Choosing to add a furry friend to your growing household is a long-term commitment, and picking a breed that fits your lifestyle presents the key to a happy home. With over 160 American Kennel Club-recognized breeds, that decision can seem overwhelming. We’re here to help you meet the breed that’s right for you. If you’re looking for an active breed that gets along well with every member of the family, learn all you need to know about the Finnish Spitz.
- Lively
- Friendly
- Alert
- Sensitive
- Courageous
Overview
The national dog and native of Finland, the Finnish Spitz was bred as a bird hunter. More popular overseas, the beloved Finnie is not as common in the U.S. due to his loud and larger-than-life bark. Sounding more like a yodeler than a dog, the Finnish Spitz was taught to alert his owner with noise when a bird was caught. A great companion, he also makes a wonderful and loving family pet.
Breed standards
- AKC group: Non-sporting
- UKC group: Northern Breed
- Average lifespan: 12 – 15 years
- Average size: 31 – 35 pounds
- Coat appearance: Soft undercoat, harsh outer coat
- Coloration: Red, auburn, honey
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Other identifiers: Square and well-balanced body and frame with a deep chest; resembles a red fox; black nose, lips and black-rimmed eyes; catlike feet and hairy tail that curls upward
- Possible alterations: Born with a darker coat that gets lighter as he gets older
Is this breed right for you?
Getting along well with other animals and children, the Finnish Spitz is an awesome addition to families. Regardless of his loud bark, the breed is well-suited to apartment life if given daily exercise and walks. Preferring the indoors, a small yard will do just fine for this dog. It’s best that the Finnish Spitz receive a good amount of leadership and training from his owner to avoid poor behavioral traits. Do not let him believe he’s the dominant member of the household or he’ll act negatively. In addition, this dog requires a good amount of grooming and is a normal shedder.
A dream day in the life of a Finnish Spitz
A sweet and mild-tempered dog, he may wake you up with a bark if he hears something out of the ordinary. Spending his day inside with the family, the Finnish Spitz will be happy to let the kiddos roll about and roughhouse with him. Playing quietly with his toys, he will bark when he feels he’s protecting the security of his home. Running inside and outside the house, he loves to use his doggie door. Going for a short walk when you return home, he’ll be happy to end his day in the comfort of his family.
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