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Finnish Spitz

The Finnish Spitz is a medium sized breed that is alert and can be highly vocal. They are the national dog of Finland.


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Breed Facts
Active:
Paw
Paw
Paw
Affectionate:
Paw
Paw
Friendly:
Paw
Pet Friendly:
Paw
Paw
Paw
Protective:
Paw
Paw
Paw
Physical Characteristics
  • Golden-red to honey-colored double coat; some may have small white markings
  • Coat: Thick and medium-length hair with thick under-layer of straight hair
  • Black nose and lips
  • Dark almond-shaped eyes
  • Erect pointed ears
  • Plumed tail curled up over the back and down one side
  • Height: 15-20 inches
  • Weight: 31-36 pounds
  • Average lifespan: 12-15 years
Temperament
  • Inquisitive, lively, alert, playful, sensitive, loyal, sensitive
  • Interaction with people: Good with children; wary of strangers. Tends to be devoted to one family member
  • Interaction with animals: Good with other pets. Males can be aggressive toward other dogs
  • Bark: Can be highly vocal
  • Protection: Good watchdog, very protective
Medical Conditions
  • Generally healthy breed
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
  • OK for apartments
  • Needs daily exercise
  • Prefers cool climates
  • Excellent jogging companion
Grooming
  • Heavy shedder seasonally
  • Self-cleaning coat (like most Arctic dogs)
  • Regular grooming with brush and comb is necessary to remove dead hair
  • No dog odor
Other Facts
  • National dog of Finland
  • Called the "barking bird dog" of Finland
  • Has been known to bark up to 160 times a minute
  • Mentioned in several Finnish patriotic songs
Breed History
  • Native to Finland
  • Origins trace back several thousand years to era when Finno-Ugarian people inhabited central Russia
  • Finnish spitz were mated with other breeds until 1880 when they were nearly extinct
  • The breed was rescued by two sportsmen from Helsinki hunting in the Northern Forests
  • Recognized in 1892 by the Finnish Kennel Club
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the Finnish Spitz Club of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit Finnish Spitz National Rescue