About The Project
Temperament
The ideal temperament is a friendly, handler-oriented, trainable, moderately active dog that is willing to have lazy days. Simply put, an easy pet that doesn't need to be worked to settle. Mental stability, ease of socialization, and a "bombproof" demeanor are top goals that come before physical type.
Personality-wise, the goal is to retain the spitz personality and zest for life, but with added biddability.
What breeds are involved?
Both litters to date are from Papillon studs with Kestrel as the dam. Kestrel is 75% Husky and 25% Sheltie. These are the first two litters of the project, other breeds will be added as needed to reach project goals.
There is one breeding prospect, Magpie, still being grown out, pending temperament and health testing. She is 50% Norwegian Elkhound, 25% Siberian Husky, and 25% German Shepherd.
How many of the current dogs will be bred?
We don’t know for certain, as we will wait for maturity and clearances to make a decision. Most of the pups are co-owns, or being kept intact in hopes of contributing to the project, and all have different qualities to lend to future litters.
Will there be health testing?
All breeding dogs will be tested for relevant conditions, according to their breed or mix, at minimum all dogs will have a genetic panel, eye exam, and joint X-rays. Testing results are featured in each dog's album.
What is the current litter like?
Pretty close to project goals! A few of the pups are a bit barky, a few are more laid back. They are great little dogs full of sass and fun, and still great at settling. Some are super cuddly, others come for a cuddle and then move away to sleep. They’ve all been great with other dogs. They have varying degrees of aloofness, but all are accepting of a friendly stranger.
What is the energy level of the current pups like?
So far the Lepidopteras are great! Even in their “terrible teens” they are all super easy to manage even when working full time.
Do they have sport potential?
Depends on the pup. Several owners plan on doing sports with them and so far they seem like they are up to the task! We will know more once they are old enough to compete and earn titles.
Why crossbreed instead of breeding purebreds?
While various breeds may look similar to the goal for Vulpine Spitz, none of them are exactly what we are aiming for in temperament and personality traits. The most similar breeds are often inaccessible to the casual owner (because they are rare breeds) or only similar in looks and not temperament. While other breeds are amazing for some people, they aren’t the goal of the project.