Finnish Spitz

Size: Medium
Other Names: Suomenpystykorva
Country of Origin: Finland
Accreditation:
American Kennel Club (AKC): Non-Sporting
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): Hounds
United Kennel Club (UKC): Northern Breed
Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC): Hounds
The Kennel Club (KC): Hound
Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA): Hound
New Zealand Kennel Club (NZKC): Hound

Height:

Male: 16-19 inches; Female: 14 ½-17 inches

Weight:

Male: 27-33 pounds; Female: 20-27 pounds

Color(s):

Golden-red, ranging from pale honey to a deep auburn; with or without white markings on the tips of his toes, and a quarter-sized spot or narrow white strip on his forechest

Coat:

Double; long, harsh, straight guard hairs measure 1-2 inches on his body, and are stiffer and longer on his neck and back, and much more profuse in males, giving them a more ruffed appearance; short, soft and dense undercoat

Description:

Originating in Finland, the Finnish Spitz is thought to be an old breed, bred as a hunting dog.  He will indicate the position of game by barking to attract the hunter's attention, which is called a "bark pointer".  He has generally been used for treeing game, such as squirrels or grouse, but he has also been used to hunt moose and elk.  Despite his small size, he has even been known to go after a bear.  Finnish Spitz can excel in obedience, agility and rally as a companion dog.

Temperament:

The Finnish Spitz is friendly, loyal, interacts well with people, including children, and makes an excellent house pet.  Although he plays gently with children, he may play more roughly with other dogs.  He makes a good watchdog, due to his tendency to bark at unfamiliar things.  He tends to bark with a purpose, and training can normally control more rare cases of problem barking.

Training:

The Finnish Spitz can be trained to be very obedient with a light touch and positive reinforcement.  Because of his intelligence, he is an independent and strong-willed dog, and is best trained with a soft voice and touch.  He will easily become bored with repetitive training.

Care & Grooming:

The Finnish Spitz should be brushed once or twice a week, and more when shedding.  He only requires bathing when dirty, as he does not have a doggy odor.  He enjoys short daily walks, as well as outdoor time with his human where he can run free.

Shedding:

Moderate; heavier when the undercoat blows.

Health:

Finnish Spitz are generally healthy.  Hip dysplasia and eye issues can appear; keep this active hunter fit and do not let the coat mat during seasonal sheds.

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Litter Size:

3–6 puppies