Dog class - Non Sporting
Average height - 15.5 to 20 inches
Average weight - 24 to 35 pounds
Size - Medium
Coat - Thick, medium length double coat
Average life span - 10 to 12 years

The Finnish Spitz is a Nordic dog with a fox-like appearance. They have pricked ears and a cream colored tail that curves over and rests on the back. The Finnish Spitz are cat-like in their grooming habits and need little maintenance from their human companions.

Originally used to track large game such as polar bear and elk. It has also been used as a bark pointer to track small game animals and birds. Ancestors were the hunting companions of ancient Finns. Finns hold an annual contest to crown Finland's top barking dog.

Today the Finnish Spitz is in the Non-Sporting Group and more of a companion dog than a hunter.

Count how fast your Finnish Spitz can bark! They can bark up to 160 times per minute!

This breed does very well with children and don't pursue aggressive situations. The Finnish Spitz is very intelligent and responds well to positive reinforcement. They have few health problems with low incidence of hip dysplasia or allergies. Very little trimming of their coat is required.

Socialization can be difficult, especially as puppies because the dog is more interested in other things. Their personality is initially aloof. Barks a lot in a high-pitched bark.

This breed is good for first time owners and good with children. They may not be very sociable with strangers but bond well with the immediate family. This is a very active dog, and they need to be exercised at least a half hour 3-4 times per day. They also need adequate space to play. Brave but cautious, the Finnish Spitz makes an excellent watchdog.

Sometimes called the Finnish Barking Birddog. The national dog of Finland.

Further Finnish Spitz Dog Resources