The German Spitz is one of the oldest dog breeds in Central Europe, with archaeological evidence placing spitz-type dogs alongside humans for at least 5,000 years. In Germany, they were called Mistbeller — literally “dung-hill barkers” — because they’d perch on the highest point they could find and bark at anything that moved. Farmers loved them for it. Your neighbours might feel differently.
If you’ve ever spotted a fluffy, fox-faced dog at the park that looks like a Pomeranian but is clearly bigger, you’ve probably met a German Spitz. The breed comes in two sizes recognised in Australia — Klein (small) and Mittel (medium) — and the confusion between these sizes, and between the German Spitz and its more famous cousin the Pomeranian, is the single most common question prospective owners ask. We’ll untangle all of it in this guide.
What you need to know upfront: the German Spitz is a devoted, lively, surprisingly robust little dog with a profuse double coat that sheds generously and a vocal streak that cannot be underestimated. They’re adaptable, long-lived, and genuinely healthy as a breed. But they bark. They bark at visitors, at possums, at the wind, at things they’ve imagined. If you can work with that — and it can be managed, not eliminated — you’ll find one of the most loyal, entertaining companions in the dog world. This guide covers both Klein and Mittel varieties for Australian owners, with honest temperament insights, health costs in AUD, grooming realities, and where to find registered breeders.
What You’ll Learn
- Breed traits & temperament
- Health concerns to know
- True cost in Australia
- Training & exercise needs
- Is this breed right for you?
Quick Facts at a Glance
| Trait | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | German Spitz (Klein) and German Spitz (Mittel) |
| Other Names | Deutscher Spitz, Kleinspitz, Mittelspitz |
| Origin | Germany / Central Europe (5,000+ years) |
| Breed Group | ANKC Group 7 — Non Sporting; FCI Group 5 — Spitz and Primitive Types |
| Height — Klein | 23–29 cm (9–11.5 inches) |
| Height — Mittel | 30–38 cm (12–15 inches) |
| Weight — Klein | 5–8 kg (11–18 lbs) |
| Weight — Mittel | 9–11.5 kg (20–25 lbs) |
| Lifespan | 13–16 years |
| Coat Type | Profuse double coat — soft woolly undercoat with long, harsh, straight topcoat |
| Coat Colours | All colours and markings accepted (except merle). Common: white, black, cream, orange, chocolate, black and tan, parti-colour. |
| Temperament | Alert, lively, devoted, vocal, confident, wary of strangers, independent |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate — 30–45 minutes daily; mental stimulation important |
| Shedding | Moderate to heavy — profuse seasonal shedding twice yearly |
| Hypoallergenic | No — heavy shedding breed with dense double coat |
| Good with Kids | Yes — good with respectful children; Klein may be too small for rough play |
| Good with Other Dogs | Good when socialised early; can be bossy with larger dogs |
| Good with Small Pets | Generally good — low prey drive compared to terriers and hounds |
| Barking Level | Very high — bred as alert watchdogs; vocal is a defining trait |
| Apartment Suitable | Yes, with bark management and adequate exercise |
| ANKC Recognition | Yes — Group 7 (Non Sporting). Klein and Mittel registered separately. |
| Australian Availability | Moderate — active breeders across NSW, VIC, QLD, SA |
| Price Range (AUD) | $1,500–$3,500+ (purebred from registered breeder) |
History & Origins
The German Spitz is genuinely ancient. This isn’t marketing language — archaeological evidence confirms spitz-type dogs have been living alongside humans in Central Europe for over 5,000 years, making the Deutscher Spitz one of the oldest identifiable breed types on the continent. The earliest written references date to 1450, when Count Eberhard zu Sayn described them as valiant defenders of home and fields.
Farm Dogs, Barge Dogs, and Dung-Hill Barkers
The German Spitz earned its keep through alertness, not brawn. On farms, they’d climb to the highest vantage point available — a dung heap, a fence post, a hay bale — and bark at the first sign of anything unusual. German farmers called them Mistbeller (dung-hill barkers), a nickname that tells you everything about the breed’s preferred strategy: find high ground and use your voice. Traders and fishermen also kept spitz dogs on barges along the Rhine as watchdogs for their goods. The larger spitz varieties selected for this river work eventually became the Keeshond (Wolfspitz).
The Spitz Family Tree
In Germany, the German Spitz is considered a single breed with five size varieties: the Wolfspitz (Keeshond), Großspitz (Giant), Mittelspitz (Medium), Kleinspitz (Miniature), and Zwergspitz (Toy, which is the Pomeranian). In English-speaking countries, these are typically separated into distinct breeds. In Australia, the ANKC recognises the Klein and Mittel as separate registrations under the same breed umbrella. The Pomeranian and Keeshond are registered as their own breeds entirely.
This family tree is the source of endless confusion. The toy-sized German Spitz was exported to England from the Pomerania region of Germany over a century ago, where it became the Pomeranian — a breed that Queen Victoria adored and selectively bred smaller. The Pomeranian has since developed its own standard and identity, but the genetic relationship with the German Spitz is direct and close.
Royal Connections and Declining Popularity
The German Spitz enjoyed royal patronage in the 18th century, particularly under King George I of England and his German wife. The breed was once extremely popular across Europe. However, its popularity declined through the 20th century, even in Germany. The Giant Spitz (Großspitz) became endangered and remains rare. The Klein and Mittel varieties have fared better, particularly in the UK, Germany, and Australasia, but the breed remains relatively uncommon compared to its descendants.
The German Spitz in Australia
The German Spitz has an established presence in Australia, with the ANKC registering both Klein and Mittel varieties under Group 7 (Non Sporting). Active breeding communities exist across NSW, Victoria, Queensland, and South Australia. Australian breeders have imported bloodlines from Europe, the UK, and New Zealand to maintain genetic diversity. The breed has a dedicated following in the show ring, with Australian-bred dogs achieving championship titles nationally and internationally. Breed clubs and state kennel councils are the best starting points for prospective owners looking for registered breeders.
Klein vs Mittel: Understanding the Two Sizes
This is the section most people are actually looking for. The distinction between Klein and Mittel — and between both of them and the Pomeranian — generates more confusion than any other aspect of the breed. Here’s the definitive breakdown.
| Feature | German Spitz Klein | German Spitz Mittel | Pomeranian |
|---|---|---|---|
| Height | 23–29 cm (9–11.5 in) | 30–38 cm (12–15 in) | 18–24 cm (7–9 in) |
| Weight | 5–8 kg (11–18 lbs) | 9–11.5 kg (20–25 lbs) | 1.5–3 kg (3–7 lbs) |
| Coat | Profuse double coat, straight topcoat | Profuse double coat, straight topcoat | Extremely profuse, shorter body, more “puffball” |
| Face Shape | Fox-like, moderate muzzle | Fox-like, moderate muzzle | Shorter muzzle, more domed skull |
| Temperament | Alert, vocal, devoted, feisty | Alert, vocal, devoted, slightly calmer | Bold, curious, very attached |
| Exercise | Moderate (30+ min/day) | Moderate (30–45 min/day) | Low–moderate (20–30 min/day) |
| ANKC Group | Group 7 (Non Sporting) | Group 7 (Non Sporting) | Group 1 (Toys) |
| Registered Separately in AU? | Yes | Yes | Yes — separate breed |
German Spitz vs Pomeranian: How to Tell Them Apart
The Pomeranian descended directly from the German Spitz (specifically the Zwergspitz), but over a century of separate breeding has created meaningful differences. The Pomeranian is smaller, has a shorter muzzle, a more rounded skull, and an even more profuse coat that creates a distinctive “puffball” silhouette. The German Spitz retains the more natural, fox-like head with a longer muzzle, and has a slightly leaner build under all that coat. Temperament-wise, both are alert and vocal, but the German Spitz is generally considered more robust, slightly less fragile, and a touch more independent.
In Australia, these are entirely separate breeds with separate ANKC registrations. A responsible breeder will not cross them or present one as the other. If you’re unsure which you’re looking at, check the ANKC papers — the registration will specify the breed clearly.
German Spitz Temperament & Personality
The German Spitz is a big personality in a compact, fluffy package. They are devoted to their families to the point of being velcro dogs — happiest when they can see you, touch you, or ideally sit on you. Their alertness and vocal nature made them outstanding farm watchdogs for centuries, and those instincts are fully intact.
German Spitz dogs bark. This is not a defect or a training failure — it’s their purpose-bred behaviour. For 5,000 years, humans selected these dogs specifically because they barked at anything unusual. The result is a breed with a hair-trigger alert system and a high-pitched bark that carries. They bark at visitors, delivery drivers, passing dogs, unfamiliar noises, birds in the garden, and occasionally at nothing you can perceive. Bark management through consistent training (teaching a “quiet” cue, rewarding calm behaviour, ensuring adequate stimulation) can reduce the volume significantly, but it cannot be eliminated entirely. If you live in a noise-sensitive environment — apartments with thin walls, close neighbours who value silence — this breed will test the arrangement.
German Spitz dogs form intense bonds with their owners. They’re affectionate, loyal, and want to be involved in everything. This devotion is one of their most appealing traits, but it also means they can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods without conditioning. They’re not independent loners — they need their people. The Mittel variety is sometimes described as slightly more relaxed about this than the Klein, but both are fundamentally companion dogs.
German Spitz dogs are naturally suspicious of strangers. This is the watchdog instinct at work — they take their guarding role seriously, even if they weigh 6 kg. Early, thorough socialisation is essential to prevent this wariness from tipping into nervousness or defensive aggression. A well-socialised German Spitz will alert you to visitors and then settle once they’re satisfied. A poorly socialised one can become anxious, snappy, or relentlessly vocal around unfamiliar people.
German Spitz dogs are generally good with children, particularly respectful older kids. The Mittel is sturdy enough for family play. The Klein, being smaller, can be fragile around toddlers and very young children who may handle them too roughly. As with all small breeds, supervision is appropriate, and children should be taught to respect the dog’s space. German Spitz dogs are playful and enjoy interactive games, making them engaging companions for kids who understand boundaries.
Unlike terriers and hounds, the German Spitz was not bred to hunt prey. Their prey drive is relatively low, and they generally coexist well with cats and other household pets, particularly if raised together. They can be bossy with other dogs — the classic small-dog confidence — but they’re not typically dog-aggressive. Early socialisation with dogs of various sizes helps prevent the “big dog in a small body” attitude from becoming problematic.
German Spitz Health & Genetic Conditions
The German Spitz is one of the healthier breeds you’ll encounter. Their long history as working farm dogs with minimal extreme breeding for appearance has preserved a robust constitution. That said, no breed is immune to health issues, and there are several conditions prospective owners should understand.
The most common orthopaedic issue in small breeds, where the kneecap slides out of its normal groove. Grades range from I (occasional slipping, minimal discomfort) to IV (permanently displaced, requires surgery). Many German Spitz with low-grade luxation live comfortably without intervention. Higher grades affect mobility and may need surgical correction.
Estimated AUD cost: Diagnosis costs $200–$500. Surgical correction runs $2,000–$5,000 per knee.
A degenerative eye condition where the photoreceptor cells in the retina gradually deteriorate, leading to progressive vision loss and eventually blindness. PRA is inherited, and DNA testing is available. Responsible breeders test breeding stock and can confirm clear, carrier, or affected status.
Estimated AUD cost: DNA test costs $70–$150. Annual eye exams cost $150–$300. PRA itself cannot be treated — management involves adapting the home environment as vision declines.
An abnormal development of the retina detectable in young puppies. Severity varies from mild folds (which may not affect vision) to severe detachment (which causes blindness). Breeding stock should be eye-tested to reduce the incidence.
Estimated AUD cost: Diagnosis via ophthalmological exam costs $150–$350. Mild cases require monitoring only.
Seizure disorders have been documented in the breed, though the incidence is low. Epilepsy can often be managed effectively with long-term medication, allowing affected dogs to live normal, comfortable lives.
Estimated AUD cost: Diagnosis costs $500–$3,000 (may include MRI). Ongoing medication costs $300–$1,200 per year. Regular blood monitoring costs $200–$500 per year.
A condition where the cartilage rings supporting the windpipe weaken, causing the airway to flatten during breathing. This produces a characteristic harsh, goose-honk cough, particularly during excitement or exercise. It’s more common in smaller varieties (Klein) and can be worsened by obesity. Mild cases are managed with weight control and avoiding collar pressure (use a chest strap lead instead). Severe cases may require medication or surgery.
Estimated AUD cost: Diagnosis (X-ray, fluoroscopy) costs $300–$800. Medical management costs $200–$800 per year. Surgical stenting, if required, costs $4,000–$10,000.
Common in small breeds due to crowded teeth. Tartar buildup, gingivitis, and tooth decay are preventable with regular dental care. Professional dental cleaning under anaesthetic is recommended periodically, and daily brushing at home is ideal.
Estimated AUD cost: Professional dental cleaning costs $400–$1,200 per session. Extractions, if needed, add $200–$800.
The Klein variety is especially prone to weight gain, which can trigger a cascade of secondary problems including joint stress, diabetes, and worsened tracheal collapse. German Spitz owners need to measure food portions carefully, limit treats, and resist those convincing eyes. These dogs are persuasive beggars.
Request DNA testing results for PRA, eye certifications, patella grading, and hip scores (for Mittel). Australian breeders are increasingly thorough with health testing. Many test the full breed panel and will share results openly. Puppies should come with a vet health check, vaccination records, microchip, and worming history. Breeders using Puppy Culture protocols are a positive sign of commitment to early socialisation and development.
German Spitz Lifespan & Longevity
The German Spitz is a long-lived breed, with a typical lifespan of 13–16 years. Some individuals live well beyond this, particularly those from health-tested lines with good nutrition and regular veterinary care. Their robustness and lack of extreme physical features (no shortened muzzle, no exaggerated proportions) contribute to their longevity.
Age-Specific Care
| Life Stage | Age | Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy | 0–12 months | Socialisation is critical — expose to diverse people, dogs, environments, and sounds to counteract natural wariness of strangers. Establish grooming routines early. Begin bark management training. Vaccinations and initial vet visits. |
| Adolescent | 12–24 months | Boundary-testing phase. Consistent training, continued socialisation. The coat begins to fill out — establish regular brushing routine. Transition to adult food around 12 months. |
| Adult | 2–10 years | Prime years. Annual vet checks, dental care (small breeds are prone to dental disease), weight management. Maintain exercise and stimulation. Regular grooming schedule through seasonal coat changes. |
| Mature Adult | 10–13 years | Biannual vet visits. Monitor joints (patellar luxation may progress). Watch for eye changes (PRA, cataracts). Adjust exercise intensity. Dental health increasingly important. |
| Senior | 13+ years | Senior blood panels, twice-yearly vet checks. Monitor vision, hearing, mobility, and cognitive function. Many German Spitz remain bright and active well into their senior years. |
Grooming & Coat Care
The German Spitz has a spectacular double coat — a soft, dense, woolly undercoat covered by long, harsh, perfectly straight guard hairs that stand off the body. The abundant ruff around the neck and shoulders, the feathered legs, and the profusely plumed tail give the breed its distinctive silhouette. Maintaining this coat is not overly complicated, but it does require consistency.
The Coat Blowout Reality
Twice a year — typically in spring and autumn — the German Spitz sheds its undercoat in spectacular fashion. This is the “coat blow,” and it is exactly as dramatic as it sounds. For 2–4 weeks, you’ll find clouds of soft undercoat everywhere: on your furniture, your clothes, in your food, floating through the air like tiny tumbleweeds. Daily brushing with an undercoat rake or slicker brush during these periods is essential to manage the volume and prevent matting. Outside of coat-blowing season, the German Spitz sheds moderately.
| Grooming Task | Frequency | Estimated AUD Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brushing | 2–3 times per week; daily during coat blow | $30–$60 for pin brush + slicker + undercoat rake | Essential to prevent matting, particularly behind ears, under legs, and around the ruff. Always brush to the skin, not just the surface. |
| Bathing | Every 4–6 weeks or as needed | $15–$30 per dog shampoo | The coat naturally repels dirt. Overbathing strips oils and damages coat texture. Use a quality dog shampoo and conditioner; blow-dry thoroughly to prevent damp undercoat. |
| Professional Grooming | Every 8–12 weeks (optional) | $60–$120 per session | Many German Spitz owners groom at home. Professional grooming is helpful during coat-blow season or for owners less confident with grooming. |
| Nail Trimming | Every 2–3 weeks | $15–$25 per clipper; $15–$30 at groomer | Small breeds often need more frequent trimming as they don’t wear nails down naturally on hard surfaces. |
| Ear Cleaning | Weekly check; clean as needed | $15–$25 per ear cleaner | Erect ears provide good airflow, reducing infection risk. Check weekly for wax buildup. |
| Dental Care | Daily brushing ideal; minimum 3x per week | $10–$20 for dog toothpaste + brush | Small breeds are prone to dental disease. Daily brushing is the most effective prevention. |
Never Shave a German Spitz
This is non-negotiable. The double coat insulates against both heat and cold. Shaving destroys the coat’s structure, removes UV protection, and the coat may never grow back correctly — it can return patchy, woolly, or with a permanently altered texture. In Australian summer, the double coat actually helps regulate temperature. If your German Spitz is hot, provide shade, fresh water, air conditioning, and limit exercise during peak heat. Shaving is never the solution.
Australian Climate Considerations
The German Spitz’s coat provides excellent insulation in both directions — warmth in winter and heat protection in summer. They handle Australian winters effortlessly across all states. In summer, manage exercise timing (early morning, late evening), ensure constant access to water and shade, and consider cooling mats or air conditioning during extreme heat. Their coat colour doesn’t significantly affect heat management, but darker-coated dogs may warm up faster in direct sun. The coat-blow timing in Australia typically aligns with the shifts into and out of summer.
German Spitz Exercise Needs
One of the German Spitz’s practical advantages is its moderate exercise requirements. These are not marathon dogs. They’re alert and energetic, but they don’t need the extensive physical output of herding or sporting breeds. This makes them genuinely suitable for a wider range of living situations, including apartments and homes with small yards.
Daily exercise recommendation: 30–45 minutes for Mittel; 20–35 minutes for Klein. A combination of a walk and interactive play or training is sufficient. They enjoy exploring and will happily accompany you on longer outings, but they won’t demand them.
Mental stimulation: Just as important as physical exercise, and arguably more so for preventing boredom-related barking. Puzzle toys, scentwork, trick training, and varied walking routes keep their sharp minds engaged. A bored German Spitz will entertain itself with barking, digging, or creative destruction.
Good Activities for German Spitz in Australia
Trick training — German Spitz are clever and enjoy learning new tricks; this is mentally stimulating and strengthens the bond. Agility — their small size and enthusiasm make them surprisingly good agility dogs. Rally obedience — structured enough to engage their minds, varied enough to hold their interest. Neighbourhood walks — simple but effective; vary the route to keep things interesting. Play sessions — fetch, tug, hide-and-seek with treats or toys.
Exercise Cautions
Recall: German Spitz generally have a better recall than terriers, as they lack the intense prey drive. However, they can still be distracted by interesting smells or sights. Off-lead exercise is best in secure, fenced areas until recall is reliably trained.
Heat: In Australian summer, walk during the coolest parts of the day. Check pavement temperature with the back of your hand before walking — small dogs are closer to hot surfaces. Carry water and watch for signs of overheating.
Training Your German Spitz
The German Spitz is intelligent and trainable — considerably more so than many people expect. Unlike some small breeds that are difficult to motivate, the German Spitz actually wants to engage with you. The AKC describes them as “very teachable and easy to train,” and while that’s slightly optimistic, they’re certainly more cooperative than terriers. The key challenges are managing the barking and overcoming their natural wariness of strangers through socialisation.
Training Difficulty: Honest Assessment
On a scale of 1 (Labrador) to 10 (Basenji), the German Spitz sits around 4–5. They’re motivated by both food and praise, they learn quickly, and they enjoy the interaction of training sessions. The stubbornness is real but manageable with patience and consistency. The bigger training challenge isn’t obedience — it’s socialisation and bark management.
Age-Based Training Guide
| Age | Training Focus | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 8–12 weeks | Socialisation (critical priority), bite inhibition, name recognition, crate training | Socialisation is the single most important thing you’ll do. Expose the puppy to diverse people, dogs, environments, surfaces, and sounds. This breed is naturally wary of strangers — early socialisation prevents this from becoming problematic. |
| 3–6 months | Basic commands (sit, down, stay, come), leash manners, “quiet” cue introduction | Begin teaching a “quiet” cue early. Allow a few alert barks, then redirect to calm behaviour and reward silence. Keep sessions short (3–5 minutes), upbeat, and reward-based. |
| 6–12 months | Reliable recall, impulse control, settling on cue, continued socialisation | Adolescence brings boundary-testing. Stay consistent. The “settle” command is particularly valuable — teaching the dog to relax on a mat or bed on cue helps manage barking and excitement. |
| 12–18 months | Advanced obedience, trick training, introduction to dog sports if interested | German Spitz often thrive in structured activities. Trick training and agility channel their intelligence into productive outlets. Continue socialisation — it’s a lifelong process for this breed. |
| 18 months+ | Maintenance, ongoing enrichment, bark management, continued socialisation with new people | A well-trained German Spitz is a genuinely delightful companion. But training doesn’t stop — maintain routines, continue exposing them to new experiences, and manage barking consistently. |
Bark Management: The Essential Skill
You will spend more training time on bark management than any other behaviour. The approach that works: allow the initial alert barks (2–3 barks is reasonable — the dog is doing its job), then calmly redirect attention to you using a treat or toy, give the “quiet” cue, and reward the silence that follows. Consistency is critical — every family member must use the same approach. What doesn’t work: yelling (the dog thinks you’re joining in), punishment (creates anxiety, which increases barking), bark collars (the dog’s barking is deeply rooted instinct — suppressing it without addressing the cause creates stress and often redirects into other problem behaviours).
Socialisation: Non-Negotiable
The German Spitz’s natural wariness of strangers is a feature, not a bug — but only if it’s properly managed. Without thorough socialisation, wariness escalates into fearfulness, defensive barking, or aggression. Puppy school is essential. Controlled exposure to diverse people (different ages, appearances, uniforms), dogs, environments, and novel situations during the critical socialisation window (8–16 weeks) builds the confidence that prevents problems later.
Cost of Owning a German Spitz in Australia
The German Spitz is a moderately priced breed to purchase and relatively affordable to maintain. Their moderate exercise needs, manageable grooming requirements (if you learn to do it yourself), and robust health keep ongoing costs reasonable compared to breeds with higher veterinary or grooming demands.
Purchase Price
Purebred German Spitz puppy (ANKC registered breeder): $1,500–$3,500+ AUD. Show-quality puppies and those from imported bloodlines sit at the higher end. Pet-quality puppies from health-tested parents are generally $1,500–$2,500. Some colour varieties may command a premium.
Rescue/Rehome: Breed-specific rescue is occasionally available through breed clubs and state kennel councils. Adoption fees typically range from $300–$600 and include desexing, vaccinations, and microchipping.
Annual Ongoing Costs (AUD Estimates)
| Expense | Low Estimate | High Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food (premium small-breed formula) | $500 | $1,000 | Small breed with moderate appetite. Portion control is important, especially for Klein variety. |
| Vet (annual check, vaccines, flea/tick/worming) | $350 | $700 | Add annual eye exam for PRA screening. Dental checks important. |
| Pet Insurance | $300 | $800 | Recommended for coverage of patellar luxation, eye conditions, and tracheal issues. |
| Grooming (DIY with occasional professional) | $100 | $600 | Most German Spitz owners groom at home. Main cost is tools. Professional grooming during coat-blow season is helpful. |
| Dental Care (professional cleaning every 1–2 years) | $200 | $600 | Small breeds need regular professional dental cleaning to prevent disease. |
| Training (puppy school, ongoing classes) | $200 | $600 | Essential investment, particularly for socialisation and bark management. |
| Toys, bedding, leads, bowls, body lead | $100 | $300 | Use a body lead rather than collar to protect the trachea. Puzzle toys help mental stimulation. |
| Council registration | $30 | $250 | Varies by council and desexing status. |
| Boarding / pet sitting | $0 | $1,200 | German Spitz do best with familiar pet sitters. Their barking and attachment can make commercial kennels stressful. |
Total estimated annual cost: $1,780–$6,050 AUD. Over a 14-year lifespan, total ownership costs including purchase run approximately $26,400–$88,200+.
Where to Find German Spitz Puppies in Australia
Start with Dogs Australia (ANKC) and search for registered Klein or Mittel breeders through DogzOnline. Active breeders are located in NSW, Victoria, Queensland, and South Australia. State breed clubs and Dogs Victoria, Dogs NSW, Dogs Queensland, and Dogs SA can direct you to registered breeders in your area. The breed is more available than many of the rarer breeds covered in this series — multiple breeders regularly produce litters — but expect some wait time for specific colours or if you’re particular about Klein vs Mittel. As always, avoid unregistered sellers, pet shops, and online marketplaces. A registered breeder will provide ANKC papers, health testing results, and ongoing support.
Is the German Spitz Right for You?
You want a devoted, affectionate companion that bonds closely with its family. You can manage (not eliminate) barking through consistent training. You have time for regular grooming, particularly during seasonal coat blows. You want a small dog that is robust, healthy, and long-lived. You have older children or respectful younger children (Mittel). You live in an apartment or small home with adequate bark management in place. You want a low-to-moderate exercise dog that’s adaptable to your lifestyle. You’re interested in dog sports or trick training. You’re happy with a dog that’s vocal and communicative.
You need a quiet dog — this is a barking breed and always will be. You have strict noise restrictions in your living situation. You dislike dog hair — the seasonal coat blow is dramatic. You want a dog that’s immediately friendly with all strangers. You can’t commit to early, thorough socialisation. You want a dog that can be left alone for long periods without separation issues. You’re looking for an extremely low-maintenance breed with no grooming requirements.
If you love the spitz look but want less barking, the Japanese Spitz is a calmer, quieter option with a similar fox-faced appearance (though coat care is comparable). The Keeshond is a larger spitz with a similar devoted temperament and excellent family-dog reputation. If you want a small, fluffy companion with lower vocal output, the Bichon Frise or Havanese are less bark-oriented alternatives. If you’re drawn to the Pomeranian comparison but want something sturdier, the German Spitz Klein is exactly that — a more robust, slightly larger version of the same spitz type.
The good: Exceptionally devoted and affectionate companion. Long-lived and genuinely healthy breed. Beautiful, profuse coat in a wide range of colours. Moderate exercise needs suit most lifestyles. Adaptable to apartments and houses alike. Good with children and other pets. Intelligent and trainable. Robust constitution — no extreme physical features causing health problems. Good availability from Australian breeders at reasonable prices.
The challenging: Barking — this is a vocal breed by design and management is a lifelong commitment. Profuse seasonal shedding requires consistent grooming. Natural wariness of strangers demands thorough socialisation. Can develop separation anxiety if not conditioned to alone time. The Klein variety is fragile around rough handling. Potential for small-dog syndrome if boundaries aren’t maintained.
The bottom line: The German Spitz is one of the best-kept secrets in the companion dog world. It offers the spitz appearance that people love — the fox face, the plumed tail, the magnificent coat — in a robust, healthy, long-lived package with moderate exercise needs and a devoted temperament. The barking is the price of admission. If you can pay it willingly and manage it consistently, the German Spitz will repay you with 14–16 years of unwavering loyalty, entertainment, and companionship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a German Spitz and a Pomeranian?
The Pomeranian descended from the German Spitz (specifically the Zwergspitz/toy variety) but has been bred separately for over a century. The Pomeranian is smaller (1.5–3 kg vs 5–11.5 kg for German Spitz Klein/Mittel), has a shorter muzzle, a more domed skull, and an extremely profuse “puffball” coat. The German Spitz retains a more natural, fox-like head with a longer muzzle and a leaner build. In Australia, they are entirely separate breeds with separate ANKC registrations.
What is the difference between Klein and Mittel?
Size is the primary distinction. The Klein stands 23–29 cm and weighs 5–8 kg; the Mittel stands 30–38 cm and weighs 9–11.5 kg. Temperament is very similar, though Mittels are sometimes described as slightly calmer. Both are registered separately with the ANKC in Australia. Choose Klein if you want a smaller, more portable companion; choose Mittel if you want a sturdier dog better suited to active family life.
Do German Spitz dogs bark a lot?
Yes. Barking is a defining trait of the breed — they were bred for 5,000+ years as alert watchdogs. They bark at visitors, noises, animals, and changes in their environment. Training can reduce excessive barking (teaching a “quiet” cue, rewarding calm behaviour), but it cannot be eliminated. If you need a quiet dog, the German Spitz is not the right choice.
Do German Spitz dogs shed?
Yes, moderately year-round and heavily twice yearly during seasonal coat blows (spring and autumn). During coat blow, daily brushing is needed to manage the volume of undercoat being shed. Between blowing seasons, 2–3 brushings per week keep the coat in good condition. Regular grooming significantly reduces household hair.
Are German Spitz dogs hypoallergenic?
No. The German Spitz has a profuse double coat that sheds moderately to heavily. They are not suitable for people with significant dog allergies. No breed is truly hypoallergenic, but the German Spitz is further from that end of the spectrum than breeds like Poodles or Bichon Frises.
What is the German Spitz temperament like?
Alert, lively, devoted to their owner, confident, vocal, and wary of strangers. They’re affectionate and playful with family, good with children, and generally good with other pets. They bond closely and can develop separation anxiety. Early socialisation is essential to manage their natural suspicion of unfamiliar people and situations.
How big does a German Spitz get?
The Klein variety stands 23–29 cm and weighs 5–8 kg. The Mittel stands 30–38 cm and weighs 9–11.5 kg. They’re compact, well-proportioned dogs that look larger than they are due to their profuse coat.
How long do German Spitz dogs live?
13–16 years, which is excellent for any breed. Their robust constitution, lack of extreme physical features, and relatively few serious genetic health conditions contribute to their longevity. With proper care, many German Spitz live well into their mid-teens.
How much does a German Spitz cost in Australia?
Purebred puppies from ANKC-registered breeders typically cost $1,500–$3,500+ AUD. Show-quality puppies and those from imported bloodlines are at the higher end. Pet-quality puppies from health-tested parents are generally $1,500–$2,500. Some colour varieties may command a premium. Ongoing annual costs run approximately $1,780–$6,050 depending on grooming and veterinary needs.
Are German Spitz dogs good for first-time owners?
Yes, with preparation. They’re adaptable, moderately trainable, and healthy. The main challenges for first-time owners are managing the barking and committing to proper socialisation. If you’re willing to invest in puppy school, consistent bark management training, and regular grooming, the German Spitz can be an excellent first dog.
Can German Spitz live in apartments?
Yes. Their small size and moderate exercise needs make them physically suited to apartment living. The primary concern is barking — in a noise-sensitive apartment environment, you’ll need to invest significantly in bark management training. Adequate daily exercise and mental stimulation help reduce boredom-related barking.
What colours do German Spitz come in?
All colours and markings are accepted except merle. Common colours include white, black, cream, orange, chocolate, red, black and tan, and parti-colour (patches of two or more colours). This is one of the breed’s appealing features — there’s an enormous range of colours to choose from.
1. American Kennel Club — German Spitz Breed Information: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/german-spitz/
2. Wikipedia — German Spitz: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/German_Spitz
3. Daily Paws — German Spitz Dog Breed Information: https://www.dailypaws.com/dogs-puppies/dog-breeds/german-spitz
4. DogZone — German Spitz Breed Information: https://www.dogzone.com/breeds/german-spitz/
5. Wag! — German Spitz Characteristics and Care: https://wagwalking.com/breed/german-spitz
6. Dogs Victoria — German Spitz (Klein) (Mittel): https://dogsvictoria.org.au/choosing-a-breed/browse-all-breeds/187/German-Spitz—(Klein)-(Mittel)/
7. DogzOnline — German Spitz Mittel Breeders Australia: https://www.dogzonline.com.au/breeds/breeders/german-spitz-mittel.asp
8. DogzOnline — German Spitz Klein Breeders Australia: https://www.dogzonline.com.au/breeds/breeders/german-spitz-klein.asp
9. PuppyList Australia — German Spitz Price: https://puppylist.com.au/breeds/german-spitz/price/
10. The Royal Kennel Club (UK) — German Spitz (Klein) Breed Standard: https://www.royalkennelclub.com/breed-standards/utility/german-spitz-klein/