Finnish Spitz Dog
Loyal, Yet Independent!
Background And Description:
The Finnish Spitz dog, chosen as the national dog of Finland, was once known as the Finnish Barking Birddog
and is believed to
be quite an old breed dating back for thousands of years. It's physical
appearance depicts features reminiscent of both the fox and the Chow chow.
Some authorities believe its closest ancester is the Laika, a hunting dog
indiginous to Russia, though its major development occurred in Finland where
it was once used to hunt Bear and Elk. Its skills at a barking and pointing
are now primarily used for bird hunting.
The Finnish Spitz has an short sharply pointed upright ears, a square stance
coupled with an athletic appearance finished off with an abundantly plumed
tail curling into his back. His expression is alert and eager.
Appearance:
Weight: 25 to 35 pounds
Height: Ranges between 15 to 20 inches
Coat Colors: The unmistakable brilliant coat is seen in red-gold, or
reddish-brown to deep auburn. White markings may be seen on the toes and on
the chest.
Coat and Care:
The Finnish Spitz dog has a double coat that varies in thickness and color, the
undercoat being lighter and having a glowing appearance. Mainly the coat is
short and dense in the body and around the neck with longer hair on the back
of the thighs and the tail.
Regular brushing is needed to keep the coat well-groomed and free of dead
hairs. Seasonal shedding is heavy. A very popular grooming for keeping the
coat free of dead hair is
the FURminator.
Personality and Traits:
Although this breed has a history of hunting in the outdoors, as family
companions they would much rather be indoors where they can be close to
their "pack". And being inside has its advantages for owners who are trying
to limit the expression of this breed's "famous" vocal abilities to stay on
good terms with their neighbors!
The Finnish Spitz dog is very loyal, playful, cheerful and friendly and enjoys
receiving affection and attention. However, being a very intelligent dog with an
independent streak, he does need a strong leader to guide and train him
with a firm, yet gentle, hand. Patience, creativity and praise and important
words to keep in mind when training this smart dog. It doesn't hurt to have
a few treats in your pocket either, as he enjoys eating, but use them
sparingly as he can gain weight easily too!
Because of this breed's reputation for barking (it's in his genes), teaching
him the difference between OK barking and unprovoked nuisance barking is
something to start early on in his training. Owners report he easily catches
on to the idea of appropriate barking. Aside from that, you might find his ability to also yodel
quite entertaining!
Early
socialization to round out his personality and ward off any potential dog aggressiveness is helpful to the
breed.
This breed has a healthy score card and a lifespan of between 13 to 15 years if he is well nourished and nurtured.
Activity Level:
The Finnish Spitz dog is active and energetic and loves to run freely if
that is a possibility. At a minimum, daily brisk walks should be taken to
keep him in good health both physically and mentally.
Space Needs:
Best suited to a house with a reasonable yard for romping about. An
apartment is not out of the question if adequate exercise is provided and
someone is home to make sure that barking does not become an issue.
Children:
Has a good reputation for being fond of children - patient and happy to play in their
games.
As always, adult supervision is recommended whenever children and pets
interact, no matter what the breed.
Elderly:
The Finnish Spitz dog makes a loyal and loving companion for seniors, being a
good watchdog and enjoying the closeness of its owner.
The need for adequate
exercise as well as an owner who can be a strong leader is an important consideration.
Reading Recommendations:
An excellent guide for those interested in the breed. Provides comprehensive information on breeding
as well as good tips on training. Also includes interesting information about the history of dogs. The book
is lavishly enriched with photographs.
Share Your Finnish Spitz Knowledge
- Do you own a Finnish Spitz dog or have previously owned one?
- Would you like to share what you know about the breed?
- Or, is this breed just one of your favorites and you'd like to make some comments
about this interesting dog?
We invite any and all dog lovers to make a post about this breed, or
their favorite breed and we'll publish your
comments on a webpage along for others to enjoy. We'll even add your name if you'd like the recognition.
Visit
this page where you'll find a
text box to post your comments. You'll also be able to read stories that others have written about their favorite
dogs.
Go on, give it a try!
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