Spitz

The Spitz is a breed of dog divided into at least thirteen individual species since the late nineteenth century. The Nihon Supittsu, or Japanese Spitz, became popular among Japanese royalty and nobility during the Heian period (794-1185). During this time and continuing into the Meiji period (1868-1912), the Japanese Spitz was considered one of Japan’s national treasures. Since then, several types have been bred as pets in Japan under names such as Kuri; Shiba Inu; Hokkaido; Jindo, Aino; Ōdate; Iwate; Akita; Kishu; TorigoyaYako, etc.