Finnish Spitz

Photo with thanks to Sue, www.subrinian-finnish-spitz.co.uk

Finnish Spitz Breeders & Puppies For Sale If your a Finnish Spitz breeder and have Finnish Spitz puppies for sale, send us your details for free and we will add to our Finnish Spitz Breeders page.

Finnish Spitz Rescue Center Visit the Finnish Spitz rescue centers if your looking to rescue a Finnish Spitz, as well as learn more about the breed or just support the rescue centers for there hard work.

Group Hounds (KC)

Origin / History The Finnish Spitz is thought to have originated a few thousand years ago, and is said to have descended from the Spitz-type dogs of the Finno-Ugrian people in Central Russia. When these people migrated to the west, they brought their dogs along with them and these dogs mingled with old European Spitz-type dogs. One part of the tribe that moved west, the Proto-Finnic tribe, then moved to Finland, where they lived along with their dogs. Since these dogs rarely had contact with other dogs, they were considered pure. The first documentations of this breed's existence was done by De La Martiniere, a French explorer in the 1870s.

This breed is named in 1979 as Finland's national dog, and some patriotic songs in Finland even mention these dogs. The American Kennel Club bestowed recognition upon this breed in 1987. Nowadays, these dogs are relatively popular in the United States, Canada, New Zealand, Holland, Sweden, and Australia. Owners consider these dogs to be good family companions.

Appearance These dogs are medium-sized and have square builds. They possess double coats, which is composed of a dense, soft undercoat, and a harsh, long outer coat. On these dogs' necks, backs of thighs, backs, and tail plumes, their coats are denser and stiffer. They also have shorter coats on their legs and heads. They sport fox-like expressions, curved tails that swish from side to side, and small, erect ears.

Colours These dogs are born black, dark grey, brown, or fawn. Their true color does not show until they are around four months old, and even then, their color can change. The adult Finnish Spitz should be red. Shades of red from pale honey to dark chestnut are accepted, although their coats should not be only one solid color. The undercoats of these dogs must not be white, but should be lighter than their outer coats. These dogs can also have white markings on their toes and chests, although this is not desirable.

Temperament Dogs of this breed are active, lively, and friendly. They get along well with children, often playing with them and these dogs will simply walk away when the playing gets too rough. These dogs can also live with other household animals, although their hunting instinct might cause them to chase small animals. This breed loves spending time with its family and being a part of family activities. However, since these dogs are sensitive, they are not recommended for families where there is harshness, tension, or loud bickering.

Height and Weight They are 41 - 51 cm in height and 14 - 16 Kg in weight

Common Health Problems These dogs are healthy and hardy, although like other dogs, they can be afflicted with progressive retinal atrophy and hip dysplasia.

Living Conditions Since these dogs will be relatively inactive when kept indoors, they should be provided with a yard wherein they can run around and do some activities. They prefer living in cool climates and can be kept inside apartments.

Exercise Requirements These dogs need to be exercised on a daily basis. Owners should make sure that they take these dogs out on long walks daily. These dogs also make great jogging companions.

Training Requirements Since these dogs are intelligent, strong-willed, and independent, they cannot be bullied. Owners must train their dogs using positive reinforcement methods that are employed with firmness and gentleness. Due to the fact that these dogs can easily get bored, training sessions must be interesting and short.

Life Expectancy The life spans of these dogs range from around 12 to 15 years.

Grooming Since the coats of these dogs are self-cleaning, they are easy to groom. Owners just have to comb and brush their dogs' coats regularly in order to remove dead hair. More attention should be given to grooming when the dogs are shedding.

Famous Examples

CompleteDogsGuide Comment

Breeders Comments: Send us yours comments, advice for owners, potential owners etc.

Owners Comments: Send us any of your comments. Thanks in advance.

More Finnish Spitz Information: Check out our Finnish Spitz Clubs and links to more informative websites dedicated to the breed.

Submit your Finnish Spitz pictures Send us any pics of your Finnish Spitz, let us know there name and age and any other details. We'll add to this page. Contact us

Photo with thanks to Sue, www.subrinian-finnish-spitz.co.uk
Red