India, a beautiful country packed to the rafters with rich cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, and fascinating animals, including a plethora of dog breeds. Among these breeds, one canine stands out like a beacon, reflecting the resilience, spirit, and charm that India stands for – The Indian Spitz. If you’re a dog lover keen on acquiring more knowledge concerning relatively less-explored dog breeds, buckle up! As we embark on a journey to unveil some of the most enigmatic traits and facts about the beloved Indian Spitz.
A Glimpse into The History of The Indian Spitz
Let’s embark on a nostalgic journey to the era of the 1980s and the 1990s, when the Indian Spitz was a well-loved member of many households in India. Conjuring up memories of simpler times, the Indian Spitz was a popular sight in both, rural and urban homes. Adopting one was a common affair, but few delved deep into understanding the roots of this breed. This dog breed is believed to be a descendant of the German Spitz, introduced in India by the British.
Understanding the Appearance of the Indian Spitz
The Indian Spitz, often described as a smiling ball of fur, is quite a sight to behold with its adorable appearance seeming to beckon all to step up and cuddle. This breed is widely recognized by its thick double coat, with a softer undercoat complemented by a coarse outer coat of straight hair, much like its German Spitz ancestors.
Size: Small yet Spirited
Do not underestimate these little fur balls based on their size! Even with their rather small stature ranging from 22 to 25cms in height, the Indian Spitz dogs are teeming with spirit and energy. They typically fall into two categories, smaller spitz weighing between 5-7kgs and larger Spitz weighing around 12-20kgs, as per the PetMD.
Color: A Mix of Neutrals
The Indian Spitz is known to dawn colours of the neutral palette, ranging from pure white to a delightful mix of browns. The white Indian Spitz, however, hold a particular fondness among families across India.
Personality Traits of an Indian Spitz
Rightly being referred to as a ‘Desi Pomeranian’ or ‘the common man’s companion’, the Indian Spitz is not just domesticated for its appealing looks, but also for its amiable, loyal and intelligent personality traits. But what specifically makes them such loved pets? Let’s explore.
Their Smarts
Their intelligence and the ability to comprehend and follow commands make them natural performers. History demonstrates this through the numerous Indian movies where a Spitz played a central character, like the famous Bollywood movie Hum Aapke Hain Koun. Proving that they can effortlessly steal scenes, and hearts!
And that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to these endearing canines. Stay tuned as we delve deeper into the captivating world of the Indian Spitz.
The Indian Spitz: Suitable For All Types Of Families
Whether you are a single, live in a nuclear family with senior citizens, or have young, energetic children, the Indian Spitz will effortlessly make their mark in your home and heart. They have amicable attributes that makes them great companions for anyone. Plus, being adaptable, they do not face substantial challenges when it comes to settling in the fluctuating Indian climate.
Vivacious Vigilantes
Despite their small size, Indian Spitz dogs are renowned for their alert nature. They have exceptional hearing abilities that alert them promptly at the smallest unusual sound, making them excellent watchdogs. No matter how deep of a slumber they’re in, they can pick up noises from far off and maintain a vigilant watch over their surroundings. So, all you apartment dwellers, scaling up safety with some fluffiness never seemed more enticing, right?
Affectionate and Loyal
The Indian Spitz dogs are inherent charmers, combining their cute looks with an overwhelming affection for their family. Renowned for their loyalty, this breed derives joy from being around people. They blossom in the warmth of their human family and are known to follow their favorite person around the house like shadows. If you’re looking for a steadfast, furry friend who enthusiastically showers you with unending love, Indian Spitz is an ideal choice.
Caring for your Indian Spitz
Their fluffy white coats are beautiful to admire, but do require regular grooming. The Indian Spitz’s dense coat needs regular bathing and brushing to keep it fluff-free and shiny. They are also prone to dental issues, so dental hygiene is pivotal. A grooming routine enriches not just their physical health, but is also a fantastic way to further bond with your pet.
Their Diet
The Indian Spitz tends to have a good appetite. They are fond of both veg and non-veg diets. Their diet should be balanced, fulfilling their nutritional needs. Plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean meats are essential. The key is ensuring moderation to evade weight gain and avoid health issues. The quantity of food will also vary based on their age, size, and activity levels. Consulting with a veterinarian to establish the perfect diet plan is always a good idea.
Physical Activity
Just like all dog breeds, the Indian Spitz requires a healthy dose of daily exercise to maintain their exuberant spirit. Regular walks and play sessions are vital to keep them physically and mentally fit. Training them early will make them disciplined and more comfortable to manage. These lively balls of fur would love to accompany you on hikes, jogs, or even a friendly game of fetch.
The path to discovering the perfect canine companion may be intertwined with numerous hurdles, but rest assured, the Indian Spitz with its enigmatic traits will convince you that it’s totally worth it!
Living Long and Healthy lives
The Indian Spitz is renowned for its longevity, with an average life expectancy of 10-16 years. They’re generally robust and healthy, but certain health issues can afflict them. Unlike various other breeds, they have a lower risk of hip dysplasia but are prone to certain eye issues like progressive retinal atrophy. For good health, regular vet checks are recommended. Daily health checks can also help in early detection of potential health issues.
Grooming your Indian Spitz
Indian Spitz dogs are extremely clean and self-groom. They detest dirtying their coats, which make them one of the most hygienic pets to have! However, they’re also heavy shedders and need consistent brushing to reduce shedding volume. Using a high-quality brush will not only help in grooming but also provide them much-needed petting and bonding time.
Loved and Adored All Over India
The Indian Spitz was the most popular breed in India during the 1980s and 90s before the influx of exotic breeds. Even today, they hold a special place in Indian homes. Their popularity extends beyond households; movies and TV shows featuring these little charmers have significantly boosted their reputation. An iconic Bollywood movie “Dil To Pagal Hai” gave the Indian Spitz a celebrity status when the breed featured prominently in it. Hence, proving that they are indeed a hot favorite in the Indian pop culture.
Why the Indian Spitz?
So, why would you choose an Indian Spitz over the countless other breeds? Well, their playful nature, intelligence, loyalty, affection, and ease of maintenance make them an ideal option for both first-time and experienced dog owners. Above all, owning an Indian Spitz allows you to carry a piece of India’s rich tradition and culture right into your homes. Their striking looks and vivacious personality are bound to bring joy and warmth into your dwelling and divorce you from dullness. If you are considering adopting a dog, the Indian Spitz could be the right choice for you.
Wrap Up
Indian Spitz is a beautiful, intelligent and affectionate dog breed rich in Indian heritage. Despite their size, they are energetic, vigilant, and born entertainers. Whether you live in an apartment or a spacious house, in a bustling city or calm countryside, the Indian Spitz can adapt and bring love, joy and security to your home. Just remember; their maintenance is as important as their entertainment. Now that you have unraveled plentiful intriguing insights about this enigmatic canine, the adoption decision may somewhat seem less daunting!
