Finnish Spitz History
The Finnish Spitz is a medium-sized spitz-type Nordic sleddog. The origins and ancestry of the Lapponian Herder or Finn-Spitze is often disputed, even by the Finnish kennel clubs who claim her as their national native breed of dog. The Swedish-speaking Sámi people have their own version of the story, which claims that the Sami were the first keepers of this unique animal. This legend states that King Erik of Sweden granted the Sami the right to own and hunt the Finlander, which is the Swedish name for the Lapponian Herder or Finn-Spitze. However, the earliest history of the Finnish Spitz begins in the 16th century, when, according to the records of the Archbishop of Turku, a shepherd named Olof Svärd delivered two pups to Archbishop Mikael Agricola, which would become the first ever Finnish Spitz.
Finnish Spitz Physical Characteristics
The Finn-Spitz is a small, medium – sized Sporting Dog breed of dog. (The American Kennel Club has a classification of “Siberian Husky” instead.) They stand between 16 and 22 inches at the shoulders and normally weigh between 30 and 40 pounds. They have a thick, long double-coated coat, which is either pure white, or multi-colored. They have a noble, wolf-like face, with deep-set eyes, pointed ears, and a thick, bushy tail. They are strong, intelligent, and well-mannered.
Eye Colors
Brown
Nose Colors
Unknown
Coat Colors
Unknown
Height Range
Male Height Range: 17 – 20 inches
Female Height Range: 15 – 18 inches
Weight Range
Male Weight Range: 25 – 33 lbs
Female Weight Range: 20 – 28 lbs
Finnish Spitz Health
Description of breed health.
Lifespan
12-15 yrs
Finnish Spitz Health Concerns
Finnish Spitz Temperament and Behaviour
The Finnish Spitz is a playful and brave breed of dog that is naturally happy, gentle, and sociable. They get along well with children, but can sometimes be aggressive towards other small animals. They tend to form a strong bond with their owners, and are known to be protective of them.
Finnish Spitz Activity Requirements
Finnish Spitz are intelligent, playful, and alert. They have strong legs and love to run around. A daily walk or jog is a wonderful way to keep your Finnish Spitz healthy and happy. They are a great choice for families who enjoy the outdoors and like to stay active. If you are an active person, a Finnish Spitz may be the perfect companion for you. However, if you are not quite as athletic, a Finnish Spitz may not be the best choice for you. This is an extremely energetic, outgoing, and spirited dog. The more time you spend with them, the happier they will be. If you do not get enough physical exercise, they may develop behavioral problems. If you’re considering a Finnish Spitz, be sure to meet their exercise needs. This is not a breed that will be content to sit at home all day. They need plenty of activity, both physical and mental, to be happy and well-adjusted.
Miles Per Day
Unknown
Activity Per Day
Unknown
Daily Food
2.5 cups
Kennel Club Recognition
American Kennel Club
Recognized by the American Kennel Club
Finnish Spitz is part of the Non-Sporting group.
Visit the American Kennel Club website.
The Kennel Club
Recognized by The Kennel Club
Finnish Spitz is part of the Hound group.
Visit the Kennel Club website.
Australian National Kennel Council
Recognized by the Australian National Kennel Council
Finnish Spitz is part of the Hound group.
Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.
Canadian Kennel Club
Recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club
Finnish Spitz is part of the Hound group.
Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.