Japanese Spitz
A small, all-white spitz with a bright smile, the Japanese Spitz is cheerful, affectionate and easy to live with.
Japanese Spitz vs Samoyed
Side by side
| Trait | Japanese Spitz | Samoyed |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Spitz and primitive types | Spitz and primitive types |
| Size | Small | Medium |
| Weight | 5–10 kg | 17–30 kg |
| Height at withers | 25–38 cm | 50–60 cm |
| Life expectancy | 12–16 years | 12–14 years |
| Energy | ||
| With children | ||
| With other dogs | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Heat tolerance | ||
| Apartment | Yes | Not recommended |
Key differences
- Heavier: Samoyed (about 23.5 kg vs 7.5 kg on average)
- Taller: Samoyed (about 55 cm vs 31.5 cm on average)
- Suited to apartments: Japanese Spitz only
Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.
Which one is right for you?
A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.
- Apartment living
- Japanese Spitz is the better fitBased on apartment suitability and energy.
- Family with children
- Samoyed is the better fitBased on behaviour with children.
- First-time owner
- Japanese Spitz is the better fitBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
- Hot climate
- Japanese Spitz is the better fitBased on heat tolerance.
- Active owner
- Samoyed is the better fitBased on energy level.
Meet the two breeds
Samoyed
Famous for its 'smile' and white coat, the Samoyed is gentle, sociable and playful, but copes very poorly with heat.