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Finnish Spitz Facts
- Group
- Non Sporting
- Affiliations
- AKC, CKC, UKC
- Height
- 15.5" - 20"
- Weight
- 25-40 lbs.
- Lifespan
- 14 years | Add yours
- Exercise Requirement
- Training Requirement
- Grooming Requirement
- Colors
- Breed Characteristics
Alternate Names
Finsk spets, Suomenpystykorva, Finnish prick eared dog, Finnish cock eared dog, Finnish barking bird dog
Origin
The Finnish spitz originated in Finland.
Date Of Origin
It is unknown exactly when this breed was developed, however, it is believed to have existed for thousands of years.
History
The Finnish spitz is the national dog of Finland, where it is used as a hunting dog primarily on a large game bird called the capercaillie. It is trained to forge ahead of the hunter until it finds the capercaillie, then follow the bird until it sets in a tree. The dog keeps the birds attention by swaying its tail and moving back and forth; meanwhile it barks to alert the hunter to the location. This breed continues to be used as a hunting dog in Finland but is primarily a companion elsewhere.
Description
The Finnish spitz is a medium size, fox like dog that is square and well balanced. It has a pointed muzzle; small, mobile, erect ears; dark, almond shaped eyes;and a black nose. It has a deep chest and plumed, curled tail. The dense, red-gold double coat has a ruff at the neck. It may have white markings at the tip of the toes and chest.
Temperament
The Finnish spitz is a lively and friendly dog loyal to its family but somewhat cautious in new situations. It is intelligent and independent. It is often described as catlike. It enjoys the outdoors.
Uses
At one time this dog was used by Lapp hunters to track polar bears and elk. More recently, it has been used for hunting birds. The Finnish spitz is also an excellent house guard dog.
Health Concerns
Obesity, heart problems
Additional Information
The puppies are delicate at birth and require much care.
The undercoat sheds heavily and frequent brushing is required.
Sources
The Howell Book Of Dogs
Publisher: Wiley Publishing Inc, 2007
Website: http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/
Author: Liz Palika
Dog Bible
Publisher: BowTie Press, 2005
Website: http://www.bowtiepress.com/bowtie/
Authors: Kristin Meuh-Roe, Jarelle S. Stein
Simon & Schusters Guide to Dogs
Publisher: Simon & Schuster inc, 1980
Website: http://www.simonandschuster.com
Author: Elizabeth Meriwether Schuler
The New Encyclopedia of the Dog
Publisher: Dorling Kindersley Publishing, 2000
Website: http://www.dk.com
Author: Bruce Fogle
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