Learn More About Wolfspitz
Discover Wolfspitz's history, temperament, and key traits – essential knowledge for future owners and breed enthusiasts.
Summary
The Wolfsspitz is the largest variant of the German Spitz breed and is also known as the Keeshond or German Wolfsspitz. With its thick, double coat, bushy tail carried proudly across its back, and alert expression, it looks a bit like a small wolf, which explains its name. The FCI lists him in group 5: “Top and dogs of the original type”, Section 4: “European top”. The Wolfsspitz is a well-proportioned dog, with a strong, square shape that makes it appear both robust and agile. His eyes are almond-shaped and dark, his ears are small, thick and set high, giving his overall appearance an alert and intelligent expression.
Height | 44 - 55 cm (Female), 44 - 55 cm (Male) |
Weight | 18 - 25 kg (Female), 18 - 26 kg (Male) |
Life Expectancy | 12 - 14 years |
Character | Alert, loyal, friendly |
Coat | Dense, straight, stands out (undercoat) |
Coat Color | Gray with a hint of black |
Price | 1500 - 2500 € € |
History
The Wolfsspitz can look back on a long history. It is believed that the Spitz are generally one of the oldest dog breeds in Europe and that they existed several thousand years ago. The Wolfsspitz in particular is said to have been known in the Middle Ages and was widespread throughout Europe over the centuries. In the 19th century it was defined and bred as a breed, particularly in England and Germany. The first breed standard was established in Germany in 1880. At that time the dogs were mainly used as guard dogs.
The Wolfspitz was bred as a farm guard dog and companion dog, valued for its alertness and friendly nature.
Germany
1700
Character
The Wolfsspitz is a dog with a very distinctive character. He is loyal and affectionate towards his family, but rather reserved and watchful towards strangers. His vigilance makes him an excellent guard dog, reliably protecting his territory and his family. But despite its alertness and formidable appearance, the Wolfsspitz has a surprisingly gentle and friendly core. He is a very people-oriented dog who loves the company of his people and enjoys being around them. He is also playful and enjoys shared activities and games. A Wolfspitz can easily learn to stay alone, provided it has been properly prepared as a puppy and is sufficiently exercised. A Wolf Spitz usually shows little hunting behavior and is more focused on its people and home. However, he is fully capable of defending himself or protecting his family if necessary. In terms of temperament, the Wolfsspitz can be described as calm and balanced. He is generally not hyperactive, but he still needs regular exercise and mental work to be happy. Walks, brain games, and occasional fetch can be good ways to do this. Due to its dual nature as a guardian and family dog, it is important to socialize the Wolfspitz from an early age and to teach it that not every stranger is a threat. If you teach him as a puppy to face different situations and people in a relaxed manner, you will have a loyal, loving and reliable companion at your side who is not only a guardian but also a member of the family.
Trainability | |
Alertness | |
Openness to Strangers | |
Hunting or Herding Drive |
In the past, the Wolfspitz was very popular as a guard dog on houseboats in Germany, as it loudly reported any intruders!
Fun Fact!
What to Expect
Wolfspitzes are docile but also independent dogs. They are often territorial and good guardians. They can also be motivated to hunt. Consistent parenting requires good timing and a good sense for choosing motivation.
Care
Due to its size and guarding instinct, the Wolfspitz is not necessarily suitable as a typical city dog, but can also be kept in the city with enough exercise and activity. He is a family-friendly dog who gets along well with children. He also generally gets along well with cats and other pets, especially if he is socialized early.
Family-Friendly | |
Good with Young Children | |
Good with Other Dogs | |
Suitable as a City Dog |
Owning a dog is not only a privilege but also a responsibility. If you want to bring a dog into your life, you need to be aware of the commitment that dog ownership entails.!
Training & Education
The Wolfspitz is intelligent, but sometimes a bit independent. Consistency and loving leadership are important here. He needs mental and physical activity, but you shouldn't overdo it either. Guard games, agility or obedience are great options. It is important to train frustration tolerance and impulse control as the Wolf Spitz can be a bit stubborn at times.
Nutrition & Grooming
Due to its size and guarding instinct, the Wolfspitz is not necessarily suitable as a typical city dog, but can also be kept in the city with enough exercise and activity. He is a family-friendly dog who gets along well with children. He also generally gets along well with cats and other pets, especially if he is socialized early.
Grooming Effort | |
Exercise Needs | |
Shedding | |
Trainability |
This information is currently being peer-reviewed. If you discover an error, please send an email to info@honestdog.de.!
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