Finnish Spitz

Finnish Spitz, also known as Suomenpystykorva, is a traditional hunting breed, well-known for its sharp bark and spirited personality. Originating from Finland, this breed is widely recognized as the country’s national dog.

Appearance and Size

The Finnish Spitz presents a fox-like appearance with its pointy ears, bushy tail, and reddish-golden coat. They stand about 15-20 inches tall and weigh between 20-33 pounds, making them a medium-sized dog with a robust and agile physique.

Character and Temperament

Known for their friendly and lively temperament, Finnish Spitz dogs are highly sociable with humans and they can fully participate in family life. Though they can be quiet and reserved at times, they are also known for their high energy levels and sharp alertness, making them excellent watchdogs.

Trainability and Behavior

The Finnish Spitz is an intelligent breed and with patient, consistent training, they can learn new commands and tricks quickly. However, being strong-willed and independent, they may show stubbornness during sessions. Therefore, training methods should focus on positive reinforcement. Their tendency to be vocal can also be managed with proper training.

Health and Lifespan

Finnish Spitz dogs are generally healthy and robust with a typical lifespan of 12-14 years. Nonetheless, they can be prone to some breed-specific health issues including canine hip dysplasia and patellar luxation. Regular vet check-ups and a balanced diet can help maintain their overall well-being.

Fun Fact

One unique characteristic of a Finnish Spitz is their bark. This breed has a wide range of vocalisations, and this 'bark vocabulary' can often have different meanings depending on the situation. It is an intrinsic behaviour inherited from their hunting days in Finland.