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Finnish Spitz

Finnish Spitz is a medium non-sporting breed from Finland also known as Suomenpystykorva, Finnish Hunting Dog, Finkie.

Breed overview

Finnish Spitz is a medium non-sporting breed from Finland also known as Suomenpystykorva, Finnish Hunting Dog, Finkie.

Finland's national dog, originally bred by the Finno-Ugric tribes thousands of years ago for hunting birds and small game. They use a unique hunting method called 'barking up the game' where they bark to mesmerize birds until hunters can approach.

People looking into Finnish Spitz usually prepare for Moderate exercise needs, Moderate grooming needs, 20–33 lbs • 15–20 in.

SuomenpystykorvaFinnish Hunting DogFinkie

History and origin

Finnish Spitz is tied to originating from Finland, specifically Central Finland, with sources often placing its development around 1675 CE.

Finnish Spitz is described here as placed in the non-sporting group and marked as an established breed.

Finland's national dog, originally bred by the Finno-Ugric tribes thousands of years ago for hunting birds and small game. They use a unique hunting method called 'barking up the game' where they bark to mesmerize birds until hunters can approach.

Quick facts

Breed group
non-sporting
Size
Medium
Origin country
Finland
Region
Central Finland
Origin year
1675 CE
Weight
20–33 lbs
Height
15–20 in
Lifespan
13–15 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
4 / 5
Trainability
3 / 5
Good with children
4 / 5
Shedding level
4 / 5
Barking tendency
5 / 5
Moderate exercise needsModerate grooming needsChildren score: 4/5Trainability: 3/5

Coat and classification

Finnish Spitz is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

DoubleDenseStand Off

Finnish Spitz is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Medium-sized spitz with fox-like appearance
  • Golden-red double coat with lighter undercoat
  • Erect pointed ears and curled tail
  • Compact, well-balanced build with square proportions

What this breed is known for

  • Finland's national dog, originally bred by the Finno-Ugric tribes thousands of years ago for hunting birds and small game. They use a unique hunting method called 'barking up the game' where they bark to mesmerize birds until hunters can approach.
  • Known as the 'King of the Barkers,' Finnish Spitz can bark up to 160 times per minute. In Finland, there are annual competitions to find the dog with the most beautiful bark, with winners achieving celebrity status.
  • Nearly went extinct in the 1880s when hunters began preferring hunting dogs from other countries. The breed was saved by two Finnish sportsmen who found pure specimens in remote villages and established a breeding program.

Health and care notes

Finnish Spitz is noted here for Moderate exercise needs and Moderate grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Epilepsy

Coat details: Double, Dense, Stand Off

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Finnish Spitz come from?

Finnish Spitz is closely associated with Finland, especially Central Finland in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Finnish Spitz get?

Typical size details for Finnish Spitz on this page are 20–33 lbs, 15–20 in, 13–15 years.

What is the Finnish Spitz known for?

Finland's national dog, originally bred by the Finno-Ugric tribes thousands of years ago for hunting birds and small game. They use a unique hunting method called 'barking up the game' where they bark to mesmerize birds until hunters can approach.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Finnish Spitz reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.