Origin:
In its native Finland, this breed is known as the Suomenpystykorva, which
means "Finnish cock-eared hunting dog." Fortunately for our tongues, it's known
as the Finnish Spitz in North America. Now considered to be the national dog of
Finland, the breed's history stretches back into antiquity and it is accepted that
the breed existed in the northern parts of Finland and Lapland for thousands of
years. Gradually they moved southward and made themselves useful hunting
everything from squirrel to bear. The Finnish Spitz is said to be particularly good
on feathered game as well. When nothing had been done to preserve the purity
of the breed by the end of the 19th century, two Finnish sportsmen travelled to
the north country to obtain purebred specimens and set up a breeding program.
Type and ability were set and the breed was recognized, at last, by the Finnish
Kennel Club in the 1920s.
Temperament:
Courageous, faithful and a born hunter, the Finnish Spitz has the
manners of a true gentleman. Reported to be especially good with children, he
makes an ideal family pet and companion as well as a superior watchdog.
Activity level:
This dog's whole being shows liveliness. He enjoys outdoor
exercise and requires no less than a daily walk to keep him in condition.
Height/Weight:
Height ranges from 17.5-19.5 in (44-50 cm) at the shoulder for
adult males. Females will be slightly less.
Coat:
The coat on the head and legs is short and close, but on the rest of the
body it is noticeably longer and coarser and may stand erect or half-erect.
Color:
The crowning glory of the Finnish Spitz is its glowing shades of red gold,
which add to the breed's foxy look.
Grooming:
A thorough weekly brushing is necessary to keep the soft undercoat
free of mats.