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Finnish Spitz Dog Breed
The Finnish Spitz is a medium-size, all-purpose hunting dog whose origins can be traced back to natural dogs that can be still found in the northern parts of Finland and Russian Karelia. In Finland, this dog is often referred to as the Finnish Barking Bird Dog. The Finnish Spitz makes an important part of the Finnish culture and is very popular with hunters in the rural areas for his keen nose, excellent tracking ability and intelligence. The breed was salvaged from extinction in the late 1890's through dedicated efforts of a few Finnish enthusiasts.
In his native country, the Finnish Spitz is known for a great devotion and loyalty to his family and courage. It is still considered a working dog and has been used for centuries to bark-point game in dense forests. Finnish Spitz dogs make good guard and watchdogs. The breed is very popular in other Scandinavian countries. In the field, when it pinpoints a bird in a tree, it yodels at it until the hunters arrive. The yodelling is very fast barking and there are claims that the Finnish Spitz can reach speed of 160 barks per minute, hence its nickname of the Barking Bird Dog. The Finnish Spitz has become a popular companion dog and was once called "the ideal dog for people who like cats". Its rich, fluffy coat of chestnut red or red-gold color has a soft cream colored undercoat. The tail has abundant feathering and curls upward or sideways. The Finnish Spitz is quite vocal and likes to wander which comes from their hunting manner.
Photo courtesy of Sukunimi Kennel
Finnish Spitz Breed Outline
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Country of Origin: | Finland |
| FCI Classification: |
Group 5- Spitz and primitive types; Nordic Hunting Dogs |
| FCI Official Name | Suomenpystykorva (Finnish Spitz); other common names: Finkie |
| Utilization: | Hunting dog, guard and watchdog |
| AKC Classification: | Non-Sporting Group |
| Personality: | Active and friendly, lively and eager, faithful, brave but cautious. A little reserved towards strangers but never vicious. |
| Size Category: | Small/Medium |
| Height: | 16.5-18.5 inches at shoulders |
| Colors: |
Varying shades of golden-red ranging from pale honey to deep auburn are allowed, so long as the color is bright and clear. The undercoat is a paler color. White markings on the tips of the toes and a narrow white strip on the forechest are permitted. Puppies may have a good many black hairs which decrease with age. |
| Average Litter Size: | 4 |
| Life Span: | 10-12 years |
| Grooming Requirements: |
The Finnish Spitz has a naturally dirt-proof coat which only requires brushing when moulting. No bathing required at all. These dogs are very clean and practically have 'doggy odor'. |
| Shedding: | Moderate, seasonal |
| Social skills: | The Finnish Spitz gets along with other small animals. |
| Suitability for Children: | Being sweet-natured and playful, they make wonderful companions for children. |
| Exercise Needs: | A minimum 40 minute walk is a must, but these dogs will take all the exercise that you can provide. |
| Train Ability: | This is a very intelligent and easy to housebreak breed. |
| Health & Behavior Issues: | Diabetes mellitus, hip dysplasia |
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