Indian Spitz vs Formosan Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison

Indian Spitz vs Formosan Mountain Dog - Breed ComparisonIndian Spitz is originated from India but Formosan Mountain Dog is originated from Taiwan. Indian Spitz may grow 27 cm / 10 inches shorter than Formosan Mountain Dog. Indian Spitz may weigh 11 kg / 24 pounds lesser than Formosan Mountain Dog. Both Indian Spitz and Formosan Mountain Dog has almost same life span. Indian Spitz may have less litter size than Formosan Mountain Dog. Indian Spitz requires Moderate maintenance. But Formosan Mountain Dog requires Low maintenance

History

indian spitz - historyThe Indian Spitz is a working dog and has always been used for hunting and tracking small game. It is a popular dog breed in India.

There isn't too much information on the exact origin of the dog but dog experts tell us the dogs have descended from different Spitz breeds and wild wolves, and that they date back thousands of years.

People often mix them up with the Pomeranian, but they're different, being introduced in India by the British. The British began breeding them from a stock of German Spitz's and years of breeding produced the ideal dog type which could cope with the tempestuous weather conditions in India.

They aren't recognized by any major kennel clubs but the Kennel Club of India is working to establish the Indian Spitz as a separate breed.

formosan mountain dog - historyThe Formosan Mountain Dog is most often known as the Taiwan dog and it is a landrace indigenous to Taiwan. It is a small to medium breed of dog that was semi-wild at one time. The colonialization of Taiwan and other foreigners help to fully domesticate the Formosan Mountain Dog. They were found to be very trainable and uniquely suited for the terrain around Taiwan. The dogs were easy to train and now serve as hunting dogs, stunt dogs, guard dogs, rescue dogs, therapy dog and personal companions. There are three types of Formosans two smaller types and one medium. However, the original pure Formosan Mountain Dog is getting close to extinction again because the government and people have provided no protection or conservation efforts for them. These dogs have been living in Taiwan in the mountains and were called Formosan Mountain Dogs when Taiwan was known as Formosa. They come from a line of Southeast Asian hunting/gun dogs and they are considered ‘rare’ now.

According to historian Dr. Sung Yung-yi, the breed went through 4 major catastrophes that affected their development. The first of these was the Dutch Establishment in 1624. The Dutch colonized Taiwan and imported both people and dogs. The dog they brought in was called the Flying Dog and was either Greyhound or Pointer. Eventually, the Flying Dog bred with the Formosan Mountain Dog. This along with the slaughter of dogs belonging to the indigenous people by the government, starting the decline of the original Taiwan dog.

In 1895, it was the Japanese acquiring Taiwan following the First Sino-Japanese War. The Japanese bred the Formosan Mountain Dog extensively with the own Japanese dogs. This further diluted the line and authenticity of Taiwan dogs.

This was followed by World War II when German Shepherds traveled with the US Army and they cross-bred with the Formosan. This was the third major dilution of the Formosan Mountain dog line. At the same time, the Japanese government considered the Formosan Mountain Dog a sanitation threat and barbaric. They massacred them in large numbers in the name of sanitation.

The fourth and final dilution took place during the Kuomintang Era beginning in 1945 with the arrival of the Chinese Nationalist Party. They brought with them the culture of eating dogs. During this time the economy of Taiwan took off and business people began to import their own foreign dogs that were high priced purebreds. These dogs bred with the Formosan and other Formosans were just abandoned to die. The ranks of the breed became very thin indeed. Today’s pure Formosan is highly valuable and extremely rare. Because of all the crossbreeding over the centuries, today’s purebred Formosan Mountain Dog is very different from the Taiwan dog of old. Today’s Formosan is loved all over the island and is a companion and watchdog.

Today there is an effort by Taiwanese ecologists to put together a research project that would study and preserve the Formosan in its indigenous form. Dr. Yung-yi led this effort. He located only 46 dogs with a pure pedigree, 21 females and 25 males. They let the Food and Agricultural of the United Nations know and the dogs were labeled close to extinction. Reproducing from the indigenous dogs to purify and increase the breed was the goal. The government was not very supportive.

Today the Royal Air Force is looking at the Formosan Dog to use for military security. They are currently only using German Shepherds and needed another choice. It was decided that the Formosan Mountain Dog had a better sense of smell, dexterity, alertness, and hearing as well as better padding on their paws.

Through these efforts and those of foundation stock breeders and owners, the Formosan Mountain Dog in its indigenous form was brought back. Some call this dog a purebred Formosan while others consider it a new type. Standards were presented to the FCI for registrations as a purebred. This debate continues today

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Sporting dog
Origin:
India
Taiwan
Height Male:
20 - 25 cm
7 - 10 inches
48 - 52 cm
18 - 21 inches
Height Female:
20 - 25 cm
7 - 10 inches
43 - 47 cm
16 - 19 inches
Weight Male:
5 - 7 kg
11 - 16 pounds
14 - 18 kg
30 - 40 pounds
Weight Female:
5 - 7 kg
11 - 16 pounds
12 - 16 kg
26 - 36 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 14 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
1 - 5
10 - 13
Size:
Small dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Greater Indian Spitz, Smaller Indian Spitz
Taiwan Canis, Taiwanese Dog, Taiwanese Aboriginal Dog, Native Formosan Dog, Taiwanese Native Dog, Taiwanese Mountain Dog, National Dog Takasago Dog , and Taiwanese Dog., Formosan Hunting Dog, Formosan, Native Taiwanese Dog, Formosan Aboriginal Dog, Formosan Dog, Taiwanse Canis. Formosan Native Dog
Colors Available:
White, brown or black and white.
earthly yellow, Black, or yellow
Coat:
Long and fluffy
smooth and oily
Shedding:
Minimal
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Sweet, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Energetic, Friendly, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Protective
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Description

indian spitz puppy - descriptionThe Indian Spitz is an attractive, fluffy looking dog breed thought to have been domesticated thousands of years ago.

The dog comes in two sizes – the smaller- and larger size. The Smaller Indian Spitz stands at between 20 - 25 cm and weighs between 5 – 7kg while the Greater Indian Spitz stands at 35-45cm and weighs between 12 – 20kg.

The dog has a long-haired coat, with the hair on the head being shorter than the rest of the body. The color of the coat can be white, brown or black and white.

Temperament:

The Indian Spitz is an easy-going dog which adapts to all kinds of living conditions in India. They therefore adapt easily to life in the city or in the countryside.

The Indian Spitz is a social, friendly dog who is loyal towards his human family, showing his joy at being with them with high-pitched barking. He gets on well with children in the home and because he isn't aggressive, he gets on well with pets in the home too.

He is intelligent which means that he is able to be trained and socialized, turning him into an obedient pet who takes his job as guardian and protector seriously.

formosan mountain dog puppy - descriptionThe Formosan Mountain Dog that was seen during Dr. Sung Yung-yi’s research is a medium-sized dog, athletic and fit. It has a deep chest and a slim waist. The ears are half-covered, the nose is black and there is a coating of black on the tongue. This black tongue is the most distinguishing attribute of the Formosan Mountain Dog. The breed has a strong jaw, the skull that is just slightly longer than the muzzle, which is flat and tapered, triangle face and almond eyes. They have a thick coat and upright, curved tail.

The dogs are known to be extremely agile with an ability to hop that is rare in dogs but helps when hunting animals like rats. The Formosan Mountain Dogs hunted in packs with each dog attacking the prey with one bite until it was too exhausted to fight them off any longer.

Characteristics

indian spitz dog - characteristicsPlayful, feisty, intelligent, loving and loyal, the Indian Spitz is full of character and just loves being in a loving family home.

Easy to train, he becomes a wonderfully obedient canine friend who loves nothing more than to spend time with you, especially when it is outdoors going for a walk or playing ball.

He is an entertaining little dog too, and anyone wishing to buy a dog like this won't regret it as he brings in a joyful dimension to any home.

Children friendliness

formosan mountain dog dog - characteristicsThe Formosan Mountain Dog is very child-friendly. He is affectionate and loyal to his family and protective of his children.

Special talents

He is intelligent and has exceptional hunting skills. He is a good guard dog due to his alertness, but they can be fear-aggressive.

Adaptability

He is very adaptable to living in any location as long as there is somewhere for him to get adequate exercise. He is friendly to people and animals.

Learning ability

He is intelligent and learns quickly.

Health Problems

indian spitz puppies - health problemsThese feisty little dogs can reach 14 years of age if looked after well.

Your Indian Spitz will need to see a vet when he is 6 weeks of age for his first vaccinations and also whenever he is sick.

He is a dog breed that doesn't get sick very easily, but still it is wise to know about some of the more common dog diseases that could plague your little pet, and these are among others, hip dysplasia, epilepsy, cancer and vision- and dental problems.

Dental Disease:

It is important to be keeping an eye on your dog's oral health. Infected teeth can have a bad impact on his health and can actually contribute to heart- and kidney disease for instance.

One of the major causes of dental disease in dogs is none other than diet. Always try to feed your pet the best quality food there is. Certainly if you feel your pet isn't getting the best food, try a probiotic supplement as this can create a healthy bacterial environment in your dog’s mouth.

Check your pet's mouth regularly so you can attend to any dental problem before it gets out of hand.

formosan mountain dog puppies - health problemsBecause there have not been any studies done on the health of the Formosan Mountain Dog, there is not a lot known about any inherent or genetic health issues. It would seem that some bloodlines are healthy, and others have some serious issues. Especially because there are no studies, it is important for breeders to test for eye issues and skeletal issues through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals and the Canine Eye Registration Foundation.

Some of the health issues the Formosan Mountain Dog might be susceptible to.

  1. Dysplasia: Hip and/or Elbow
  2. Can cause lameness and/or arthritis
  3. Luxating Patella
  4. Floating or dislocated kneecap
  5. PRA – Progressive Retinal Atrophy
  6. Degeneration of the retina – causes blindness
  7. Cataracts
  8. Can be removed/causes sight issues or blindness
  9. Mange Demodex/Demodicosis/Demodectic
  10. Caused by mites and can be treated

Caring The Pet

Diet:

indian spitz dogs - caringThese dogs have been used to a diet of milk and rice, but if possible it can be beneficial to the dog to include some cooked chicken and vegetables too. Raw meat is also important, but it is expensive, so just adding it in from time to time can still be beneficial. Water which is cool and clean should be available to the dog day and night, non-stop.

Grooming:

Your Spitz dog will simply require a brush twice a week to keep it clean and vibrant and free from loose hairs. While brushing him, make a point of checking him for fleas and ticks as well.

Exercise:

This is a busy little dog that wants to involved in everything you're busy with. He will love to join you in your long walks each day or if you take him to the park, he will love the chance to run off his leash.

Feeding the puppy

formosan mountain dog dogs - caringFeed a high-quality puppy food for medium size dogs at the rate of a ¼ cup twice a day until 8 months then ½ to ¾ twice a day until 12-16 months.

Feeding the adult

1 to 2 cups of high-quality dry food split into 2 meals per day.

Points for Good Health

Generally healthy breed. Keep clean and watch for mites.

Games and Exercises

This is an energetic breed and he needs a lot of exercise. He must have at least an hour of exercise daily but the more, the better. He loves swimming and jogging with his people. He’s athletic, smart and agile. He does well with field trials, tracking, agility, and obedience.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Indian Spitz vs Danish Swedish Farmdog - Breed Comparison
  2. Irish Jack Russell vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  3. Lancashire Heeler vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  4. Miniature Siberian Husky vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  5. Telomian vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  6. Turnspit Dog vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  7. Pomeranian vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  8. Maltese vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  9. Pug vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  10. Maltipoo vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  11. Jack Russell Terrier vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  12. Miniature Schnauzer vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  13. Mal-Shi vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  14. Papillon vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  15. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  16. Japanese Chin vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  17. Miniature English Bulldog vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  18. Miniature Dachshund vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  19. Lhasa Apso vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  20. Miniature Poodle vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  21. Japanese Spitz vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  22. Italian Greyhound vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  23. Rat Terrier vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  24. Scottish Terrier vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  25. Malti-Pom vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  26. French Spaniel vs Formosan Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  27. Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever vs Formosan Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  28. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Formosan Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  29. Formosan Mountain Dog vs East Siberian Laika - Breed Comparison
  30. Formosan Mountain Dog vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  31. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Flat-Coated Retriever - Breed Comparison
  32. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Finnish Spitz - Breed Comparison
  33. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Ariegeois - Breed Comparison
  34. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Beagador - Breed Comparison
  35. Formosan Mountain Dog vs English Water Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  36. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Field Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  37. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Artois Hound - Breed Comparison
  38. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Curly Coated Retriever - Breed Comparison
  39. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  40. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  41. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  42. Shikoku vs Formosan Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  43. Slovakian Hound vs Formosan Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  44. Small Munsterlander vs Formosan Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  45. Sussex Spaniel vs Formosan Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  46. Kooikerhondje vs Formosan Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Welsh Springer Spaniel vs Formosan Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  48. West Siberian Laika vs Formosan Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  49. Wetterhoun vs Formosan Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  50. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon vs Formosan Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds