The Finnish spitz is a medium-sized, non-sporting dog breed from Finland with a double coat, pointed ears, and a signature spitz tail that curls upward over its back. Affectionately called "Finkies," these dogs are animated, intelligent, and friendly. They make great additions to active families, as they're energetic, kid-friendly, and protective of their packs.

Pricked-up pointed ears and golden-red fur give the Finnish spitz a fox-like appearance. Thanks to its alert disposition, this breed also resembles the fox in its temperament. Finkies are stealthy hunters known to catch small game (like birds and squirrels) with ease. At home, this breed is a loving companion that gets along with people and other pets that it's familiar with.

Characteristics of the Finnish Spitz

Finkies were bred to bark. Hunters taught them to alert when they spotted prey on a hunt in the countryside, but while barking may be desired in that setting, it’s not always a desirable personality trait at home. It will take training to teach your Finnish spitz when it should and shouldn't bark. If you do decide to add this breed to your family, be prepared for its vocal nature.

This breed also loves to run. Potential owners should be active and eager to take at least one long walk, run, or hike each day. Extra play sessions are always welcome, especially when they involve children. Finkies are sharp as a tack; they learn quickly, but they can also be independent thinkers. Positive reward-based training is best to keep learning entertaining for these dogs. They're also a great breed for canine sports like agility training that provides both mental and physical stimulation.

History of the Finnish Spitz

Historians believe that dogs similar to the modern Finnish spitz were brought to Finland by migrating tribes from central Russia several thousand years ago. The migrants relied on these talented hunting dogs for food. For centuries, the spitz-like breeds were used as all-purpose hunters that eventually specialized in catching birds.

With the advancement of transportation infrastructure in the 18th century, the dogs were introduced to new areas, and they began mating with other breeds. As a result, the original Finnish spitz breed edged toward extinction.

Thankfully, these unique dogs had two dedicated admirers, Hugo Roos and Hugo Sandberg, who brought the Finnish spitz population back in the late 1800s. They spent decades selectively breeding dogs to achieve individuals reflective of today’s breed. The Finnish Kennel Club recognized the Finnish spitz by the end of the century.

In the 1920s, Finland began exporting Finnish spitz dogs to England, where they first got their "Finkie" nickname. They arrived in America around 1960 and were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1988.

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Finnish Spitz Care

The Finnish spitz is a high-energy dog breed that requires plenty of activity. These dogs make great companions when exercised, socialized, and trained consistently. Their thick double coats don't need to be trimmed, but owners should be prepared for heavy shedding twice each year.

Exercise

In its native Finland, the Finnish spitz is still used primarily for hunting, while its role in America is more of a companion dog. Because the breed is built for long hunts, Finkies need considerable exercise (at least an hour total each day) to stay happy and healthy. Generally, they do best in a large home with a fenced yard, allowing them to run free and play for large parts of the day.

In addition to regular romps in the yard, Finkies need at least one 30-minute walk a day. They also make great running or hiking partners and will happily jog alongside a bicycle or skateboard. No matter your favorite form of exercise, your Finkie will love joining you.

Grooming

The Finnish spitz has a double coat that sheds heavily twice per year. Rather than biding time during shedding season and vacuuming up clumps of fur, the process can be sped up through thorough daily brushing. You can also ask your groomer about de-shedding options. Some shampoos do well at removing loose hairs, so de-shedding baths may be the way to go for you and your furry friend.

Finkies should only be bathed on an as-needed basis and typically don’t require trims. Aside from shedding, this breed has relatively low-maintenance grooming needs.

If you plan on showing your Finkie, know that the breed standard is very specific. The American Kennel Club notes that its coat should never be trimmed (except for the feet) and should never be a solid color, but shaded without any color changes.

Training

The Finnish spitz requires special attention and consistent training before it can become the perfect companion. This breed is highly intelligent, which can present a challenge. Finkies tend to be independent thinkers. They respond best to positive reward-based training when sessions are short with lots of praise for desired behaviors. Basic obedience lessons can begin at eight weeks of age.

Early socialization is key to ensure your dog does well with strangers and animals outside of its household. Because the Finnish spitz was bred to alert hunters, your dog may need training to discourage excessive barking. Socialization can also help cut down on barking (especially at other dogs and people).

Common Health Problems

While the Finnish spitz is a generally healthy dog breed, a few genetic health conditions can still arise. Responsible breeders will perform all available medical tests on the litter's parents to prevent passing problems down to puppies. Common issues seen in this breed include:

• Elbow and Hip Dysplasia: Dysplasia is a condition that affects your dog's joints, causing them to grow with malformations as the dog ages.
• Epilepsy: This neurological condition causes seizures in dogs. Mild to moderate cases can usually be treated with medication.
• Luxating Patella: This condition causes your dog's knee to pop in and out of place, and severe cases require surgery.

Diet and Nutrition

It’s important to stick to a strict diet using high-quality dog food packed with lean protein for your Finnish spitz. Like many dogs, this breed can become overweight when fed too many treats or allowed scraps of human food. Adhere to a daily regimen of low-fat, high-protein kibble appropriate for your dog’s age and size.

To prevent unnecessary weight gain and ensure your dog receives the proper nutrients, talk to your veterinarian. Together, you can create a diet plan based on your dog's age, weight, and activity level.

Where to Adopt or Buy a Finnish Spitz

If you're interested in the Finnish spitz, check with your local shelter to find this breed or a similar dog in need of a forever home. When adopting a dog, always ask the breeder or rescue for a certificate of health. Reputable breeders should provide information on health screenings for your dog and its parents, and rescues should provide current medical history.

The Finnish spitz is a rare dog breed in North America and can be difficult to find. Puppies typically cost between $1,000 and $2,000, though prices may vary based on pedigree and availability. Prospective owners should be prepared to join a waiting list.

To start your search, check out these resources from the AKC and breeders in good standing with the national breed club:

• Finnish Spitz Club of America (FSCA) Breeders
• AKC Finnish Spitz Breeders

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More Dog Breeds and Further Research

If you love the Finnish spitz, you might also like these similar breeds:

• Shiba Inu
• Akita
• Japanese Spitz

There are plenty of dog breeds that can join your family. With a little research, you can find your next best friend!