With an adorably charming appearance and a sparkly, cheerful personality, the Spitzpoo mix is the literal embodiment of the phrase “sugar, spice, and everything nice!”
This designer dog is a combination of a Poodle and a Spitz. Although it comes from two adored and well-known breeds, most people may not be familiar with the Spitzpoo mix.
Luckily, this article will help you learn more about this cheerful, adorable pup. Keep reading to find out about the wonders of the Spitz Poodle mix — including its appearance, temperament, costs, and much more!
Breed Overview
| Height: | 12 – 24 inches |
| Weight: | 15 – 70 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 8 – 15 years |
| Coat Colors: | White, cream, apricot, brown, black |
| Temperament: | Playful, affectionate, independent |
| Suitable for: | Families with small children, active individuals |
What Is a Spitzpoo?
The Spitzpoo is a small- to medium-sized designer dog breed that results from crossing a Poodle and a German or Japanese Spitz. This hybrid dog is known for its fluffy, teddy bear-like coat. Spitzpoos are also intelligent, playful, and lovable, making them suitable for most kinds of families.
The Spitzpoo is a designer breed and, as such, is not recognized by major kennel clubs such as the American Kennel Club (AKC). However, it is recognized by the Dog Registry of America (DRA).
It is important to note that the Spitz is not a specific breed of dog; rather, it is a type of dog with certain characteristics. Spitz dogs include the Akita, Alaskan Malamute, American Eskimo Dog, and Chow Chow.
However, the Spitzpoo mix usually refers to the combination of a Poodle and either a Japanese Spitz or a German Spitz.
Because of these different possible combinations, it can be difficult to predict the size and appearance of a Spitzpoo mix because of the different variations of its parent breeds.
Regardless of what it looks like, this mixed breed is generally known as a cheerful, active, and intelligent dog breed that is sure to charm any dog lover.
Spitzpoo Origin and History
The origins of the Spitzpoo, like most designer dog breeds, are not well-documented. Luckily, looking at the histories of its parent breeds, the Spitz and the Poodle, can give an idea of how this designer dog came to be.
The Spitz breed is a group of dogs best known for their thick fur, pointed ears, and curly tails. They are some of the oldest dog breeds in the world and are believed to originate from the Arctic region.
These dogs were originally used as sled dogs, hunting dogs, and guard dogs. As time progressed, they became popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, when they became common pets and show dogs.
Similarly, Poodles are considered an old breed of dog, originating from Germany and France as water retrievers and hunting dogs. Their name comes from the German word ‘pudel,’ meaning ‘to splash.’
Throughout the years, the Poodle breed became more popular as show dogs, which is partially attributed to their unique, curly coats. Today, they are well-loved breeds that serve as family pets, therapy dogs, and show dogs.
Meanwhile, the Spitzpoo was believed to be developed in the early 2000s. According to many, the motivation behind the cross was to create a dog that combined the hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle with the best traits of the Spitz.
Spitzpoo Appearance
The appearance of a Spitzpoo can vary depending on the specific Spitz and Poodle breeds used in the breeding process. As mentioned earlier, both the German and Japanese Spitz can be used to create a Spitzpoo.
Furthermore, there are different Poodle sizes that will also influence the overall appearance and build of a Spitzpoo puppy.
Nevertheless, the general appearance of a Spitz Poodle mix can be characterized by a sturdy build and a round head. They also have dark eyes and black noses that contribute to their teddy bear-like appearance.
The ears can be either floppy or erect, depending on the dominant breed. The same principle applies to their thick, fluffy coats, which are either wavy, curly, or straight, depending on what they inherit from their parents.
The coat can be of various colors, similar to the colors found in a Poodle breed. Spitzpoos have solid-colored coats that are white, cream, apricot, brown, or black. It is rare to find a Spitzpoo that has markings or patterns.
Overall, the Spitzpoo has a sweet, cuddly appearance that is a significant part of its charm.
Spitzpoo Size and Weight
Generally, Spitzpoos are considered to be small to medium-sized dogs, typically weighing anywhere between 15 and 70 pounds and standing between 12 and 24 inches tall.
While this range generally holds true, some Spitzpoos may be smaller or larger. As a cross between a Poodle and a Spitz, the actual size and weight of a Spitzpoo can be influenced heavily by the parents.
Both the Spitz and the Poodle breeds come in all sizes and shapes. If a Spitzpoo was bred from the Toy or Miniature Poodle, then expect that the Spitzpoo may also have a small stature.
Spitzpoos reach their full-grown size by the time they are 7 to 8 months old.
Spitzpoo Temperament and Personality
The adorable appearance of the Spitz Poodle mix pairs very well with the general temperament and personality of this mixed breed. Typically, Spitzpoos are very playful, energetic, affectionate, and loyal dogs.
These crossbreed dogs are often very cheerful and friendly dogs that will enjoy giving and receiving affection. They are extremely loyal, eager to please, and great with children — all the makings of a perfect family pet.
These mixes are also highly energetic, which means they are suitable companions for small children and active individuals who are looking for a fun furry friend.
However, Spitzpoos may inherit the Spitz’s independent streak, which can make them stubborn and challenging to train at times. Fortunately, with the right training approach, they can pick up commands easily.
As with all hybrid breeds, the temperament and personality of the Spitzpoo can vary depending on the traits inherited from its parent breeds, its environment, and its upbringing.
Spitzpoo Lifespan and Health Issues
Generally, the lifespan of a Spitz Poodle mix lasts anywhere between 8 and 15 years. Its lifespan is affected by its lineage and lifestyle, including diet, exercise, activity levels, and overall health condition.
In some cases, mixed-breed dogs like the Spitzpoo may actually be less prone to health issues compared to their purebred parent breeds. Still, owners should make vet visits a regular habit.
Here are a few common health issues a Spitzpoo may develop:
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): This is a group of inherited eye diseases that cause progressive degeneration of a Spitzpoo’s retinas, leading to a gradual loss of vision that may eventually turn into complete blindness. Symptoms vary depending on the stage of the disease but can include night blindness and dilated pupils.
- Patellar Luxation: Canine patellar luxation, also known as kneecap dislocation, is a common orthopedic condition most commonly seen in small dogs like the Spitzpoo. It occurs when the kneecap is displaced from its normal position in the groove of the femur bone, causing discomfort, pain, and lameness.
- Skin Diseases: Both the Spitz and the Poodle breeds are prone to common skin ailments that a Spitzpoo may inherit, depending on its genetics. These include skin allergies, sebaceous adenitis, hot spots or moist dermatitis, and atopic dermatitis.
Like with all health ailments, some are preventable with the right maintenance, diet, and lifestyle. However, to minimize the effects of genetic conditions, regular health tests and check-ups are recommended.
How to Take Care of Your Spitz Poodle Mix
A Spitzpoo dog is a versatile pet that can be a suitable companion for all kinds of families and individuals. Taking care of a Spitz Poodle mix can be easy and relatively low-maintenance.
To help you, take note of these general care guidelines for a Spitz Poo.
Food and Diet
A Spitzpoodle mix, like all dogs, needs a balanced and nutritious diet to maintain its health and well-being. Choose high-quality dog food rich in protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Also, it is best to feed your Spitzpoo smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day instead of one or two large meals. This can help prevent digestive issues and keep your dog’s energy levels stable.
Cleaning and Grooming
The grooming needs of a Spitzpoo can vary depending on the traits it inherits from its parent breeds. Regardless, brushing should be done at least twice a week to prevent tangles and reduce shedding.
Brushing a Spitzpoo’s teeth and cleaning its ears should also be done regularly. Once or twice a week should be enough to prevent tartar, dirt, and debris buildup in its mouth and ears.
Bathing, nail trimming, and haircuts are also grooming essentials, but these should only be done once a month or at least whenever necessary.
Training and Exercise
Spitz Poodle mixes are generally very active, energetic dogs. Thus, they require ample amounts of physical and mental stimulation to keep them from developing destructive habits.
At least 30 minutes of exercise each day, composed of walking, jogging, or playing in open spaces, is recommended. However, the duration and intensity of exercise should be appropriate to your dog’s age and physical condition.
Spitzpoos will also enjoy mentally-stimulating challenges. Aside from toys and puzzle games, consider activities like hide-and-seek and trick training.
Speaking of training, Spitzpoos are intelligent pups that can learn commands quickly, especially when the trainer is consistent and patient during training sessions.
How Much Does a Spitzpoo Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses
The average cost of a Spitz Poodle mix ranges from $600 to $2,000. However, some Spitzpoo breeders price their dogs as high as $4,000. These prices depend on factors such as age, lineage, and breeder reputation.
Before committing to any pet, owners should be financially prepared to shoulder initial and annual pet expenses. These include necessities like food, beds, toys, collars, grooming needs, vet visits, and the like.
Here is a table of the initial expenses that come with owning a Spitz Poodle mix:
| Type of Expense | Cost |
| Food and Treats | $30 – $110 |
| Bowls | $10 – $30 |
| Toys | $20 – $60 |
| Beds | $30 – $200 |
| Collars and Leashes | $15 – $50 |
| Crates and Carriers | $30 – $370 |
| Grooming Essentials | $50 – $160 |
| Initial Vet Visits | $100 – $500 |
| Initial Vaccine Shots | $50 – $300 |
| Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications | $40 – $300 |
| Neutering or Spaying | $50 – $500 |
| Microchipping | $40 – $60 |
| Dog License | $10 – $20 |
| Other Essentials | $20 – $50 |
| Total Initial Cost | $495 – $2,710 |
Because the Spitzpoo can range in size from small to medium, these prices may vary depending on the size of the pup. The initial costs also do not include other expenses like pet sitters, pet insurance, and emergency vet visits.
Financial responsibility should be a trait that all aspiring dog owners should have. Owning a Spitz Poo can be an expensive commitment, but it will be worth it to see these dogs live long, healthy, and happy lives.
Places to Find Spitzpoo Puppies for Sale and Adoption
Although the Spitz Poodle is a relatively new mixed breed, there are already a variety of resources where aspiring owners can acquire this wonderfully adorable pup.
Because a Spitzpoo is mixed, it may be challenging to find a breeder that specifically sells Spitzpoo puppies.
Still, if you are looking to buy your Spitzpoo puppy from a breeder or seller, make sure to do research to ensure credibility.
To help you get started, here are some places where you can find a Spitzpoo mix for sale:
- AKC Marketplace – The AKC Marketplace is an online service that connects potential buyers with AKC-registered breeders who have puppies and adult dogs for sale. Although most pups here are purebred, it can be a great resource for connecting with breeders, which can lead you to the Spitzpoo of your dreams.
- Lancaster Puppies – Lancaster Puppies is an online marketplace that connects potential puppy owners with reputable dog breeders. This site offers both purebred and mixed dogs, including the Spitzpoo. Breeders associated with Lancaster Puppies are required to meet certain standards to ensure ethical breeding practices.
- PuppySpot – PuppySpot is an online puppy directory that features details about each puppy, including breed, age, gender, color, and even information about the breeders and their facilities. That said, a Spitzpoo from PuppySpot is sure to be from high-quality breeders.
Many dog owners opt to adopt a dog instead of buying one as a way to support shelters and help a dog in need. If you are considering adopting a Spitzpoo, there are also several organizations and shelters you can turn to.
Here are some reputable places where you can find a Spitzpoo dog for adoption:
- Petfinder – Petfinder is an online database where users can search for pets based on their location, breed, age, gender, size, and other characteristics, making the search for a Spitzpoo easier. The platform is known to partner with local animal shelters and rescue groups to provide support for homeless pets and to promote adoption.
- Carolina Poodle Rescue – This organization is a no-kill, non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming Poodles and Poodle mixes like the Spitzpoo. It is run entirely by volunteers who share a passion for helping Poodles in need, promoting responsible pet ownership, and advocating for pet welfare.
- Arizona Poodle Rescue – Established in 2003, the Arizona Poodle Rescue takes in Poodles and Poodle mixes like the Spitzpoo from a variety of sources, including shelters, owner surrenders, and strays. The dogs are placed in foster homes where they receive medical care, training, and socialization before being adopted into forever homes. As of last year, they have placed 4,520 dogs into loving homes.
If you are hoping to get your very own Spitzpoo, always make sure that the breeder, seller, shelter, or rescue organization is credible and up to standard. As much as possible, avoid any indications of unethical practices.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Spitz Poodle Mix
Different dog breeds have their own quirks that make them unique. Some of these may be beneficial, but some can also be disadvantageous to certain dog owners.
Thus, before owning a Spitzpoo, be aware of the possible pros and cons of this mixed dog breed.
Here are some potential advantages of owning a Spitzpoo:
- Excellent family pets: Spitzpoos are known to be very affectionate and loving dogs, which makes them excellent family pets. They are especially known to be good with small children and even other pets, which means they can be excellent additions to any family.
- Intelligence and trainability: Both Poodles and Spitz dogs are known for their high intelligence. As a result, Spitzpoos tend to be quick learners, making them easier to train and teach new tricks. They can also be good watchdogs that will bark to alert you if they sense any danger or strangers around.
- Low grooming needs: Poodles are known for curly, dense coats that hardly shed. Spitzpoos may inherit this type of coat, which means that coat shedding and home maintenance will not be a big problem.
On the other hand, here are some potential disadvantages of owning a Spitzpoo.
- High activity needs: Both Spitz and Poodle breeds are energetic dogs, which means that Spitzpoos may require a lot of exercise and playtime to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. This dog may not be suitable for low-activity households.
- Prone to some health issues: Spitzpoos, like all mixed breeds, can inherit genetic health issues from their parents. Aside from the health issues mentioned earlier, other ailments to look out for in Spitzpoos include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and allergies.
- Challenging to source: There are few to no breeders that specifically breed the Spitzpoo mix, which means that it can be challenging to find a Spitzpoo puppy for sale in an area near you.
Overall, Spitzpoos can make excellent pets for the right owner who is willing to provide them with plenty of love and care. However, potential owners should be aware of the possible setbacks before committing to a Spitzpoo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Spitzpoos Good Family Dogs?
Spitzpoos can make excellent family dogs as they tend to get along well with children and other pets. They are also highly trainable and eager to please, which makes them a great fit for families.
Do Spitzpoos Shed?
Poodles are known for being low-shedding dogs, while Spitz-type breeds can shed moderately to heavily depending on the specific breed. Therefore, the shedding tendency of a Spitzpoo can be unpredictable.
Typically, however, Spitzpoos have been observed to be low-shedders.
Are Spitzpoos Hypoallergenic?
While Poodles are generally considered hypoallergenic dogs because they don’t produce as much dander, the same cannot be said for Spitz-type dogs.
Whether or not a Spitzpoo can be considered hypoallergenic depends on the traits it inherits from its parent dogs. But, generally speaking, it is reasonable to expect the Spitzpoo to be mostly hypoallergenic.
Do Spitzpoos Bark a Lot?
Spitzpoos can vary in their tendency to bark. Generally, both Spitz and Poodles are known to be vocal breeds, and Spitzpoos may inherit this trait. Thus, one can expect that some Spitzpoos may be heavy barkers.
Final Thoughts
There are hundreds of dog breeds with unbearably cute appearances, but the Spitzpoo mix is one of a kind. After reading all about the Spitz Poodle mix, it is easy to see that this designer dog is more than just its cute looks.
The Spitz Poodle is also a cheerful, fun-loving pup that is loyal to its loved ones. It is especially perfect for dog owners looking for a family-oriented pup that is highly active and trainable.
As such, it is fair to say that anyone who has met a Spitzpoo can be considered better off than those who have not had the pleasure of meeting this wonderful mix.
Did this article convince you to get this unique mixed-breed dog? Share your thoughts about the Spitzpoo by leaving a comment below!
