Japanese Spitz vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison

Japanese Spitz vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed ComparisonAmerican Eskimo Dog is originated from United States but Japanese Spitz is originated from Japan. American Eskimo Dog may grow 14 cm / 6 inches higher than Japanese Spitz. American Eskimo Dog may weigh 6 kg / 14 pounds more than Japanese Spitz. Both American Eskimo Dog and Japanese Spitz has almost same life span. Both American Eskimo Dog and Japanese Spitz has almost same litter size. American Eskimo Dog requires High Maintenance. But Japanese Spitz requires Low Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Companion dog
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United States
Japan
Height Male:
23 - 48 cm
9 - 19 inches
25 - 34 cm
9 - 14 inches
Height Female:
23 - 40 cm
9 - 16 inches
25 - 34 cm
9 - 14 inches
Weight Male:
4 - 16 kg
8 - 36 pounds
5 - 10 kg
11 - 23 pounds
Weight Female:
3 - 12 kg
6 - 27 pounds
5 - 10 kg
11 - 23 pounds
Life Span:
13 - 15 Years
10 - 16 Years
Litter Size:
1 - 5
1 - 6
Size:
Small
Small
Other Names:
, Spitz
Nihon Supittsu
Colors Available:
White with cream or biscuit markings
White
Coat:
Heavy, thick, double
Longish and fluffy
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Stubborn
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet, Territorial
Grooming:
High Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

american eskimo dogThe American Eskimo is derived from the Nordic Spitz breed and most closely related to the German Spitz in particular. There were many German Spitzes in the United States at the time of the second World War and anti-German sentiment caused its name to change to the American Eskimo Dog. However, as the breed developed over time in the States, the American Eskimo became its own separate breed. In addition to the German Spitz, the American Eskimo is also related to the white Keeshond, the Samoyed, the white Italian Spitz and the white Pomeranian. The history is beginning to show that the Spitzes that were brought to the US in the early 1900’s was white. This color was not popular in Europe but was quickly the favorite in the United States. They were originally working dogs on farms and ranches. They have excellent herding instincts, make goo watch and guard dogs, and good law enforcement sniff dogs. However, their first introduction to the American public was through the Cooper Brothers’ Railroad Circus and Stout’s Pal Pierre at the Barnum and Baily Circus. Eskimo puppies were sold after the circus show.

It was then that the breed became one of America’s favorite breeds and they quickly became house pets. Following World War II, Japan exported the Japanese Spitz into America and it was crossed with the Eskimo also. The American Eskimo Dog breed was not recognized by AKC until 1985. Still in 1958 there was no official breed club in the States but there were growing numbers of the dogs. It was not until 1970 did the National American Eskimo Dog Association (NAEDA) come into being. They collected the pedigrees of the first 1750 dogs to be AKC registered.

Since the American Eskimo Dog is not recognized internationally, those wishing to participate in international competition such as England’s prestigious Cruft’s Dog Show must register their dogs a German Spitz. Despite this the American Eskimo and German Spitz remain two very different breeds.

japanese spitzSpitz dogs include quite a few dog breeds and these dogs all have similar characteristics – pointed, erect ears, slanted type eyes with thick fur.

The Japanese Spitz was developed by Japanese breeders at the time of the 1920s, and bringing in quite a number of dog breeds to do so. The breeders started with the white German Spitz dogs but later other white Spitz breeds were imported and crossed into this developing breed.

The final standard for the breed after World War 11 was accepted by the Japan Kennel Club. The dog became recognized by other kennel clubs of the world.

Description

american eskimo dog puppy - descriptionThis small to medium dog is beautiful and resembles a miniature Samoyed. There are three sizes of American Eskimothe standard, miniature, and the toy. The Eskimo’s head is wedge shaped with tall, triangular, erect ears. It has a heavily plumed tail with a sharp curl over the back. The Eskimo can burst into bold action due to their good legs and feet.

The coat is a double one with a harsh outer coat and plush inner one. The coat is always white or white with cream or biscuit markings, and visible skin in gray or pink. The American Eskimo’s ruff or mane is very heavy, and the nose, eyelids, pads and gums are black. They have dark eyes and blue are not allowed.

japanese spitz puppy - descriptionThe Japanese Spitz is a small to medium sized dog, being somewhat larger than the Pomeranian. The dog stands at 25 – 38cm, both male and female and weighs anything between 5 to 10kg.

The double coat of the dog is thick and white and the puppies look like large snowball.s He has a pointed muzzle with erect ears and a tail that curls up over the back.

Temperament:

The pure-bred Japanese Spitz, just like other Spitz dogs are smart, inquisitive dogs who show loyalty to their owners, getting on well with children in the home and making a good family pet.

They can be quite stubborn, so training and socialization becomes important if you want him to be obedient. Training is easy as he is an intelligent, bright little dog.

They’re able to adapt to life in the city or in the country, but if you live in the city, you will need to meet his exercise needs.

He can tolerate cold weather quite well but as a companion dog, he prefers being indoors with his human family.

Even though they are small dogs, they are protective and make good watchdogs. They were bred to be companion dogs and they take this role seriously, being loyal, entertaining, fun, friendly and loving with their human family.

It is why they are becoming such a popular breed as they have an amicable nature, getting on well with other pets as well as children.

Characteristics

american eskimo dog dog - characteristicsThe Eskimo is affectionate, playful and love children of all ages. They are intelligent and want to please you. They can be trained easily and are champions of the obedience trial. They are fun and confident. At the same time, they need a confident pack leader. He is prone to Little Dog Syndrome where the dog thinks they oversee the home and display all sorts of behaviors. Under these circumstances the American Eskimo can become obsessive, aggressive, and engaging in obsessive resource guarding and barking.

japanese spitz dog - characteristicsYour Japanese Spitz is going to make you a superb companion and you want to ensure that you are well prepared for him when he arrives. He is feisty, charming, social, bright, alert, active, loyal and loving and you want to be sure that he has everything laid on as a 4-legged family member.

He isn't a high maintenance dog, he isn't demanding and if you love and care for him, you'll find that he fills a vacancy in your life that you'll never want to be without again.

Health Problems

american eskimo dog puppies - health problemsThe American Eskimo Dog is prone to hip dysplasia. Their eyes and tear ducts are potential issues with progressive retinal atrophy. They are allergic to fleas and have a tendency to be overweight.

We deal with PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) in greater detain in a following section but it is not as destructive as it used to be. It is much more treatable now.

There are potentially some dental issues that some American Eskimo Dogs are prone to.

japanese spitz puppies - health problemsLife expectancy for the Japanese Spitz is about 10–16 years. They are a healthy breed with few genetic problems. Nothing is set in stone though, and your healthy dog can fall prey to some of the many common dog illnesses there are.

They're so sweet, you're tempted to feed him treats all the time, but obesity is a common Japanese Spitz health issue and obesity can lead to many problems with the heart, kidney, diabetes and even joint pain.

Also, eye problems such as ingrown eyelashes and a lower eyelid that rolls inward are problems that are known to trouble these Spitz type dogs. It leads to terrible irritation and damage to the eye. It's definitely time to see the vet to avoid infections and injury.

Caring The Pet

Feeding

american eskimo dog dogs - caringYour American Eskimo Dog needs a high quality food so they will not get overweight. Make sure you know how much is appropriate for your particular dog and her specific age. The puppies should be fed twice a day but adults only once.

Health issues

As previously mentioned the American Eskimo Dog is prone to eye issue such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy or (PRA) – this disease is inherited and used to cause blindness as the rods in the retina died. New medical discoveries mean this is no longer a hopeless disease. Their eyes are also susceptible to other issues so make sure you check them and the tear ducts regularly.

Like so many other breeds the American Eskimo is also susceptible to hip dysplasia and a moving patella in the knee. For this reason watch their weight. They can also be very allergic.

Exercise and games

This small dog has more energy than his size can handle. He needs a lot of exercise and a place to run. If he will become hyperactive and destructive. They are prone to disturbing behaviors such as spinning (spinning in circles) when they don’t get enough exercise. The American Eskimo Dog is smart and agile, Play games like catch or agility. They are also great at herding, competitive obedience or detection.

Exercise:

japanese spitz dogs - caringThe Japanese Spitz is an active dog and he will require at least one walk a day to keep him happy. He is full of beans and wants to go with you on all your outings.

Diet:

The diet of your Japanese Spitz is basic to his good health. If you feed him low quality foods deplete of vitamins and minerals, you'll end up with a sick dog who is always at the vet. Puppies need 4 small meals a day while an adult dog can have 1 or 2 meals a day.

He can benefit from the top quality commercially manufactured foods and sometimes you can add in some cooked chicken, rice and vegetables into his dry kibble. Add in a little bit of raw meat too from time to time and ensure that he can always reach his bowl of fresh, cool water.

Grooming:

The beautiful white fur of your Japanese Spitz will need to be brushed at least twice a week to keep it free from loose hair and to keep the fur bright and vibrant.

Check his nails and avoid them getting too long as they can hook on things and cause injury. Check his ears inside and out, keeping them clean and free of debris. Very importantly, keep his teeth clean as dental disease can play havoc with a dog's health.

Comparison with other breeds

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  6. Japanese Spitz vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
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  8. Japanese Spitz vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Japanese Spitz vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Japanese Spitz vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Japanese Spitz vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
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  18. Japanese Spitz vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Japanese Spitz vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
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  23. Japanese Spitz vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
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  25. Japanese Spitz vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. American Eskimo Dog vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. American Eskimo Dog vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. American Eskimo Dog vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. American Eskimo Dog vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. American Eskimo Dog vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. American Eskimo Dog vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. American Eskimo Dog vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. American Eskimo Dog vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. American Eskimo Dog vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. American Eskimo Dog vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. American Eskimo Dog vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. American Eskimo Dog vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. American Eskimo Dog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. American Eskimo Dog vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. American Eskimo Dog vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. American Eskimo Dog vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. American Eskimo Dog vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. American Eskimo Dog vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. American Eskimo Dog vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. American Eskimo Dog vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. American Eskimo Dog vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. American Eskimo Dog vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. American Eskimo Dog vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. American Eskimo Dog vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. American Eskimo Dog vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison