The Indian Spitz is a unique and charming breed. Its friendly, energetic, and loyal nature makes it an excellent choice for families and individuals alike.
In this article, we’ll delve into the history, physical characteristics, temperament, health concerns, and other key aspects of the Indian Spitz dog breed.
History and Origin of the Indian Spitz
Ancestors and Early Development
The Indian Spitz breed was originally developed in India, and its ancestors include various spitz-type dogs from Europe. These dogs were brought to India by British colonizers during the colonial times.
The Indian Spitz resembles the European Spitz but it is more adapted to the local climate. The breed became popular in the 1980s and 1990s when the Indian Government restricted the import of other dogs.
The Indian Spitz in Modern Times
Today, the Indian Spitz remains a popular breed in its native country. However, it is not recognized by the American Kennel Club or the United Kennel Club and is little known outside India.
Physical Characteristics and Appearance
Size and Weight
The Indian Spitz is a relatively small dog. Breed members stand 12 and 18 inches tall at the withers and weight around 7 to 16 pounds. Males are usually larger than females.
The dog is well proportioned with a square-shaped body and a head that tapers to a pointy snout. Despite the small size, the Indian Spitz is quite strong and robust.
Coat and Color
The Indian Spitz has a double-layered coat that is thick, fluffy, and long. The outer coat is made up of straight, dense hairs, while the undercoat is much softer and provides insulation.
The main coat color of the Indian Spitz is white, but some breed members can have dusky brown, black, or mixed coat colors. The coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Distinctive Features
The Indian Spitz is a small and fluffy white dog with a distinctive mane. It has a fox-like face with a pointed snout and erect, triangular ears. The eyes are dark and expressive with a lively expression.
The Indian Spitz has a compact and well-proportioned body with a tail that curls over its back. This tail is often wagging, indicating the breed’s friendly and affectionate nature.
Temperament and Personality Traits
Intelligence and Trainability
The Indian Spitz is highly intelligent and trainable. They are quick learners and adapt well to new environments and situations. Positive reinforcement and creating a nurturing environment with plenty of social interactions are vital for breed members.
Socialization and Friendliness
The Indian Spitz is a friendly and social breed, which makes them an excellent companion for families and individuals alike. They interact well with children, other dogs, and different kinds of people. However, it’s imperative to socialize them early on.
Energy Levels and Exercise Needs
The Indian Spitz is an active and energetic breed. It loves to run, play, and explore their surroundings. An hour of exercise per day will suffice. However, it can adapt to different lifestyles – from small apartments to large houses with huge backyards.
Health and Lifespan
Common Health Issues
The Indian Spitz is prone to several health conditions, such as:
- Orthopedic Issues: The top most frequently diagnosed orthopedic problems in the breed are hip dysplasia and luxating patella
- Eye Problems: The breed is at higher-than-average risk of eye issues, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is the most common
Preventative Care and Regular Checkups
A healthy diet, daily exercise, and regular visits are vital to the Indian Spitz’s overall health and wellness. It is also essential that you stay up-to-date on its vaccines, dewormers, and flea & tick preventatives.
Expected Lifespan
If cared for correctly, the Indian Spitz can have a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. With love, care, and proper preventative measures, your Indian Spitz can stay happy and healthy throughout their life.
Conclusion
The Indian Spitz is an ideal family pet. It is loyal and protective of its owners but also enjoys socializing with other dogs and people. It is intelligent and easy to train, although it can be stubborn at times.
Despite its small size, the Indian Spitz has a lot of energy and loves to play and run around. Plus, it makes a great watchdog, as it is alert and quick to bark at any potential danger.
