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The Finnish Spitz, or Finsk Spets, is the national dog of Finland. They are an independent, reserved, cautious and sometimes aloof breed. As they were bred to be hunters, they need to be kept in a secure fenced yard or else they may go off on a hunting expedition. Finnish Spitzes are sensitive and strong minded, but also loyal to their human family. They especially love being with children.
Other Names: Suomenpystykorva, Finsk Spets
Height: 15 - 20 inches
Weight: 31 - 34 lbs.
Colors: Reddish-brown, red gold on back, preferably bright; lighter shades permissible on the underside.
Coat: Short and close on head and front of legs, longer on body and back of legs, semi-erect and stiff on neck and back.
Temperament: Finnish Spitz are lively, vocal
With Children: Yes, delightful with children.
With Pets: Yes
Special Skills: Hunting dog for birds and family pet.
Watch-dog: High
Guard-dog: Medium
Care and Exercise: The Finnish Spitz double coat should be brush once or twice a week, more when shedding. They do not have a doggy odor and should only be bathed when necessary. Enjoys short daily walks, but loves the outdoors and the ability to run free.
Training: Requires patience and understanding when training as they have a tendency to be stubborn. Need to be trained not to bark incessantly.
Learning Rate: High
Activity: High
Living Environment: Does the best in the country but will adapt to city or apartment living if sufficient exercise is given. Owners should desire an independent dog.
Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, luxating patellas
Life Span: 12 - 14 years
Litter Size: 3 - 6
Country of Origin: Finland
History: Once used as to hunt bear and elk by the Finns, they were called the Finnish Hunting Dog as well as the Barking Bird Dog. Now the Finnish Spitz is used to hunt grouse and other game birds. Related to the Russian Laika, the breed originated in the eastern area of Finland.
First Registered by the AKC: 1991
AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group
Class: Non-Sporting
Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 5), KC (GB), UKC
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