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Finnish spitz

Veterinarian Reviewed on December 22, 2007 by Dr. Janice Huntingford

Physical Characteristics

Finnish Spitz.jpg

Breed Group:
Northern and AKC Non-Sporting Group.

Weight:
31-35 pounds (14-16 kg).

Height:
15-20 inches (38-51 cm) at the withers.

Color(s):
Shaded red-gold coat that varies from pale honey to chestnut. With its pale and soft undercoat, this dog seems to glow.

Coat:
The Finnish Spitz has a fox-like look and a double coat. The soft undercoat consists of short dense hair. The straight guard hairs are harsh and stiff and measure 1-2 inches. The hair on the head is short.

Overview

Character:
The intelligent Finnish Spitz has refined behaviour. This loyal and curious breed is often protective. The Finnish Spitz is quite vocal and will bark whether to call every visitor or event.

Country of Origin:
Originally migrated from Central Russia to present Finland, where it is the National Dog.

History:
About 2,000 years ago, the Finnish Spitz accompanied hunting tribes from the Volga River area to Finland. The Finnish Spitz played various roles from camp followers to watchdogs to hunting dogs.

Name:
Also known as Finsk Spets “Barking Bird Dog” of Finland, and Suomenpystykorva “Finnish Cock-Eared Dog.” Its nickname is Finkie.

Temperament:
Brave, independent and stubborn, yet follows orders well. The Finnish Spitz follows a dominance hierarchy with some males being aggressive. While devoted to one person, this breed exercises caution with strangers. This is an alert and active breed that vocalizes very well and can make a good watchdog.

Care:

Training:
Training a Finnish Spitz requires a soft voice and touch. Short, consistent sessions handled with patience and understanding will likely help. Some breeds are prized for their barking qualities, quite suitable for a watchdog. Yet the active, barking companion can annoy neighbours.

Activity:
This breed requires much exercise, whether romping in a fenced yard or jogging. As a hunting dog in Finland, the Finnish Spitz locates birds and barks.

Ownership:
With a life span of 12-15 years, this dog makes a good estate or family pet. As a breed noted for its barking, the Finnish Spitz will not make a quiet companion. It can live inactively in an apartment provided that the owner ensures plenty of outside exercise. The Finnish Spitz makes an affectionate and attentive pet that needs social contact. When around other dogs, it may seem shy/aggressive. This clean breed tolerates a cold climate. The Finnish Spitz loves eating and may suffer from weight problems. This is also a manipulative breed and may even train its owners.

Breeders:

No breeders listed at this time.

List of dog breeds

Read also: Pudelpointer
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Our Expert

Dr. Janice Huntingford
Janice Huntingford, DVM, has been in veterinary practice for over 30 years and has founded two veterinary clinics since receiving her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph. She has studied extensively in both conventional and holistic modalities. Ask Dr. Jan

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