The Indian Spitz, a delightful member of the utility group, has a captivating history that traces back to the 19th century.
Introduced by the British during their occupation, this breed evolved from the German Spitz, adapting to the scorching Indian summers while retaining the intelligence of its European ancestor.
Resembling a charming blend of a Samoyed and Pomeranian, the Indian Spitz quickly became a favourite due to the restrictive import rules in India during the 1980s and 1990s.
10 Quirky Facts about the Indian Spitz
Expressive Ears: The pointy fox-like ears of the Indian Spitz make them exceptionally expressive. With thick fur both inside and out, these ears demand extra care during grooming.
Fluffy Curled Tail: Sporting a fluffy curled tail over their back, the Indian Spitz exudes charm. Their slightly shorter legs give the illusion of a larger head, adding to their endearing appearance.
Adaptability Personified: Among Indian breeds, the Indian Spitz stands out as one of the most adaptable. Comfortable in both small apartments and spacious houses, they’re easily housebroken and trained.
Size Matters: The breed comes in multiple size, including the Smaller Indian Spitz (5–7 kg, 22–25 cm) and the Bigger Indian Spitz (12–20 kg, 35–45 cm), offering choices to potential pet parents.
Grooming Grace: While maintaining cleanliness is in their nature, regular brushing is essential to keep their long coats in top condition. Bathing schedules should be cautious, ensuring their fur doesn’t dry out.
Shedding Woes: Shedding is a challenge for the Indian Spitz, given their double-layered coat. Proper grooming involves a double-row brush to reach the undercoat, and shaving is discouraged to avoid patchy hair growth.
Health Considerations: With a propensity for corneal ulceration, the Indian Spitz demands vigilant eye care to ensure their well-being.
Energetic Playmates: Loyal, energetic, and playful, the Indian Spitz makes for an ideal family companion. Their active and intelligent nature allows them to understand and respond to human emotions.
Guardians at Heart: Originating from hunt dogs, Indian Spitzes possess excellent guarding skills, making them adept at indoor house protection. Their alert nature and high-pitched barking contribute to their role as vigilant watch dogs.
Sociable Warriors: Despite their small size, Indian Spitzes get along famously with kids and other dogs. Their bold disposition may surprise, as they won’t hesitate to stand up for themselves, showcasing their big-dog attitude.
A Bollywood Connection: Tuffy from ‘Hum Aapke Hain Koun’
In the realm of popular culture, the Indian Spitz has left an indelible mark.
Redo, the talented canine actor who portrayed ‘Tuffy’ in the 1994 romantic comedy ‘Hum Aapke Hain Koun,’ was an Indian Spitz.
Redo’s performance added charm to the film, and his legacy lives on in the hearts of all dog lovers.
The Seven Unique Traits and Care Considerations
Energy Level:
The Indian Spitz, being an active breed, may display excessive energy, requiring an outlet to prevent behavioural issues. Regular exercise and engaging activities are essential to maintain their well-being.
Playfulness:
Their playful nature might lead to restlessness without proper outlets. Interactive toys and scheduled playtime can help channel their energy positively, ensuring a harmonious living environment.
Trainability:
While highly intelligent, the Indian Spitz can exhibit a stubborn streak. Patience and positive reinforcement are key to effective training, fostering a strong bond between the pet and owner.
Behaviour Towards Other Dogs:
Due to their bold demeanour, Indian Spitzes may engage assertively with larger dogs. Early socialisation and positive experiences can mitigate any potential issues, fostering positive interactions.
Ideal Diet:
Maintaining a well-balanced diet is crucial for the Indian Spitz. Owners should be cautious about overfeeding, as their adaptable nature can lead to weight concerns. Consultation with a veterinarian ensures an optimal dietary plan.
Exercise Needs:
Despite their adaptability, Indian Spitzes require moderate exercise to stay healthy and happy. Regular walks and play sessions cater to their energetic disposition, preventing boredom-related behaviours.
Common Health Problems:
Corneal ulceration is a common health concern. Regular eye check-ups and preventive measures, such as protecting their eyes during outdoor activities, can safeguard their ocular health.
The Indian Spitz: A Perfect Companion for the Right Home
In conclusion, the Indian Spitz emerges as an ideal companion for families willing to embrace their energetic and playful spirit.
Their loyalty, intelligence, and adaptability make them suitable for both small apartments and spacious homes. Potential adopters who appreciate an active, sociable, and alert furry friend will find the Indian Spitz to be a delightful addition to their households.
We highly recommend considering adoption from NGOs and rescue organisations if you have considerable experience in dog training and care.