GROUP 4 - HOUNDS

Brief History
Dogs of this type have been used in Northern countries to hunt game for hundreds of years. In Finland the main goal was to preserve a dog that historically excelled at barking well at game up trees and was also beautiful, and these dogs were registered in the 1880’s as the Finnish Spitz.

The breed is extremely popular in Finland and Sweden and was named as the National Dog of Finland in 1979.

Average Life Span
When considering a dog please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime.

The average life span is 13 to 15 years.

Temperament
Lively, vigorous, determined, independent. Initially cautious with strangers but should not be shy and never vicious.

General Breed Description
The Finnish Spitz is often described as “fox-like” due to his pointed muzzle, small, erect ears, dense coat and bushy tail, and glorious red colouring. He is a hunting dog who is a proficient bird hunter, and mainly used to hunt a large Finnish bird called Capercaillie, but can also be used for small game, waterfowl and to track elk. He is an eager hunter, quick moving and light on his feet, and barks when excited or on a scent.

“Finkies” as they are known, are an independent dog that bond closely to their families and are excellent house and guard dogs.

Gentle and firm training is required during puppyhood to curb their innate habit of barking.

Coat and Care Requirements
The coat is a hallmark of the breed. It is about 2 inches long, harsh and straight and stands off the body a little with a dense soft coat next to the skin. It is more profuse on the breeches and tail, and males also have a heavier neck ruff. The coat needs thorough brushing every couple of days and sheds heavily twice a year. They are best with daily exercise.

Health
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders it is recommended you enquire about breed’s health and what health testing the breeder does. The Finnish Spitz is generally a healthy breed, However, health conditions do occur occasionally.

Size
Height: Males 44 to 50cms (17 to 20ins), Females 39 to 45cms (15.5 to 18ins).

Suitability
The Finnish Spitz is a good dog for a family who like an independent thinking dog.

In Conclusion
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.

Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.

Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.

Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard https://dogsaustralia.org.au/breed/detail/136