Finnish Spitz were initially bred to track down and bark at a wide variety of prey, both large and tiny. These days, people look for "talkative" companions because they want to know about everything happening around them.
These dogs are full of life and love to play, but they need continuous, tough training. They have a tendency to wander off, so that could be challenging, and they need a strong fence around their yard because they are constantly barking at and chasing after people and animals who pass by. An friendly, lively companion who acts like a puppy even into old age is possible if you can provide for the breed's specific demands. Read up on everything there is to know about Finnish Spitzes!
Highlights
- Finnish Spitz are high-energy, active dogs who need a lot of daily playtime.
- There is a solid reason why these dogs are known as Bark Pointers. They're constantly barking because it makes them happy. Unless you have very tolerant neighbors, you should start training them young to stop barking on demand!
- Never leave your Finnish Spitz outside alone in a dangerous place, as they are a breed bred for hunting. A yard with a fence is essential.
- If not properly trained from a young age, a Finnish Spitz left outside alone for lengthy periods of time may bark at everything it sees.
- Until the age of three or four, a Finnish Spitz's mind is still immature, and the dog may still act like a puppy.
- Hunting dogs, as a breed, have a tendency toward individualism, which might give them the impression of being obstinate. The same applies to Finnish Spitz dogs. However, if you take the time to understand the appropriate training techniques and incentives, you will be impressed with your dog's intellect and readiness to learn.
- Finnish Spitz are often friendly to other family pets, but can be violent with strange dogs.
- It's common for dogs of this breed to be reserved and wary of new people. They won't keep intruders out of your house very effectively, but they will give you a heads up if someone comes near with their barking.
- Treats are Finnish Spitz's favorite food. They are prone to obesity because they are manipulative and strive to gain as many treats as possible from their owners. You might try feeding them something healthy like a vegetable or something low in fat.
- Never purchase a Finnish Spitz from a pet store, a puppy mill, or a breeder who does not give health checks and warranties. Find a breeder that takes the time to make sure her breeding dogs are clear of any hereditary illnesses they could pass on to the puppies and who breeds for healthy, happy dispositions.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
It's a common misconception that a little dog is better suited to living in a limited space. Many tiny dogs have too much energy and are too yappy to live in an apartment building. An apartment dog's best attributes include being quiet, low energy, somewhat peaceful indoors, and respectful to the other inhabitants. Your dog's personal space in your apartment can be improved by purchasing one of these fantastic dog cages.
Sensitivity Level
Depending on the dog, a strong rebuke can be taken in stride by some, while others regard even the tiniest hint of disapproval as a personal attack. If you have a loud or pushy owner, a chaotic home, or a routine that is unpredictable or variable, your low-sensitivity dog, often known as "easy-going," "tolerant," "resilient," or even "thick-skinned," will be able to handle it better. Do you have young children, host a lot of parties, or have a hectic lifestyle? Choose a dog that isn't overly sensitive.
Intensity
You can't tell from looking at them whether or not they're hyperactive, but when they do anything, they do it vigorously. They tug at their leashes (unless you teach them not to), they push their way through barriers, and they down their meals in huge, gobbling gulps. A home with young children or an elderly or feeble person may not be the best place for these dynamos to learn proper etiquette. On the other side, a dog with poor vitality adopts a more reserved demeanor.
Potential for Playfulness
The playful nature of certain dogs never fades away, and they're always ready for a game, whereas the reserved and serious tendencies of other dogs develop through time. Think about how many times a day you want to play fetch or tag with your dog, and whether or not you have children or other dogs who can act as substitutes.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
In the same way as working dogs, such as those that herd sheep, are bred for intelligence and decision-making, working dogs like those who run all day need to exercise their bodies. The two most common activities that a bored pet engages in are digging and chewing, both of which require mental stimulation. There are several ways to keep a dog's brain active, including obedience training, interactive dog toys like tug of war, and dog sports like agility and search and rescue.
Energy Level
Energy-draining dogs are always on the lookout for a new activity. There are several jobs that require a lot of stamina from dogs, such as herding livestock or recovering prey for hunters. Children are more likely to engage in activities such as jumping, playing and exploring new sights and smells as a result of this change in their environment
A low-energy dog is more like a couch potato than a dog that needs a lot of exercise. Think about your level of physical activity and whether or not you find a hyperactive dog irritating before making your final choice.
Easy To Train
Easy to train dogs can more easily form associations between a cue (like "sit"), an action (like sitting), and a reward than dogs that are more difficult to train. Dogs that require more time, patience, and repetition are more difficult to train.
Getting your dog interested in training will require incentives and games because many breeds are intelligent but have a "What's in it for me?" mentality when it comes to learning new things.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Since puppyhood, some breeds remain aloof and independent; others form deep bonds with one individual but are uninterested in the rest of the family; still other types shower their entire family with affection. Canines raised in homes with people tend to be more open to human interaction and develop stronger ties, regardless of their breed or upbringing.
Kid-Friendly
Kids-friendly dogs are calm, strong enough to bear the hefty hugs and pets kids can dish out, and have an unfazed attitude about rushing, scream-inducing children. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking Both Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are regarded as family dogs (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, which are small, sensitive, and potentially sharp, are not always family-friendly.
Dog Friendly
Dog friendship and human friendship are two entirely different things. The fact that a dog is friendly with humans doesn't mean it's immune to aggression or aggression from other dogs; some canines choose to play rather than fight; others will just run away. The type of animal isn't the only consideration. Dogs who have spent a lot of time playing with their littermates and their mother at the age of six to eight weeks are more likely to be socially competent.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
Having a dog in the house means that you'll have to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothing and in the home. It's worth noting, however, that shedding varies widely among breeds. Some dogs shed all year long, while others ``blow" just during specific times of the year, and still others don't shed at all. If you're a stickler for cleanliness, you'll need to choose a breed that sheds less or lower your expectations. You can use a deshedding tool to keep your house a little cleaner.
Drooling Potential
While greeting you, some dogs may cover their arms with ropes of drool and create large, wet patches on your clothing. If you don't mind a little drool, go for it; but if you're a stickler for cleanliness, you may want to look for a dog with a low drool rating.
Easy To Groom
Some breeds of dogs can simply be brushed and left alone, while others require frequent washing, trimming, and other grooming in order to maintain their health and appearance. If you don't have the time or money to take care of a dog that requires a lot of grooming, you may want to look into hiring a professional.
Exercise Needs
Evening walks around the neighborhood are perfectly acceptable for some breeds. Others, particularly those trained for physically demanding vocations like herding or hunting, require regular, rigorous exercise.
They can gain weight and release their pent-up energy in ways you don't like, including barking, chewing, and digging, if not given enough exercise. Those looking to train their dog for an energetic canine activity, such as agility, should consider getting a dog that needs a lot of exercise.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Height:
15 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder
Weight:
20 to 35 pounds
Life Span:
12 to 15 years
History
The Finnish Spitz is descended from northern spitz dogs that migrated with ancient Finno-Ugrian peoples to Finland. These canines most likely began their lives as camp companions and guard dogs before evolving into hunting hounds. Until the early 1800s, the breed was able to stay unaltered not because of any conscious effort but because of its seclusion. The pure Finnish Spitz was nearly wiped off by interbreeding when new groups of people brought their dogs to the area in the 1800s.
Two Finnish sportsmen in the late 1800s were so taken by the appearance of a group of dogs that had clearly not been interbred that they set out to save the dwindling breed. The breed was once known by the titles Suomenpystykorva (Finnish Cock-Eared Dog) and Finnish Barking Bird Dog. Its original name in England was the Finsk Spets (a corruption of its Swedish name), but in 1891 it was officially renamed the Finnish Spitz. Following its introduction to England in the 1920s, the species was given the moniker "Finkie" due to its cute appearance. American Finkie breeding didn't get started until the 1960s. The year 1988 marks the official acceptance of the breed into the Non-Sporting Group.
Personality and Temperament
The Finnish spitz is a social and sociable house pet. The dog is devoted to his family, friendly to both children and other animals, and both lively and patient with them.
The Finnish spitz is not an aggressive breed of dog, but he is wary of strangers and may bark to warn residents if one happens to wander into the neighborhood.
The Finkie is more hunting-oriented than other spitz breeds, but they still retain the independence and stubbornness that characterizes other spitz varieties. They have a high level of awareness and curiosity, are lively, and can be quite attached to a single person. Some males of the species, aware of their standing in the dominance order, may attempt to assert themselves.
They are normally tolerant to children and other pets, but could be aggressive toward unfamiliar canines. When it comes to meeting new people, they tend to be reticent and even cold or wary. The Finkie, true to its ancestry, takes great pride in its barking skill and uses it frequently and loudly to express itself.
Care
The Finnish spitz, a breed of energetic dog, needs a lot of exercise. When properly exercised, socialized, and trained, these dogs make wonderful companions. Although their thick double coats don't require clipping, owners should be prepared for substantial shedding twice a year.
Health
The average lifespan of a Finnish Spitz is 12 years. Because of its history as a working breed, it rarely experiences health issues. The UK Kennel Club has designated this breed as Category 1, meaning that it poses no special health risks and requires no special testing before being used in breeding programs. However, the breed is still susceptible to a few illnesses. Among the most typical are:
Hip dislocation (HD)
Hip dysplasia refers to a spectrum of developmental issues and abnormalities that can cause pain and disability in the hips and other joints later in life. Experts examine x-rays of the hips of canines older than a year and provide a grade based on predetermined standards.
Hip dysplasia is less likely to be present if the total score is lower than 106, which is the maximum possible for both hips. Both genetic and environmental variables have a role in the development of hip dysplasia.
Elbow Dysplasia
When the elbow joint does not grow normally, the result is elbow dysplasia, which can later lead to osteoarthritis. This disorder has strong heritable components. Canines are given a score based on the results of x-rays, just like hip-scoring humans. If possible, only dogs with a perfect score of 0 should be used as breeding stock.
Epilepsy
Seizures are brought on by epilepsy, a condition of the neurological system. The causes of seizures are not always easy to pinpoint, and seizures can range from mild to severe. In most cases, epilepsy can be properly managed with medication.
Patellar Luxation
The kneecap in the stifle or knee of the rear legs is affected by this disorder. Dislocation of the kneecap is a common source of knee pain. Surgery may be required for treatment in extreme situations.
Ocular Problems
Cataracts, glaucoma, and progressive retinal atrophy are not common in Finnish Spitzes in the United Kingdom, but they can be found in the breed in other nations.
Recommended Health Tests
- There are no suggested medical exams
Nutrition
Feed your Finnish spitz only premium dog food that is high in protein and low in fat. When given too many table scraps or snacks, this type of dog can easily gain weight. Feed your dog the age- and size-appropriate kibble they need every day.
Consult your vet about the best way to feed your dog to ensure he or she stays healthy and doesn't gain weight. Your dog's age, size, and level of activity will inform the specifics of the diet you develop together.
Grooming
The Finnish spitz is known for its double coat and heavy annual shedding. Instead of waiting around during shedding season and wasting time vacuuming out clumps of fur, you can hasten the process by brushing your pet thoroughly every day. For help with excessive shedding, consult your groomer. It has been found that certain shampoos are effective in removing loose hairs, so de-shedding baths may be the way to go for you and your furry buddy.
Finkies should only be bathed when necessary and rarely need haircuts. Apart from occasional shedding, this breed requires nothing in the way of regular upkeep.
Be aware of the strict requirements of the breed standard if you intend to show your Finkie. According to the American Kennel Club, its coat must always be free of trimming (except for the feet) and should never be a solid color, but rather a shaded, uniform color.
Exercise
The Finnish spitz is still largely employed for hunting in its homeland of Finland, although in the United States it is more commonly seen as a companion animal. Due to their athletic build, Finkies require a good deal of daily exercise (at least an hour) to maintain their health and happiness. They thrive in spacious homes with secure yards where they may run and play for long stretches of time each day.
All Finkies need at least one daily 30-minute walk in addition to their playtime in the yard. They are also wonderful company for a jog or hike, and they won't even mind keeping pace with a bicycle or skateboard. Your Finkie will enjoy working out beside you in any capacity you like.
Training
The Finnish spitz is a breed of dog that needs plenty of love and persistent training to become an ideal pet. This breed's intelligence level can be problematic at times. Typically, Finkies are free-spirited individuals. Short, frequent sessions that focus on positive reinforcement for good behavior are most effective. Obedience training can start as early as 8 weeks of age.
To guarantee your dog gets along well with people and animals outside of your family, it's important to start socialization early on. Your dog may need training to curb his barking because the Finnish spitz was originally developed to notify hunters. Having more social interactions with your dog might also reduce barking (especially at other dogs and people).
Children And Other Pets
Finnish Spitz adore kids and may take a lot of abuse before going away. Due to their durability, they can withstand the abuse of toddlers with underdeveloped motor skills.
However, it is important to educate children on the proper way to approach and touch dogs, and to always monitor interactions between dogs and young children to avoid any instances of biting or ear or tail pulling. Teach your kid that it's not okay to disturb a dog while he's resting or eating, and that he should never try to take the dog's food. In no circumstances should a dog, no matter how well-behaved, be left alone with a youngster.
Finnish Spitz are friendly to other pets if raised with them, including cats and dogs, but may show aggression toward strange canine companions. Additionally, avian pets should be wary of their surroundings.
Puppies
Make sure your home is dog-friendly before bringing a Finnish Spitz home, whether you buy it from a breeder or a shelter. Get your dog a bed, toys, a leash, a collar, food, a crate, a treat bag, and anything else he or she may need. You should also look for a reliable veterinarian to treat your dog.
Get rid of any poisonous plants or household cleaners from rooms your dog can enter. In addition, you should pack up any valuables you don't want chewed up by the dog. This breed can be very stubborn, therefore it's best to start teaching and socializing as soon as possible after bringing the dog home.
Dogs similar to Finnish Spitz
These canines share similarities with the American Eskimo Dog, the Shiba Inu, and the Chow Chow.
American Eskimo Dog:
The average size of an American Eskimo Dog and a Finnish Spitz is almost the same. Both weigh roughly 30 pounds on average, making them medium-sized dogs (16 pounds for American Eskimo Dogs and 33 pounds for Finnish Spitzes). Both types of dogs can be energetic and loving. However, these breeds don't look anything alike. American Eskimo Dogs are white, but Finnish Spitzes are a reddish gold.
Shiba Inu:
Both Shiba Inus and Finnish Spitzes are great dogs for first-time owners thanks to their calm demeanor and low maintenance requirements. Both dog types need a lot of vigorous physical activity to satisfy their boundless energy. Finnish Spitzes are louder and bark more frequently than Shiba Inus.
Chow Chow:
Both Chow Chows and Finnish Spitz are known for their undying devotion to their humans and their fierce independence. However, Chow Chows dwarf Finnish Spitzes in size. They weigh an average of 57.5 pounds, compared to the 33-pound average for Finnish Siberians.