Grooming a Spitz

Frequent brushing is recommended.
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The spitz originated as a European bred hunting dog. Nomadic tribes traveling to different regions bred the spitz to fit their needs, resulting in several spitz type breeds. Finnish spitz, Pomeranians, Japanese spitz and American Eskimo dogs are among the breeds descended from the German spitz. The spitz has a long, coarse outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat.

Brushing Your Spitz

Brush your spitz beginning at his tail and working to his head using a pin brush. Brush against the hair growth from the skin out with a gentle touch. Remove any knots with a slicker brush, separating small amounts at a time until they are removed. Finish up with a double toothed metal comb to be sure that all the knots are removed.

Bathing Your Spitz

The spitz does not require frequent baths. Once every 6 to 8 weeks is sufficient. After brushing your spitz, thoroughly wet his fur using a sprayer. Gently massage your spitz with a diluted dog shampoo starting at the head and working to the tail. Take care to thoroughly rinse the dense, water resistant undercoat of the spitz. A canine creme rinse can be used if desired.

Fluff Drying Your Spitz

Fluff drying your spitz helps remove loose fur. After towel drying the spitz brush his coat against the direction of the hair growth with a pin brush while holding a blow dryer over the area being brushed. Place your hand under the dryer occasionally to be sure it is not too hot. Thoroughly dry one section before moving to the next.

Proper Nail Trimming of a Spitz

Your spitz should have his nails trimmed every 2 to 6 weeks. Clipping the nails too short will cause bleeding. Your veterinarian or local groomer can demonstrate the proper way to trim nails. If you are not comfortable doing this it is recommended that you have it done by a professional.

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