Indian Spitz

Also called Pista, Pisha dog

Recognised breedShort profile

From India, developed from German Spitz dogs brought by the British.1

At a glance the quick version

Weight, male15 to 20 kg1

Weight, female10 to 15 kg1

Height, male35 to 45 cm1

Height, female40 cm1

Sizesmall

Wikipedia is the only source found; these figures seem heavy for the stated height, so treat them with care.

easy to train

very adaptable

easy to live with

Coat and looks how to spot one

double coat

A fox-faced spitz with small upright ears, a plumed tail over the back and a fluffy double coat. It looks like a larger Pomeranian with a somewhat shorter coat.1

Colourswhite (most common)brownblackmixed colours1

Personality what they are like

Bright, lively and eager to learn, with a reputation as one of the easiest family dogs to house-train and live with.1

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Moderate: daily walks and play keep it content.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Brush regularly, more often when it sheds heavily in warm months, and bathe about once or twice a month.1

Home where they are happiest

Bred to handle India's heat better than its European ancestors, and adapts well to flats and houses.1

Company who they like around

A people-focused companion that fits well into family life.1

The story where it all began

British residents brought German Spitz dogs to India in the 19th century, and local breeders shaped them to cope with the hot climate. The Indian Spitz became hugely popular in the 1980s and 1990s, when import rules made foreign breeds hard to get.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Tuffy, the dog in the 1994 Bollywood hit Hum Aapke Hain Koun, was an Indian Spitz named Redo.1
2
It is often mistaken for a Pomeranian but is bigger with a shorter coat.1
3
It was one of India's most popular breeds in the 1980s and 1990s.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The Indian Spitz is a spitz-type dog breed from India, named for its spitz characteristics (pointed ears, curled tail) and its Indian origin. It is also nicknamed 'Pista' or 'pisha dog'.1

Name ideas for your new friend

PistaMochiBubblesTaraCocoSimbaChaiLuckyZaraOreoPepperRoxy

A day in the life told by an Indian Spitz

I woke up with a bounce in my step, ready for breakfast. After a quick cuddle, I helped my human make the bed by zooming over the pillows. Then we went for a walk, and I greeted every neighbor with a wag and a happy bark, they all smiled at me. Back home, I practiced a new trick for a biscuit, which I nailed on the first try. In the afternoon, I curled up on the sofa for a nap, but my tail kept thumping whenever my human walked by. Evening playtime with my favorite ball was the best part of my day.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

Kennel Club of India: Wikipedia places the breed in the utility group; no FCI recognition.1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for an Indian Spitz. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

BrushingDaily during heavy sheddingevery 3 days
Double coats insulate against cold and heat, so shaving is not recommended
Bathevery 10 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Indian Spitz, and at what times?

Feed adult Indian Spitz at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Consistent meal times help with house-training. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.2

What should an Indian Spitz eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A balanced commercial dog food suited to its age is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by experts. Always consult your vet for a tailored diet.3

How often should I bathe an Indian Spitz?

General care suggests bathing about once or twice a month, while Furry Diary's starting plan recommends every 70 days. Adjust based on your dog's activity and coat, and follow your vet's advice.1 4 Pet Wiki plan

How often does an Indian Spitz need brushing?

Brush regularly, at least every few days, and daily during heavy shedding in warm months. Furry Diary's plan suggests every 3 days, increasing to daily when shedding. This keeps the double coat healthy.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim an Indian Spitz's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every three weeks or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.4 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does an Indian Spitz need?

Moderate exercise with daily walks and playtime keeps your Indian Spitz content and healthy. This bright, lively dog enjoys activity but doesn't need excessive running.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after an Indian Spitz's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth daily if possible, at least a few times a week, using dog toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks and clean gently without inserting anything into the canal. Your vet can show you the best technique.4 Pet Wiki plan

How long does an Indian Spitz live?

Exact lifespan isn't specified in our sources, but Furry Diary notes that senior years often begin around age 10. For breed-specific longevity, ask a good breeder or your vet. Pet Wiki plan

Is an Indian Spitz good with children and other pets?

Yes, this people-focused companion is known as a family-friendly dog that fits well into home life. With proper socialization, it can be wonderful with children and other pets. Always supervise early interactions.1

Can an Indian Spitz be left alone?

As a people-oriented breed, it may not enjoy long periods alone. Provide toys and a comfortable space, and gradually accustom it to alone time. For specific tips, consult your breeder or vet.1

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.