Read About Finnish Spitz

Finnish Spitz the barking dog of Finland that looks like a fox. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Finnish Spitz Summary:

1. Size:

   Medium sized dog

2. Weight:

   25-30 lbs

3. Coat:

   This breed has a double coat. The topcoat is short and thick and the undercoat is long and straight.

4. Shedding:

   Heavy shedding

5. Temperament:

   Very friendly brave and lively.

6. Obedience:

   Moderately obedient.

7. Ease of Training:

   Average ease of training.

8. Way with Children:

   This breed is good with children.

Finnish Spitz -- Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Non-Sporting/ 1988

2. Size & Weight:

   15-1/2 to 20 inches, 31-35 lbs.

3. Coat:

   The shading of the coat, which is red and gold, distinguishes it from most breeds. Young Finnish spitz has a lot of black hairs in the coat, but most of which will disappear leaving a few strains in the tail.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   A muscular head which appears fox-like. The muzzle is narrow and equal from the front and back angles, but pointed. The ears are erect and pointed.

5. Body:

   The squared body shaped body is muscular and symmetrically balanced. The tail sets high and curves forward to a tight curl.

6. Colors:

   The colors range from golden red, pale honey and deep auburn.

7. Life Expectancy:

   13-15 years

8. Popularity:

   Extremely popular in Scandinavia and has become a popular family pet.

9. Habitat:

   This dog can adjust to all climates and will make a good housedog. They are not happy in homes with tension, harshness or loud bickering. Because they need plenty of exercise they can adapt to a fenced area.

Finnish Spitz -- Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Finland

2. Historical Information:

   This breed is the national dog of Finland almost becoming extinct. It has been traced back in history to the Spitz breed several thousand years ago. The Suomenpystykorva people have been known to have these dogs, which lived, in the backwoods. This breed had isolated itself and remained a very pure breed. The Finnish Spitz is a great hunting dog,

Finnish Spitz -- Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   The Finnish Spitz is protective, loyal and brave.

2. Behavior:

   This breed matures very slowly, but is faithful and devoted to its owner. It is easily bored with repetitive training because of its high level of intelligence. They may be aggressive, have keen hearing and love the sound of their own voices. These dogs must be taught when to bark.

3. Habits:

   They like to roam and hunt birds. When the prey has been cornered they point, barks, and wave its tail. Puppies do not like to be petted or fondled. But the adults love to play with children. It is a very happy, and clean breed of dog.

Finnish Spitz -- Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Finnish Spitz are normally very healthy and few health issues. They are subject to dysplasia, patellar luxation, elbow dysplasia , and epilepsy and hereditary cataract.

2. Exercise Needs:

   Due to its hunting instinct, it requires daily exercise such as long walks in a safe area.

3. Grooming Needs:

   It has a self-cleaning coat. Regular grooming is necessary to remove dead hair, but they do not have a dog odor. They require brushing at least once a week. Nails should be kept trimmed, ears and teeth cleaned.

4. Travel Needs:

   Make sure that you allow time for exercise when traveling. Do not feed during the trip. Secure the dog in a crate or dog seatbelt for safety purposes. Take along cleaning supplies for accidents that may occur. Contact the lodging facility for any restrictions on pets. Make sure that you have any medications, identification, medical records, leash, collar and food and water.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   They do not get along with other pets and love playing with children.

Finnish Spitz -- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Make sure that you select a reputable breeder and choose a good-tempered dog. When looking at the puppies, check to see if it drags its bottom. Look in their eyes and ears for any infections or parasites. Smell the puppy to see if it has unusual odor. Check the mouth for missing teeth and look closely at the fur for any scars or baldness.

2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:

   New puppies need a lot of attention and love. They will need the proper food to grow. You will need to locate a veterinarian, purchase grooming supplies, identification tag, bedding, a toy for playtime, and a food and water dish. Treats would be good to have to reward for training.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Secure all medications, chemicals and cleaners in lower shelving. Make sure to tightly close all garbage cans. All children toys should be removed from areas accessible to puppies. Little children should be monitored when in the presence of puppies, because they may be bitten accidentally. Remove plants that may be eaten and bundle wiring.