German Spitz (Mittel)

Like the smaller Klein, the Mittel descends from a long line of central European spitz dogs kept for centuries on German farms and river barges as alert household watchdogs rather than for any specific working task beyond raising the alarm. The Mittel size was formally distinguished from the Klein and the larger Grosspitz in twentieth-century German breed standards, though all share the same dense double coat and pricked ears.

Living with a German Spitz (Mittel) means living with a confident, intelligent dog that takes its watchdog role seriously and will bark readily at anything unfamiliar, a trait that suits some households and frustrates others. They are affectionate and playful with their family, generally good with children in households they know well, and enjoy moderate daily exercise rather than intense activity. The thick coat needs brushing several times weekly, more often during the heavy seasonal moults.

Today the German Spitz (Mittel) remains most common in Germany and other parts of continental Europe, with smaller but growing numbers in the UK. It suits owners after an alert, characterful companion of manageable size, provided they are prepared to manage its vocal instincts and keep up with its grooming needs.