There may be anywhere between 50 and 70 varieties, from big to small sizes, being bred for hard work or just companionship
Any canine species mirroring fox-like or wolf-like properties with pointy ears, almond-shaped eyes, thick & dense fur, curled tails, and loosely sharing common ancestry and traits, can be classified as a spitz, which actually is not a dog breed. Now being developed all over the world, they originally hail from the Arctic regions. They may look deceptively affable but it requires a lot of physical and mental activity to keep them engaged. The classification criteria being ambiguous, their may be anywhere between 50 and 70 varieties, from big to small sizes, being bred for hard work or just companionship. Here are some recognisable as well as rare ones.
Keeshound
Easily identifiable by their unique 'spectacle' facial markings, these medium-sized Dutch pups bred as guard dogs and companions are easy-going, cordial, and kind. Their thick coats with a thick frill of fur that covers the shoulders and chest — similar to a Pomeranian, come in gray, black, cream, or as a combination of these. Reaching 17-18 inches they can weigh 35-45 pounds.
Pomeranian
Never weighing more than 7 pounds, or going beyond 7 inches in height, and not bearing too many lupine features, this toy doggos do sport the characteristic pointed ears, thick coat, long snout and fluffy curly tails. Intelligent, adventurous, and frisky, they come with huge personalities.
Caanan
Named after the desert regions where they were used for herding and guarding for thousands of years, this national dog of Israel, is energetic flexible, and confident.
Lithe in their frame with a strong neck; white, black, brown, red, tan, or a mix of these colors can be found on their short, dense fur. Used even as WWII service dogs, they require proper exercise and training. They grow up to 19-24 inches and weigh up to 35-55 pounds.
American Eskimo
Absolutely nothing to do with actual 'Eskimos', these all white-dogs were bred in Germany descending from the German spitz. They derived their current nomenclature after the 1800s when they were imported to America and quickly gained popularity owing to their pleasant looks, cleverness, and complaisant attitude. These adventurous and affectionate puppies, who can also be seen in 'biscuit cream', come in standard miniature and toy sizes.
Shiba Inu
Independent and strong-willed, these Japanese hunting spitzs can still be very people-friendly. Their royalty, confidence and courageousness have now made them the most popular dog there. Although small, they have a strong build with a vulpine resemblance. Standing at 23-17 inches and weighing 17-23 pounds, their thick, dense coat can be red, black, or tan with white markings.
