The Japanese Spitz is a small dog, around 33 cm (13 in)s) at the withers, with a somewhat square body, deep chest, and a very thick, pure white double coat.

In Japan, the ideal size for males are described as 30–38 cm at the withers, with females somewhat smaller; (the Japanese standard is the one published by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale for international dog competitions.

[7] The final Standard for the breed was written after World War II, and accepted by the Japan Kennel Club.

In April 2019, the American Kennel Club added Japanese Spitz breed to Foundation Stock Service that means is yet to be recognized by the AKC.

The main health concern for Japanese Spitz is the development of Patellar luxation, a condition in which the kneecap dislocates out of its normal position.

They can also be prone to runny eyes, which is most commonly due to having tear ducts that are too small, or an allergy to long grass or stress.

[9] A 2024 UK study found a life expectancy of 13 years for the breed compared to an average of 12.7 for purebreeds and 12 for crossbreeds.

Most Japanese Spitz are good watch dogs, despite their relatively small size, and they have a tendency to bark to warn of arriving strangers.

[11] The Japanese Spitz is first and foremost a companion dog and thrives on human contact and attention, preferring to be a member of the family.

[12] Japanese Spitz can tolerate cold weather but, as it was bred as a companion dog, prefers to live in the house with the warmth of its human family.