Japanese Spitz Puppies for Sale

Recognized by: FCI, KC, UKC

About the Japanese Spitz

The Japanese Spitz is a small, brilliantly white companion dog developed in Japan in the early 20th century, resembling a compact, pointed-eared white cloud with a plumed tail and a foxy, smiling face. Despite its glamorous double coat, it is surprisingly low-odor and easy to keep clean, as dirt tends to fall away from the coat. Lively, affectionate, and devoted, it is an alert watchdog that bonds tightly with its family yet is playful and adaptable enough for apartment life. Bold beyond its size but rarely aggressive, it thrives on companionship, moderate exercise, and gentle, reward-based training, making a cheerful, loyal family friend.

Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.

Typical tendencies

Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.

Exercise needsTypical
Energy levelTypical
TrainabilityHigher than most
Grooming effortTypical
SheddingHigher than most
BarkingTypical
Apartment fitHigher than most
Good with childrenHigher than most
Good with other dogsHigher than most
First-time ownersHigher than most

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Where this breed shines

  • Affectionate, loyal, and adaptable to apartment living
  • Self-cleaning white coat that stays surprisingly odor-free
  • Intelligent, trainable, and good with children and other pets

Things to consider

  • Thick double coat sheds heavily, especially during seasonal blows
  • Can be a vocal watchdog if barking is not managed
  • Prone to separation-related behaviors if left alone too much

History

The Japanese Spitz was developed in Japan between the 1920s and 1940s by crossing white German Spitz and other white spitz breeds imported from around the world. Breeders standardized the type, and it was recognized by the Japan Kennel Club in the late 1940s. It is now popular internationally as a companion; the AKC records it in its Foundation Stock Service.

Temperament

Japanese Spitz are affectionate, cheerful, and loyal, forming close bonds and thriving on family involvement. They are alert and make good watchdogs, sometimes barking at strangers, but are generally friendly and not aggressive. Intelligent and eager to please, they train readily with positive methods.

Questions to ask a Japanese Spitz breeder

  • Have the parents been screened for patellar luxation and eye conditions?
  • How is the litter socialized, and how vocal are the parents?
  • What is the temperament of the parents around children and other pets?
More buyer-safety guidance →

Health considerations to discuss

Patellar luxation. Common in small breeds; ask about knee evaluations.

Runny eyes / tear staining. Some lines are prone to epiphora; ask about eye health.

Progressive retinal atrophy. Ask whether the line has been eye-tested.

Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: American Kennel Club · The Kennel Club (UK) — written by PuppyList editorial

Questions worth asking about any Japanese Spitz litter

  • Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
  • What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
  • How was the litter raised and socialized?
  • What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
  • What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Read the full buyer safety checklist →

Frequently asked questions

How do I buy a Japanese Spitz puppy on PuppyList?

Browse the Japanese Spitz listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.

How can I tell if a Japanese Spitz breeder is trustworthy?

Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.