German Spitz
The German Spitz is described by the AKC as active, devoted, smart, a member of the Miscellaneous Class, originally from Germany.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | Small 8 - 11, Med 12-15, Large 16 -20 [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | Small 10-11 lbs, Med 15 - 25 lbs, Large 30- 50 lbs [1] |
| Life expectancy | 13–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Active / Devoted / Smart [1] |
| AKC group | Miscellaneous Class [1] |
| Origin | Germany [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 212 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
A moderate amount of regular exercise will suffice for the German Spitz. Though longer activity is unnecessary, he will happily keep up on an extended walk. Providing a secure area for exercise is highly recommended as he is a very curious dog and can wiggle through the smallest of gaps in search for other adventures. [1]
Grooming
The German Spitz has a profuse double coat, which sheds twice per year. During those times, the entire undercoat is shed in the span of about 2 to 3 weeks. Daily brushing will be required to remove his old coat and his hair will inevitably be all over your clothes, furniture and floor. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Some cases of PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), RD (Retinal Dysplasia), and Patella Luxation have been seen in the German Spitz, but a majority of this breed are generally healthy. Puppies should be bought only from responsible breeders who eye test their breeding stock. Working with a reputable breeder, prospective owners can gain the education they need to learn about specific health concerns within the breed. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Patella Evaluation, Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation, Multiplex DNA testing. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- It ranked No. 212 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list. [2]
- The AKC lists Germany as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 5 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Patella Evaluation, Hip Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 4/5)
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
- ✅ Multi-dog homes (AKC good-with-other-dogs 4/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Close neighbors or thin walls: AKC rates barking 4/5
- ⚠️ Think twice: Anyone who hates vacuuming: AKC rates shedding 4/5
Common questions
How long do German Spitzs live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 13-15 years.
How big does a German Spitz get?
AKC breed information lists height Small 8 - 11, Med 12-15, Large 16 -20 and weight Small 10-11 lbs, Med 15 - 25 lbs, Large 30- 50 lbs.
How much are vet bills for a German Spitz?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the German Spitz, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.