The Finnish Spitz is an ancient breed originating from Finland. Although its roots go back to very ancient times, the breed was not officially recognized until the late 19th century. This dog is known for its agility and hunting instinct.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Origin: Finland
- Hypoallergenic? No
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight: 12-14 kg (male), 8-10 kg (female)
- Height: 44-50 cm (male), 39-45 cm (female)
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Exercise needs: 1.5 to 2 hours per day
- Apartment living: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Not ideal for apartment living, needs space)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Smart dog but sometimes a bit stubborn)
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can be affectionate, but in an independent way)
- Protective: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Protective without being overly aggressive)
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Very playful and energetic)
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Loves to bark and is often noisy)
- Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can be independent, which can make training difficult)
- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Fairly strong hunting instinct)
- Calm: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Tends to be quite energetic and less calm)
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Very active and dynamic)
- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Independent, but enjoys the company of family)
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Generally gets along well with children, but may be a bit nervous)
- Other animals: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (May not be very compatible with other animals, especially small ones)
- Strangers: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Reserved with strangers, but not aggressive)
- Apartment living: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Needs outdoor space to expend energy)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Requires regular grooming due to its thick coat)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Moderate cost for food and veterinary care)
- Grooming frequency:
- Brushing: Two to three times a week to avoid tangles and maintain coat health.
- Other care: Standard maintenance, with occasional baths, ear cleaning, and nail trimming.
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 800-1500 €
- Average annual cost (veterinary, supplies, food): 300-500 €
🏡 Important note
The Finnish Spitz needs a lot of exercise and freedom to thrive. It is particularly suited to a home with a large fenced yard where it can run and play. This dog may bark frequently, which can make it a good watchdog. However, it is not the best suited for apartment living, as it has a natural need for space and activity.
👉 Ideal for active households with a large outdoor space! 🏞️🐕