Are German Spitz rare?

The appearance of the German Spitz often conjures images of fluffy, fox-like companions, easily recognizable by their thick double coat and plumed tail carried over the back. ^[1]^[3] When discussing whether this breed is rare, the answer isn't a simple yes or no; it requires looking closely at definitions and geography, especially because the smallest variety of the German Spitz is perhaps one of the most famous small breeds worldwide: the Pomeranian. ^[5]

# Identity Complex

The German Spitz is not a single breed in the way many people understand it; rather, it is a family of dogs, traditionally classified by size, originating in Germany. ^[5] These distinct size varieties share a common ancestry and look, but their official recognition status varies widely depending on the country or kennel club governing them. ^[2]^[5]

The recognized variations typically include:

Wolfspitz/Keeshond: The largest type. ^[5]
Grosser Spitz (Large): A substantial, medium-sized dog. ^[5]
Mittel Spitz (Medium): A popular size in some European countries. ^[5]
Klein Spitz (Small): A smaller companion dog. ^[5]
Zwerg Spitz (Toy/Pomeranian): The smallest version, globally famous. ^[5]

In Germany and under the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) umbrella, these size variations are often recognized as separate breeds or distinct varieties within the German Spitz classification. ^[5] However, many major registries outside of Europe treat them differently. For instance, the American Kennel Club (AKC) currently recognizes only the Pomeranian, listing it as a distinct breed, but does not register the larger Grosser, Mittel, or Klein varieties under the German Spitz name. ^[2] This distinction is central to understanding their perceived rarity. If you are in the United States and looking for a Mittel Spitz, you will find far fewer registered breeders and dogs available than if you search for a Pomeranian. ^[2]

# Popularity Status

The rarity of the German Spitz depends entirely on which size standard you are observing and where you are looking for them. ^[5]

The Pomeranian (Zwerg Spitz) is certainly not rare. ^[5] They consistently rank high in popularity charts globally, beloved for their portability and big personality packed into a tiny frame. ^[6] Their immense popularity can sometimes obscure the existence of their larger relatives. ^[6]

Conversely, the Grosser, Mittel, and Klein Spitz varieties are significantly rarer in regions that primarily focus on the Pomeranian standard, such as the United States. ^[2] While they are cherished and maintained by dedicated enthusiasts, breeders focusing on the larger types are fewer, leading to lower availability and potentially higher waiting lists compared to the ubiquitous Pom. ^[5] In their native Germany, these larger Spitzes maintain a much higher profile and are more common finds. ^[5]

This difference in recognition leads to an interesting phenomenon: a prospective owner in the US might believe the entire German Spitz breed group is rare because only the Pomeranian is widely available, when in fact, the larger, purebred cousins are simply not recognized by the major local registry system. ^[2] This suggests that true rarity isn't about the genetic line existing, but about the administrative classification and market visibility in a specific locale. ^[5]

What is the behavior of a German Spitz?

# Temperament Profile

Regardless of size, the core temperament of the German Spitz line tends to share desirable traits: they are generally intelligent, lively, and fiercely loyal companions. ^[1]^[3]^[8] They thrive on interaction with their families and are known for being alert watchdogs, often possessing a readiness to sound the alarm at perceived intruders. ^[1]^[8] Their devotion makes them excellent family pets, provided their need for attention is met. ^[8]

A common trait across the types, though perhaps most pronounced in the smaller ones, is a bold, sometimes bossy nature. ^[8] They are not shy dogs and can be quite opinionated about how things should run in their household. ^[8] Potential owners should anticipate a dog that is clever and eager to please but also requires firm, consistent training from an early age to manage that inherent confidence. ^[1]^[3] One owner noted a concerning rate of growth in their young puppy, highlighting that even within the same "type," size development can sometimes surprise an owner used only to the tiny Pomeranian standard. ^[6]

# Care Needs

Caring for a German Spitz revolves heavily around managing that luxurious coat and ensuring they receive enough mental stimulation to keep their sharp minds occupied. ^[1]^[9]

# Grooming Requirements

The hallmark double coat requires diligent maintenance to prevent matting and keep the dog comfortable. ^[1]^[3] They have a soft, dense undercoat and a longer, harsh outer coat. ^[1] They will shed throughout the year, with heavier seasonal "blows" of the undercoat. ^[1]^[9]

Brushing Frequency: Daily or at least three to four times per week is generally recommended, especially during shedding seasons. ^[1]
Technique: It is important to brush down to the skin to separate the undercoat hairs. Tools like a slicker brush followed by a metal greyhound comb are effective for working through dense areas, especially around the neck ruff and hindquarters. ^[1]^[3]
Bathing: While they need regular bathing to keep the coat clean, excessive washing can strip natural oils. Owners need to ensure the dog is completely dry after bathing to prevent skin issues, given the density of the fur. ^[1]

# Exercise and Activity

While the larger Mittel and Grosser varieties require more robust exercise than a tiny Pomeranian, even the smaller Spitzes are surprisingly active and energetic. ^[3]^[9] They are not suited to a purely sedentary lifestyle. A good daily walk or active playtime session is usually sufficient to keep them content. ^[3] Due to their intelligence, training sessions and puzzle toys are excellent ways to burn mental energy, which is just as important as physical exertion for this bright breed. ^[8]

Are German Spitz cuddly?

# Navigating Breed Availability

For the enthusiast specifically interested in the Mittel or Grosser size—the ones truly considered rare in many international markets—acquiring one requires a different approach than simply visiting a local breeder who advertises Pomeranians. ^[2]^[5]

If someone is determined to bring home a Mittel Spitz, for instance, they are generally looking for a dog recognized by the FCI or a national club that upholds the various size standards. ^[5] It’s vital for a potential owner to inquire specifically about the lineage and size class the breeder adheres to, rather than assuming size conformity based on a general breed name. ^[6] A responsible breeder focusing on the larger variations will have documentation reflecting their dedication to those specific size standards, which is a key differentiator from Pomeranian-focused operations. ^[2]

When seeking out these less common sizes, one might find that the demand is concentrated among established breed fanciers, meaning that securing a puppy might involve longer waits and potentially traveling internationally, depending on local breeding stock. ^[5] This inherent scarcity in certain regions elevates the German Spitz (Mittel/Grosser) from merely an uncommon dog to a highly sought-after specialty breed for those who prefer a larger, yet still distinctly Spitz-type companion. ^[5] A commitment to finding a quality breeder who is actively preserving these standards, often through international connections, is key to experiencing this specific branch of the family. ^[2]