The German Spitz Club of America, Inc. (GSCA), the official American Kennel Club (AKC) parent club for the German Spitz, provides these guidelines to help you find a responsible breeder.

You have researched the German Spitz to determine if this breed is a good match for you and your family, and you’re ready for the next step. Finding your next family member can be exciting yet overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure where to begin. We offer some key guidelines and questions to ask potential breeders, along with explanations of their importance. The most crucial advice: choose your breeder, not the puppy. You’ll fall in love with any puppy—that’s guaranteed—but a dog with poor health or temperament can lead to significant time, expense, and heartbreak.

Consider asking a potential breeder these questions:

  • What health testing is done prior to breeding? May I see those test results?
  • Are you a member of the German Spitz Club of America? If not, why?
  • How long have you been a breeder? How long have you been breeding German Spitz?
  • How many litters do you produce each year, and how do you select breedings?
  • Will a puppy be chosen for me? If so, how do you decide?
  • What activities do you participate in with your dogs to get external evaluations?
  • Do you use a contract with a health guarantee? Can I review the terms before committing?
  • Do you require a deposit for a waiting list? Is it refundable if I change my mind or if no litter results?
  • Will I receive an AKC registration application with my puppy? Is spay/neuter required?
  • Do your puppies receive a vet health check, vaccinations, microchip, and deworming? Will I get documentation?
  • What methods do you use to raise puppies for socialization and enrichment?
  • Will you provide written instructions on feeding, care, training, and grooming?

Why Ask These Questions?

Your goal is a healthy, temperamentally sound German Spitz that matches the traits drawing you to the breed. Seek a breeder who supports you long-term, stands behind their dogs, and draws on deep experience for careful, predictable breedings in health and temperament.

Breeder’s Involvement and Experience

The GSCA is the sole AKC-recognized parent club for the German Spitz. Membership in good standing means the breeder adheres to the club’s Code of Ethics (aligned with German standards), including health testing and outcrossing. Non-members may not follow these guidelines—ask why they’re not involved. Responsible breeders often contribute to the club, compete in conformation, performance events, or other activities. This involvement promotes the breed positively, confirms sound dogs, avoids “kennel blindness,” and keeps them informed on breed issues. Visiting a reputable breeder reveals serious commitment: ample supplies, equipment, and awards/ribbons from events.

Health Concerns

Select a breeder who tests prospective parents. While no puppy is guaranteed issue-free, testing screens for common concerns. The code of ethics requires dogs be examined for hip dysplasia, luxating patellas, elbow dysplasia, eye defects, and missing teeth. It is also recommended that dogs be tested using a multi-gene test for potential health defects (vWF type 1 and albinism). Moreover, it is required that dogs not be bred too young or too often, and that they are bred taking into consideration genetic diversity (no inbreeding or tight linebreeding, which has been shown to be associated with immune dysfunction by researchers such as the University of California at Davis. Detailed info on these can be found through OFA or breed resources. The GSCA emphasizes health testing per its Code of Ethics. Responsible breeders provide details on testing; some achieve certifications. Check the GSCA breeder listing for members who meet standards.

Breeder’s Knowledge

Ask how they select pairs—this reveals pedigree knowledge, breeding rationale, and awareness of health issues. Not every dog should breed; avoid those with major faults. Serious breeders evaluate potential owners: lifestyle, home, past pet experience. They prioritize good matches to avoid returns. Expect spay/neuter for pets; breeding rights require close cooperation and meeting requirements. This protects the breed’s future.Puppy Socialization and Enrichment
Inquire about raising practices. Ideal: puppies in a busy home area (not isolated barns/garages) with constant mental, physical, environmental, and social stimulation from early on. Exposure to noises, people, textures, surfaces, and household routines builds confident adults. If visits aren’t possible pre-commitment, ask detailed questions and investigate thoroughly.

Contracts

Understand the contract and health guarantee before committing. Expect a clear written agreement outlining both parties’ responsibilities, with options if issues arise. Receive a signed copy and written care instructions. The breeder should remain a lifelong resource. Breeding quality puppies demands immense effort—”breeding is not for wimps.” Reputable breeders avoid shortcuts and support informed decisions. Always prioritize health, ethics, and long-term commitment for your German Spitz companion.