Mittelspitz is a popular breed of decorative dogs. In the people, this variety is also often called a middle or German spitz. The breed has its own distinctive features, and before you get a dog, you should learn how to care for it, how to feed it, how to train an animal.
Origin
The Mittelspitz breed has a rather interesting history of its origin. As the name implies, these animals are widely distributed primarily in the territory of modern Germany. The date of their appearance is the XIV century.
German Spitz, who were large in size and heavy in body weight, were most often brought into low-income households. They played the role of security guards. Spitzs of a smaller size were popular among the noble strata of the population. Already in the XIX century in Germany appeared the first club of medium breed Spitz. Members of this public organization have set the necessary standards for animals belonging to this species.
Description
If you are thinking about buying a puppy as a pet, you should first familiarize yourself with all the characteristic signs and features that are characteristic of this breed.
Only after you analyze all the pros and cons, you can make a truly correct and balanced decision regarding the future pet.
Body dimensions and structure
First of all, it is necessary to consider the external signs and anatomical structure of the animal. It should be noted that this breed belongs to the so-called fox type dogs. She has a thick fluffy coat, and also has a particularly gaze.The dogs have a harmoniously folded body, the height at the withers is about 30–35 cm, and the weight usually does not exceed 12 kg. Life expectancy is 13-15 years.
From an anatomical point of view, the dog is quite attractive. The head of the animal is fully proportional to the body, tapers to the tip of the nose, the lobe of which is painted in a deep black or dark brown shade. Type of bite - scissor.
Almond-shaped eyes have an average size, the most popular color is brown. The ears of the middles are triangular in shape and small in size, have sharp tips. They are set rather high, but are relatively close to each other. The neck expands slightly at its base and passes into a straight back. A tail in the shape of a ring is thrown back.
Color
The coat of the mittelspitz is thick and dense, but at the same time soft. It forms a large fluffy collar at the neck, as well as the so-called tow on the limbs and tail. The color of the animal can be varied. The most common colors are:
- brown;
- the black;
- Orange;
- white;
- grey;
- cream;
- sable.
It is worth noting that the coloring can be not only monophonic. So, for example, there are cases when the color is spotty or has a kind of tan.
Moreover, it is important to mention the fact that the main color of spotted dogs is white, and spots (black, orange, brown or gray) are distributed randomly over the entire surface of the animal’s body.
Character
One of the most important distinguishing features regarding the character and behavior of the Spitz is that the animal is distinguished by non-trivial intellectual abilities, shows intelligence and quick wits. In addition, dogs are quite active and energetic, they quickly, easily and for a long time become attached to their owner and show the warmest and most tender feelings towards him. Animals get along well with young children. In this regard, a behavioral trait of a pet is found that may not appeal to everyone: a middler needs constant attention and care, can distract household members from their daily affairs and household duties, and demand affection.
And it is also important to note the fact that tetrapods very well feel any changes in the environment. This characteristic determines the ability of the middle men to become good guards: they feel the approach of a stranger and are very vigilant and wary of this.
As for the cohabitation of dogs with other animals in the same territory, it is more than possible. At the same time, the circumstance that the spokesmen are quite jealous should be taken into account. Therefore, if they notice or feel that other pets are given more time and attention, they may be aggressive.
Food
In terms of nutrition, middles are not whimsical. They can eat a variety of types of food: both dry food and natural foods. The choice of a specific type of food rests on the shoulders of the owner of the four-legged pet. Whichever of the proposed options you choose, you should make sure that your dog’s food is saturated with all the necessary useful components: minerals, vitamins and trace elements. To do this, carefully read the label on the packaging of dry food or make a balanced menu of natural products.
In addition, you need to take care of scheduling and feeding. It is advisable that meals be taken daily at the same time. Do not forget that the animal needs free access to clean water.
Care
As for the care measures, as well as keeping the animal, it is important to keep in mind that the dog does not need a large space, so it can even be kept in a small apartment. Nevertheless, even in the most cramped conditions, the middler must have his own sleeping place, a tray, and also bowls for food and water. Due to the particularly thick and dense hair, the animal of this breed needs constant haircuts.
In addition, regularly pet and need to comb out. This procedure should take place at least once a week.
Hygienic procedures and bathing should be carried out as they become dirty, the approximate frequency is 1 time per month. During bathing, detergents specially designed for animals are used. In addition, remember to regularly clean your ears, eyes and teeth, as well as cut the claws of the animal. It is equally important not to forget about vaccinations, treating a dog from helminths, fleas and other harmful organisms, as well as regular check-ups with a veterinarian for preventive purposes.
Parenting and training
Mittelspitz have pronounced intellectual abilities, so they lend themselves well to training and training. However, for these events to be effective, a few simple rules must be followed.
- In order to interest and attract a pet, the process of education and training is best carried out in the form of a game. Animals do not like the monotonous execution of commands.
- During training, you can not show aggression towards the pet, you can not shout at him. However, one should behave quite strictly.
- Teach your dog standard commands first, and then move on to more complex, complex actions.
The story of the Mittelspitz in the next video.