Finnish Spitz Breed Guide
Also known as: Suomenpystykorva, Barking Bird Dog
Finland's barking bird dog, Finnish Spitz are fox-like hunters whose vocal nature and independence appeal to those appreciating primitive breeds.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Medium
Weight
9-15 kg
Lifespan
13-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
High
Size
Medium
Weight
9-15 kg
Lifespan
13-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
High
About Finnish Spitzs
Finland's national dog, the Finnish Spitz was bred by ancient Finnish hunters to locate game birds and alert hunters with their distinctive bark. Their fox-like appearance and acute senses made them invaluable for hunting in dense Finnish forests.
Their dense double coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and sheds heavily during seasonal changes. Finnish Spitz are independent and alert, known for their vocal nature and strong hunting instincts.
They are devoted to their families but can be reserved with strangers. Finnish Spitz need moderate exercise and excel at activities that engage their hunting instincts. While generally healthy, potential owners should be aware of hip dysplasia, eye conditions, and bloat that can affect the breed.
Complete Care Guide for Finnish Spitzs
Expert advice on keeping your Finnish Spitz healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Establishing proper nutrition forms the foundation of health for Finnish Spitz dogs throughout their lives. These active companions require carefully balanced meals that provide adequate protein for muscle maintenance, healthy fats for energy, and essential vitamins and minerals to support their overall wellbeing. Quality ingredients play a crucial role in maintaining their distinctive double coat and sustaining their naturally energetic disposition.
Portion control deserves particular attention with Finnish Spitz dogs, as they can become overweight without proper monitoring. Meals should be measured according to age, size, and activity level, with adjustments made seasonally based on exercise patterns. Regular weight checks help ensure portions remain appropriate as metabolism changes with age.
As Finnish Spitz progress through life stages, their nutritional requirements evolve significantly. Puppies need nutrient-dense food to support rapid growth, while adult dogs benefit from balanced maintenance formulas. Senior dogs often require adjusted protein levels and supplements to support joint health and maintain muscle mass. When changing diets, implementing gradual transitions over 7-10 days helps prevent digestive upset and ensures continued enthusiasm for meals.
How healthy is your Finnish Spitz?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Finnish Spitzs from our community of pet parents
The Finnish Spitz is known for its lively personality and intelligent nature. They are sociable dogs that enjoy being part of family activities and are very good with children. Despite their friendly nature, they can be somewhat reserved around strangers, but they are not typically aggressive. As a breed initially developed for hunting, they are alert, brave, and have a vocal nature, often expressing themselves through 'talking' or barking.
Dog Breeds Similar to Finnish Spitz
Explore breeds with comparable temperament, size, and care requirements to the Finnish Spitz
Shiba Inu
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Keeshond
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