The term spitz dog breeds is somewhat inaccurate, given they’re not actually one breed but rather a group of breeds that share similar (and rather adorable!) traits. Known for their floofy tails and coats, thick furry ears, and appearances that can make them look like either a wolf or a fox, these dogs were bred to help humans.
From hunting and herding to guarding and pulling sleds, breeds like the Siberian Husky and Norwegian Elkhound were built to work. Although many of these active and energetic dogs are used to putting in long hours, their roles have evolved over the centuries to also include that of treasured family companions.
Most do best with outdoorsy pet parents who have the time and energy to give them the mental and physical stimulation they need to thrive, although some will be happier with shorter bursts of activity as long as they get plenty of play time at home. Whether you opt for the plucky Pomeranian or the affectionate Alaskan Malamute, these spitz dog breeds are sure to capture your heart.
What is a Spitz dog?
The word “spitz” means “pointed” in German and is used to describe breeds that have pointed ears, a curled tail and a wolf-like appearance.
There are more than 50 distinct spitz breeds and most originated in cold climates, which is why they have long, thick coats that protect them from the harsh elements.
The spitz dog is not a breed of dog in itself but rather a type of dog with a particular set of traits.
Popular spitz dog breeds
1. Akita
This ancient Japanese breed is a strong and muscular dog that’s famous for its courage and loyalty. Akitas were originally hunting dogs bred to hunt game, thanks to their incredible work ethic, but their quiet nature and devotion to their humans have seen them become popular companion animals.
If you’re thinking of getting an Akita, it’s worth noting that these dogs are very wary of strangers, incredibly protective of those they love, and tend to have a strong intolerance of other animals.
Early socialization and training are a must for this breed, but with a firm hand, they will make for a great addition to your family.
2. Alaskan Malamute
Playful yet gentle, affectionate yet dignified, the Alaskan Malamute is a popular pet, and for good reason. These delightful dogs have a real sparkle in their eyes and love nothing more than curling up with their humans at the end of a long, hard day.
Powerful and hardworking, the Alaskan Malamute, or Mal as they’re often referred to, is one of the oldest sled breeds in the world. While they make wonderful companion animals, they have an independent streak that can cause problems if they’re not taught early on that it is you, and not them, that’s leader of the pack.
3. Chow chow
Dating back to around 200BC, it’s thought that the chow chow might be one of the first spitz-type dogs to ever exist. Hailing from China, the chow chow is dignified, serious, and aloof, but that doesn’t mean they can’t make good companions.
While they may have a slightly standoffish nature, this tends to only apply with strangers, whom they remain guarded around, but with their people, it’s a whole other story. Known to be eternally loyal to their humans, the chow chow has a calming presence and a serene nature. They’re also fastidious about cleaning themselves and are easy to housebreak.
4. Finnish Lapphund
Alert and agile, the Finnish Lapphund is a hardy little dog that has traditionally been used as a reindeer herder in the Arctic Circle – thank goodness their coats are weatherproof! They are extremely sociable, courageous, and calm, and their naturally submissive natures make them the perfect family pet.
If you’re wanting to welcome a Lappy into your home, it’s crucial you have plenty of time to spend with them. This dog needs constant companionship and thrives around people, so this is not a pup that can be left on its own
5. Icelandic Sheepdog
They may be Iceland’s only native dog, but to be honest, given their wonderful personalities, this dog is the only representative a country could ever need. Charmingly friendly, endlessly happy, and utterly devoted to their humans, the Icelandic Sheepdog is a dog lover's dream.
With a natural love of the outdoors, these dogs make great exercise partners, and because they’re so intelligent and eager to please, you’ll have no trouble training them. They also love to play and get on very well with children of all ages.
6. Keeshond
Famous for the distinctive ‘spectacles’ it sports across its face, the Keeshond is a medium-sized spitz that has a square and sturdy body shape and a dense coat that made it well suited to its former life living on canal barges across the Netherlands.
If you’re looking for a friendly, lively and outgoing dog, the Keeshond ticks all those boxes, plus they’re hardy and adaptable, making them suitable to live in just about any situation. They’re great with children, other dogs, super affectionate, and highly trainable.
7. Pomeranian
A small dog with a big personality, the perky Pomeranian is one of the world’s most popular dogs thanks to its bold and vivacious personality. It’s also quite the comedian, so you can be sure of plenty of laughs with this little guy by your side.
Fluffy and weighing less than seven pounds, the Pom was a popular companion of many royals and historical figures, including Marie Antoinette and Queen Victoria.
While they love being lap dogs, they’re also highly intelligent and love mastering new tricks and competing in canine sporting events.
8. Samoyed
Definitely one of the most beautiful dogs in the world, the samoyed has plenty to offer outside of its luscious white coat and smiling face. Sammies are smart, hardworking, and mischievous dogs who are highly social and will think nothing of demanding your attention and affection.
They require a lot of exercise and don’t tire easily, so they’re a great choice for active families, and their incredibly loving natures mean they form tight bonds with their people. But they are pack animals, so make sure you teach them early on who’s the top dog – you!
9. Shiba inu
Like the Akita, the shiba inu comes from Japan where this muscular dog was once used as a hunter. But these days, this spirited breed is a popular companion animal thanks to its confident and good natured temperament.
The shiba inu is both active and attentive, making them a joy to housebreak. And while they love their owners, they must never be let off their leash in public areas as they are highly aloof with strangers. They’re also not great with recall, meaning they may not come back to you.
10. Siberian Husky
With captivatingly piercing almond-shaped blue or brown eyes, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more stunning dog than the Siberian Husky.
They may be medium-sized, but they are incredibly graceful and quick-footed, and while powerful, they seem to move effortlessly, an important feature given that they have most commonly been used as long-distance sled dogs.
Energetic and friendly, these dogs are loyal, outgoing, playful, and very mischievous, which can make them a delightful addition to the family. They do have a high prey drive however and they need a lot of physical and mental stimulation, so you’ll need plenty of time on your hands if you want to play pet parent to a Husky.
11. American Eskimo Dog
A breed of companion dog originating in Germany, the American Eskimo Dog (or Eskie as they’re sometimes called) was known as the American Spitz until 1917 when the breed’s name was changed.
Coming in three sizes – toy, miniature or standard – this dog can weigh anywhere from six to 35 pounds, depending on which size you choose. However, whichever one you opt for, you can expect the same character traits with Eskies being affectionate family companions who are wonderful with children.
One of the most trainable breeds, they’re incredibly eager to please but do require lots of physical exercise and mental stimulation to keep them out of mischief. Investing in some of the best dog puzzle toys will help to keep them occupied when you’re too busy to play with them.
12. Finnish Spitz
Bred in Finland to hunt all types of game in dense woods, the Finnish Spitz (also sometimes referred to as Finnies) are known for their keen alertness, flame-colored appearance, and super adorable fox-like features.
They are Finland’s national dog and to this day, they remain a very popular choice of companion for active families. Energetic, affectionate, and loyal, they are vigilant watchdogs and fiercely protective of their humans, although they won’t show aggression unless absolutely necessary.
Slow to mature, they can be both silly and rebellious until they reach around five years of age, but training your dog on your own needn’t be a challenge as long as you adopt patient, persistent, and kind methods – which will work wonders with this sensitive and strong-willed breed.
13. Norwegian Buhund
Closely related to the Icelandic Sheepdog, the Norwegian Buhund is one of the oldest breeds and thought to predate the Vikings. Its original function was as an all-purpose farm dog, used for herding cattle and sheep as well as watching over their owner's house, but these days it’s much more common to find them as beloved family pets.
Naturally gentle and affectionate, they have a cheerful temperament and are happiest when they’re included in all aspects of their people’s lives. Fun-loving, easygoing, and confident, they’re alert without being aggressive, so be prepared for lots of barking!
14. Swedish Vallhund
With a history that dates back more than 1,000 years, the Swedish Vallhund was originally bred to be a drover and herder of cattle, but as with many working spitz breeds, they’ve become treasured family pets over the years.
A friendly and affectionate dog who’s great with children, the Swedish Vallhund has a true zest for life and is endlessly upbeat in nature.
They are a deeply sensitive and empathic breed who are known for picking up on their owner's moods and emotions and when they sense anyone in their family is feeling low, they’ll often launch into a comedy routine to try to lift their spirits.
Because they need a lot of exercise, learning how to keep dog walks fun by adding in games like hide and seek, scentwork, and doggy parkour will make sure things stay interesting and enjoyable for both you and your canine companion.
15. Kai ken
One of six spitz breeds native to Japan, the Kai Ken originated in the Kai province (near Mount Fuji), where the pup serves as a national monument. It is a very rare dog and hard to come by outside of its home country, but advocates are working tirelessly to try to build the breed’s numbers.
Nicknamed the tiger dog thanks to their signature striped, brindled coats, the Kai Ken makes for a loyal and affectionate companion, but their stubborn streak and high energy levels mean they’re not always well suited to novice owners.
This energetic breed tends to do best with those who lead very active lifestyles and have the time and patience to socialize them so that they grow into well-mannered adults.
16. Alaskan Klee Kai
If you’re someone who loves to keep fit and you’re looking for one of the best dogs for runners, look no further than the Alaskan Klee Kai. Possessing both speed and stamina, this small dog breed has bucketloads of energy and will have no problem keeping up with you on the trails.
A mini-Husky with a big heart and lots to say, the Alaskan Klee Kai is a relatively new breed whose name comes from the inuit term for “little dog”.
Their alertness and willingness to sound the alarm whenever they sense trouble make them excellent guard dogs, although you’ll definitely want to steer clear of this breed if you live in an apartment!
17. Norwegian Elkhound
A hardy dog with a squarely-built, short body, the Norwegian Elkhound is the national dog of Norway where it has a history that stretches back thousands of years. Over the course of that time, the Norwegian Elkhound has served as both a hunter and a herder, and it has impressed many with its courage and bravery.
One of the best dog breeds for cold weather, these bold and determined dogs will hunt and track for days at a time, but thanks to their eagerness to please humans and their sensitive and trusting nature, they have evolved to become treasured and devoted family companions.
They thrive on human companionship but are independent and calm enough that they can be left home alone during the work day without any issues, provided they get enough exercise before you go.
18. Karelian Bear Dog
Originating in the Karelia region between Finland and Russia, the Karelian Bear Dog prefers country life as it gives them ample opportunities to run and play.
Confident and enthusiastic silent hunters with a keen sense of smell, Karelian Bears need experienced owners as while they’re not aggressive with people, they can be very territorial if they come across other dogs and are known to attempt to fight them.
Vigilant and fearless, they need extensive training and socialization, but if you’re able to do this and you can provide them with strong leadership, you’ll find this breed will reward you by being fiercely devoted and protective.
19. Swedish Lapphund
Standing around 20 inches tall and weighing approximately 35 pounds, the Swedish Lapphund is a medium-sized dog with typical spitz characteristics. Friendly, energetic, and alert, they typically have solid black coats and bushy tails, which they carry over their backs when they’re on the go.
While they remain a popular choice for herding and make one of the best guard dogs, their playful and loving nature means they fit with ease into family life.
Kind and affectionate, they’re attentive and receptive, which makes them a joy to train, and while they are high-energy like most spitz dogs, they’re also more than capable of relaxing provided they’ve had enough exercise.
20. Norwegian Lundehund
Originating on the Norwegian island of Vaeroy, the Norwegian Lundehund is a small breed created to hunt and retrieve puffins. While they look like any other dog at first glance, the Norwegian Lundehund has several characteristics you won’t find in any other breed – such as six toes on each foot!
They also have ears that can fold completely shut and a more flexible spine than any other dog. It is thought that these adaptations came about to help them navigate the rocky caves and terrain they would have to pass through in order to capture their prey.
Loyal and playful with a balanced disposition, they make good family dogs who can easily keep up on hikes or long walks.
21. Yakutian Laika
The Yakutian Laika is a hardy and versatile working dog that comes from the Yakutia region of Siberia where they have been used for centuries to pull sleds as well as hunt and herd.
Affectionate, good with other dogs, and known to form very deep bonds with children, they’re a gentle and considerate breed that thrives on human interaction.
A highly intelligent dog breed, the Yakutian Laika responds well to training as long as it’s consistent, mentally stimulating, and focused on positive reinforcement.
They have incredible energy and stamina, so they need lots of mental and physical stimulation each day to prevent them from becoming bored and getting into mischief.
22. Thai Bangkaew Dog
An Asian breed of medium size, the Thai Bangkaew Dog is a feisty pup with strong protective instincts. A great guard dog, they’re wary of strangers but very loyal to those they love.
Intelligent and stubborn, the Thai Bangkaew Dog needs an experienced owner who knows how to train them and can provide them with the strong leadership they need to thrive.
Loyal and loving, they’re active dogs who need at least 90 minutes of exercise a day as well as plenty of play time and mental stimulation.
23. Danish Spitz
Originally from Denmark, the Danish Spitz (sometimes referred to as the samoyed spitz or the wolf spitz) is a small yet robust dog with an elegant appearance. This lively breed loves the outdoors and enjoys being part of active families who will give them plenty of exercise and play.
Happy, kind, and friendly with those they love, like many spitz breeds, they have an alert and watchful nature that can make them wary of strangers.
While they thrive on human companionship and delight in the company of children, they're not a particularly demanding dog but do like to be in close proximity to their people.
24. Eurasier
A medium-sized dog with a thick coat, the gorgeous eurasier has a coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black, fawn, and wolf-sable. Striking on the outside and just as lovely on the inside, this breed is known for having a fun-loving, calm, and even-tempered nature and developing strong bonds with their human family.
Easygoing and playful, the eurasier makes a fantastic companion for children, and they like to live in homes where there is someone around all day to keep them company.
While they can be wary of strangers, they're not aggressive, so if you're looking for a guard dog, this isn't the breed for you. However, if you want a deeply affectionate and attentive fur friend, the eurasier is well worth considering.
25. Volpino Italiano
The Volpino Italiano is a dog that offers you the best of all worlds. They love to run, play, and compete in agility events, but once they've tired themselves out, they can think of nothing better than to curl up on their human's lap and have a nice, long snooze.
A sweet, happy-go-lucky breed who packs a whole lot of personality into a small, fully package the, Volpino Italiano is a delightful companion breed who attaches strongly to their owners.
Just be aware that they are alert watchdogs, and they will bark when anyone approaches their territory, so they're not the best choice if you live in an apartment.
26. Western Siberian Laika
A medium-sized, well-built hunting dog that originated in North Ural and West Siberia, the Western Siberian Laika was originally kept as a farm dog, but the breed's versatility caught the eye of hunters in the early 1900s, and they were soon being used to hunt birds and small game.
Loyal, lively, and intelligent, the Western Siberian Laika is known for being assertive and even-tempered. They're inquisitive dogs who love to explore, so they need big backyards and plenty of opportunities to run around and play.
They can also be stubborn and require a lot of training and socialization, so they're not a good fit for inexperienced owners.
27. Shikoku
Shikoku is the smallest of Japan’s major islands and the birthplace of this graceful and stoic breed. The Shikoku has a compact and muscular build, and they come in three colors – black and tan, red, and sesame (a mixture of black and red).
A working dog used to hunt in the mountainous regions of their home country, they're an energetic and enthusiastic breed with keen alertness.
Aloof with strangers but docile with those they love, the Shikoku is known for mouthing and nipping, so they're not a good choice for those with children.
They also have strong predatory instincts and can growl at other dogs and animals, which is why keeping them on a leash when walking them is important.
28. Korean Jindo
If you're looking for a dog that will devote all its love to just one person and remain faithful to them through their life, the Korean Jindo may just be the canine companion for you.
While this breed will be loyal to their whole family, they tend to strongly favor one human over all others, and it's this person who will get their obedience as well as the bulk of their attention and affection.
Dignified, intelligent, and reserved, the Korean Jindo has a strong prey drive around smaller animals and can be wary of strangers. However, early socialization and training recall in dogs when they're young can help to prevent or reduce these behaviors.
29. Greenland Dog
Brought to North America from Siberia more than 1,000 years ago, the Greenland Dog is a strong pup built for endurance and used to pulling sleds over vast distances. If hiking with a dog is something you've always wanted to do, this breed is one of the best dogs for hiking – they'll even carry all your stuff for you!
Stoic pups who soldiers on without complaint, the Greenland Dog is a tireless outdoor-loving family companion who gets along with everyone and never picks a favorite.
If you have other dogs already, this breed will likely form very strong bonds with them and consider themselves part of the pack, but they can be very wary of new dogs and can be territorial without the proper training.
30. German Spitz
One of the cutest dog breeds around, the German Spitz looks a lot like the Pomeranian, but they're two distinct breeds.
An active dog who likes an hour or two of exercise each day, the German Spitz is intelligent and very trainable – which is a good thing as they can be very vocal, something that can be managed if you train them well.
Never happier than when they're learning new tricks and keeping their brains engaged, the German Spitz is not a lap dog and prefers to live in a home with a backyard that they can zoom about in.
Devoted and social, they enjoy mingling with other people and dogs, and while they're typically good with kids, they prefer older children who will respect their boundaries.
31. Japanese Spitz
A small dog with a pure white coat, the Japanese Spitz is thought to have descended from the white German Spitz, arriving in Japan by ship in the 1920s. They're loyal and playful dogs with a genuine affection for children, and they make great, high-energy, fun-loving companions.
Easy to train, the Japanese Spitz is never happier than with their family, and despite all that fluff, their grooming needs are minimal. A daily brush is required during the two shedding seasons each year, but aside from that, a weekly groom is all that's needed to keep them looking their best.
32. Indian Spitz
Introduced by the British during their occupation of India, the Indian Spitz is a charming and adaptable dog that has a cheerful personality and friendly nature. They do well in almost any living environment and get on well with children and other pets.
Alert and obedient, they're great little watchdogs who will be quick to let you know if you have visitors. Unlike some spitz breeds, they don't need extensive exercise to keep them happy – a good play session with some of the best dog toys and a walk around the neighborhood are all that's needed.
Enjoyed looking at these gorgeous dogs? We think you’ll love the teddy bear dog breeds, too!
Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis de Leaver
Recent updates
This feature was last updated on March 31, 2025 by Kathryn Williams.
