space is ideal, but not essential, as long as you are committed to regular outdoor walks. Remember that many Danish Spitz dogs are vocal watchdogs. Apartment dwellers or those in close neighborhoods should invest early in training to control barking on cue, and in providing enough stimulation that the dog does not bark through sheer boredom.

Useful equipment for living with a Danish Spitz includes:

• A well fitting harness and sturdy leash for walks
• A comfortable, washable dog bed placed in a quiet corner
• A selection of durable toys, including chewing options and puzzle feeders
• A good quality pin brush and comb, plus nail clippers or a grinder
• Food and water bowls that are easy to clean
• Identification tags and, in many countries, a registered microchip

Because the breed is curious and often quite agile, puppy proofing your home is important. Secure electrical cords, keep hazardous items such as cleaning products out of reach, and think about how your dog might access balconies, stairs, or gardens. Consistent routines around feeding, walks, training, and quiet time help a young Danish Spitz settle more easily.

Emotionally, living with this breed means accepting a close relationship. Many owners find that their Danish Spitz quickly learns their daily patterns and seems to anticipate activities. The dog may greet you enthusiastically at the door, curl up at your feet in the evening, and follow you with its eyes as you move about the house. If you enjoy that sense of constant companionship and are happy to invest time in training and engagement, the Danish Spitz can be a hugely satisfying partner.

For those who prefer a very independent dog, or who want a pet that is content with limited interaction, this may not be the best choice. But for people looking for a bright, loyal, and expressive friend, willing to offer structure, care, and long term commitment, living with a Danish Spitz can be a deeply enjoyable experience for many years.

Characteristics

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of temperament does the Danish Spitz have with families and children?

This is typically a bright, cheerful and people-focused companion that enjoys being involved in family life. They are usually affectionate with children and playful without being overly rough, but their energy and curiosity mean supervision with very young kids is still important. Consistent boundaries and early socialization help prevent bossy or vocal behavior in the home.

How much exercise does a Danish Spitz need each day?

Despite their moderate size, they are quite active and generally need at least 60 to 90 minutes of daily exercise. This should include brisk walks and opportunities for free movement or play, not just a quick walk around the block. Mental stimulation through training or scent games is also important, as they are intelligent and easily bored.

How much does a Danish Spitz shed and what grooming is required for the coat?

The double coat sheds year-round and typically has heavier seasonal shedding. Weekly brushing is usually enough to keep the coat in good condition, but during shedding seasons more frequent brushing is needed to remove loose undercoat. The coat is naturally relatively clean and should not be clipped; baths can be kept occasional unless the dog is dirty.

Is the Danish Spitz a noisy or barky breed?

They tend to be alert and vocal, which reflects their background as a watchdog on farms and in villages. Many individuals will bark to announce visitors, unusual noises or activity outside. Early training to teach a reliable “quiet” cue and enough daily activity can help keep barking at a manageable level.

What health problems are most common in the Danish Spitz?

Overall they are considered a relatively robust and healthy breed, but can be prone to some issues seen in similar Nordic spitz types. These may include patellar luxation, some eye conditions, and occasional skin or allergy problems. Responsible breeders screen for known risks and keep pedigrees relatively diverse to reduce inherited disease.

Is a Danish Spitz suitable for apartment living or small homes?

They can adapt to apartment or town living if their exercise and mental needs are reliably met each day. The main challenges are their energy level and tendency to bark, which can be a concern with close neighbors. Good sound insulation, regular outdoor activity and early training are essential in smaller living spaces.

How well does the Danish Spitz get along with other dogs and pets?

Most are sociable with other dogs when properly socialized, though some can be a bit proud or reserved with unfamiliar dogs. They generally have a manageable prey drive compared with some hunting spitzes, but care is still needed around small pets such as rodents or free-flying birds. Early introductions and controlled meetings help ensure peaceful cohabitation.

What is the origin of the Danish Spitz and how does it influence their behavior today?

The breed developed in Denmark as an all-purpose farm and village dog, used as an alert watchdog and companion rather than a specialized hunter or herder. This background explains their strong attachment to people, natural suspicion of strangers and tendency to bark when something changes in their environment. It also contributes to their hardy nature and ability to cope with varied weather.

Are Danish Spitz dogs easy to train for first-time owners?

They are intelligent and usually eager to work with their owner, but can show some independence and a playful will of their own. Consistent, reward-based training and short, varied sessions suit them best. A committed first-time owner can do well with the breed, provided they are prepared to invest time in training manners and managing barking and excitement.

What type of owner and lifestyle suits a Danish Spitz best?

They are best suited to owners who enjoy daily outdoor activity and want an involved, people-oriented companion rather than a quiet, low-maintenance pet. A household that can provide structure, training, and regular mental and physical exercise will usually find them rewarding. They thrive where they can stay close to their people instead of being left alone for long periods.

Sources

• Danish Kennel Club (Dansk Kennel Klub)
• The Kennel Club (UK)
• German Kennel Club (Verband für das Deutsche Hundewesen)