Description

The Finnish Spitz or Finsk Spets is the national dog of Finland. Finnish Spitz are independent, reserved, cautious and sometimes aloof breed. As Finnish Spitz was bred to be a hunter he needs to be kept in a secure fenced yard or he may go off on a hunting expedition. Sensitive and strong minded he is loyal to his human family and loves being with children.

Size of Male: Height: 17.5-20 inches Weight: 31-36 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 15.5-18 inches Weight: 23-29 pounds

Temperament

The Finnish Spitz are brave, friendly, lively and alert. A playful rascal, Finnish Spitz enjoys and demands affection and attention. Finnish Spitz requires patience for obedience training. They are very protective. The Finnish Spitz is renowned as a hunting dog which also makes a great companion for family members of all ages, especially children and older adults. They are slow to mature, only reaching their complete adult form at 3½ to 4 years of age. It is a breed aware of its place in the dominance hierarchy, and some males can try to be domineering and tend to be fairly dog aggressive. Reserved and even somewhat aloof with strangers, but generally good with other pets. This breed is lively and curious, though not overwhelmingly so. They are loyal to their own families but do follow their handler’s orders slavishly. The Finnish Spitz is a dog that requires much patience and understanding, together with a consistent manner. If these elements go into its training it can be a very satisfactory pet. The Finnish Spitz has been bred for centuries to emphasize the barking behavior. He also makes many other vocalizations, so if a lot of noise will drive you crazy, don’t get one of these dogs. The barking can particularly be a problem if the dog must stay outside for any length of time, as he will bark with each and every new event.

Living Conditions

The Finnish Spitz will do ok in an apartment and without a yard provided it gets enough exercise. Finnish Spitz is relatively inactive indoors and prefers cool climates. So if you live in an apartment and want to get a Finnish Spitz do make sure you bring it out for socialization and that they get enough exercise.

Upkeep

Finnish Spitz is an active and lively breed that needs daily exercise, either a long walk on leash or a run in a fenced area. As Finnish Spitz is a hunter by nature, care must be taken that he does not go off on a hunt by himself. The Finnish Spitz can live outdoors in temperate and cool climates, but it enjoys living indoors. Its double coat needs brushing one or two times weekly, more often when shedding. It is not oily, so they have little doggy oudor; in fact, the Finnish Spitz is a particularly clean breed.

Health

Major concerns: none

Minor concerns: hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, epilepsy

Life expectancy: 12 – 14 years