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Finnish Spitz

Finnish Spitz
History:

Country/Date of Origin: Finland/1800s

One of the oldest European breeds of dog, the Finnish Spitz accompanied the early Finns on hunting expeditions. Unlike most members of the spitz family, which hunt larger game, this is primarily a bird dog. If it finds birds, it points at the prey, waving its tail back and forth to mesmerize them. It also will bark loudly to attract the attention of the hunter, giving it the sometimes used name of Barking Bird Dog. In contests it is judged on the number of barks per minute, which can top 160 per minute. Extremely popular in its homeland and the rest of Scandinavia, its good qualities as a housepet have won it fanciers in England and the United States in the last few years as well.

 Other Names Body Type Personality Coat Health Concerns

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Finsk Spets, Barking Bird Dog

AKC Group: Non-Sporting

Breed Club: Finnish Spitz Club of America, Inc.

Rescue Club: Finnish Spitz Rescue Foundation

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Body Type:

  • A typical member of the spitz group with a distinctly foxlike appearance
  • Height: 15-20 inches (at shoulder)
  • Weight: 30-35 pounds
  • The plumed tail is set high and curves forward in a tight curl. It is not altered
  • The ears are erect and sharply pointed. They are not altered

Personality:

  • Happy and lively companion
  • Loves the company of children
  • Intelligent but tends to be strong willed so training can be difficult
  • Noisy

Coat:

  • Dense double coat. Moderately short and harsh outercoat and very thick undercoat
  • The color is red, ranging from reddish brown to red-gold
  • Moderate grooming required
  • Heavy seasonal shedding

Health Concerns:

  • Subject to hip dysplasia
  • Generally quite healthy
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Tasty Tidbits:
  • National Dog of Finland
  • Likes to roam
  • An adorable, cuddly puppy, the Finnish Spitz does not like to be petted and fondled - even as a baby. It is somewhat aloof and a bit reserved