The German Spitz (Mittel), also known as the Medium German Spitz, is a charming, lively, and elegant dog breed that offers both beauty and personality in a compact package. Known for its distinctive fluffy coat, pointed ears, and lively demeanor, the Mittel is an excellent companion for families and individuals alike. This medium-sized spitz breed has a long history in Germany and continues to captivate dog lovers worldwide with its affectionate nature and versatility.
History and Origins
The German Spitz (Mittel) is a member of the Spitz family, a group of ancient breeds characterized by their thick double coats, curled tails, and pointed ears. It is believed that the German Spitz dates back more than 2,000 years, originating in northern Europe. The breed was originally used for various tasks such as herding, guarding, and even pulling sleds in colder climates.
In Germany, the German Spitz came in different sizes, with the Mittel (Medium) being the middle-sized variant, positioned between the smaller Klein (Miniature) and the larger Gross (Large) varieties. These dogs were often employed as guardians of homes, farm animals, and property, thanks to their alert and protective instincts.
Over time, the Mittel gained popularity as a companion dog, and it was officially recognized by the Fédération Cynalogique Internationale (FCI) and the American Kennel Club (AKC) as part of the Spitz-type dogs category. Today, the German Spitz (Mittel) is highly regarded for its charming personality and its suitability for a variety of living environments.
Appearance
The German Spitz (Mittel) is a medium-sized dog, typically standing between 12 and 15 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing 18 to 29 pounds. This breed is well-proportioned, with a compact body, a slightly rounded back, and a proud, erect posture that exudes confidence and elegance.
The most striking feature of the Mittel is its fluffy double coat, which is thick, dense, and weather-resistant. The outer coat is straight and long, while the undercoat is soft and woolly. The fur forms a distinctive ruff around the neck, adding to the dog’s regal appearance. Its coat comes in a wide range of colors, including white, black, brown, orange, cream, and various shades of sable.
Another prominent characteristic of the German Spitz (Mittel) is its pointed ears and curled tail, both of which give the dog a keen, alert expression. The eyes are typically dark and almond-shaped, adding to the dog’s bright, intelligent gaze. The breed’s face is fox-like, with a sharp, alert expression that reflects its lively nature.
Temperament and Personality
The German Spitz (Mittel) is known for its intelligent, lively, and affectionate personality. These dogs are social and love to be part of the family, making them excellent companions for individuals, couples, and families with children. They are generally good-natured, though they may be reserved or cautious around strangers, which is a reflection of their strong protective instincts.
Despite their somewhat reserved nature toward unfamiliar people, the Mittel is not aggressive. In fact, these dogs tend to be very loyal and loving with their families. They form close bonds with their owners and are known to be playful, often enjoying games and interactive activities. The breed also tends to get along well with other pets, especially when properly socialized from an early age.
German Spitz (Mittel) dogs are highly intelligent and can excel in various training tasks, including obedience, agility, and scent work. They are eager to please but may also display an independent streak, which can make training a bit of a challenge at times. As a result, owners should approach training with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement methods.
One important trait to note is that the German Spitz (Mittel) can be a vocal breed. They are known for their loud, distinctive barks, which were originally used to alert their owners to the presence of intruders. While their barking can be a valuable asset in some situations, it may require management in quieter neighborhoods or apartment settings.
Exercise and Activity Needs
The German Spitz (Mittel) is a high-energy breed that requires regular physical and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. While they don’t require as much exercise as some other active breeds, daily walks and playtime are essential to keep them engaged. A few brisk walks each day, along with opportunities for off-leash play in a safe, enclosed area, will help burn off their excess energy.
In addition to physical exercise, the German Spitz (Mittel) thrives when given mental challenges. They enjoy activities such as obedience training, puzzle games, and interactive toys. Engaging their minds helps prevent boredom and ensures they remain well-behaved and happy.
Because the breed is highly alert and instinctively protective, German Spitz (Mittel) dogs also enjoy watching over their territory. Providing them with a secure environment where they can observe their surroundings will satisfy their natural curiosity and give them a sense of purpose.
Grooming and Maintenance
The double coat of the German Spitz (Mittel) requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition. Brushing several times a week is essential to prevent matting, especially in areas like the ruff around the neck, the tail, and the behind the ears. During shedding seasons (spring and fall), more frequent brushing may be necessary to manage the increased shedding.
Despite their long fur, the German Spitz (Mittel) is generally a low-shedding breed, but regular grooming will help control loose hair. The breed’s ears should be cleaned regularly to prevent wax buildup and infection, and their nails should be trimmed to keep them comfortable.
Health and Lifespan
German Spitz (Mittel) dogs are generally healthy and live, on average, between 12 and 16 years. However, like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions, including:
- Hip dysplasia
- Patellar luxation
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Dental issues (especially in smaller dogs)
Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and appropriate exercise can help keep your German Spitz (Mittel) healthy and happy throughout its life.
Conclusion
The German Spitz (Mittel) is a spirited, affectionate, and intelligent companion that makes a wonderful addition to an active family or individual. With their beautiful appearance, charming personality, and protective nature, they have all the qualities of an ideal companion. While they do require regular grooming and ample exercise, the rewards of having a German Spitz (Mittel) are more than worth the effort.
Whether you’re looking for a loyal guardian or a playful, energetic companion, the German Spitz (Mittel) is sure to steal your heart and become a cherished member of the family.
