Finnish Hound
Description
The Finnish Hound is a medium-sized scenthound developed in 19th-century Finland, bred to track hares and foxes across rugged forests and flat terrains. Their tricolor coat is short and dense, designed to protect them from harsh weather without heavy shedding. They weigh between 44 and 55 pounds, combining stamina with a robust build that suits their hunting heritage. These dogs have a calm yet energetic nature, making them good companions for active families. Their strong nose and determination shine during tracking, but their hunting instincts mean they might not be safe around small pets. Finnish Hounds are friendly with people and other dogs but need plenty of exercise and mental challenges to thrive.
Grooming
Finnish Hounds have a smooth, double coat that requires minimal upkeep but benefits from regular care. Their tricolor fur doesn’t demand special stain treatment, but keeping the coat clean helps maintain its natural shine. Weekly brushing with a rubber curry or bristle brush removes loose hair and distributes natural oils, keeping the coat healthy without overdoing it. Bathing should happen every 4 to 8 weeks to avoid stripping essential oils. Nail trims every 2 to 4 weeks prevent discomfort, and monthly ear checks help avoid buildup or infections. • Brush weekly with rubber curry or bristle brush • Bathe every 4–8 weeks, no more • Trim nails every 2–4 weeks • Clean ears monthly • Pro tidy as needed for stray hairs Pro tip: Use a damp cloth to wipe paws after walks to reduce dirt buildup and keep nails cleaner longer.
Learn the Smooth routine:
→ Complete Smooth Grooming Guide
Walking
Finnish Hounds need about 85 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to manage their stamina and keep them engaged. Morning walks can be brisk and focused on scent work or tracking games, while evening strolls should be more relaxed to wind down. This breed’s strong hunting drive means leash control is essential during walks, especially in open areas where their nose might lead them astray. Example routine: Morning: 45 minutes of brisk walking with scent games Evening: 40 minutes of calm, social stroll around the neighborhood Keep sessions varied to prevent boredom and tap into their natural tracking instincts.
Boarding
When boarding a Finnish Hound, provide a crate sized between 42 and 48 inches to accommodate their medium frame comfortably. These dogs enjoy active play sessions, so plan for two daily play blocks that include scent or brain games to engage their tracking skills and mental sharpness. Their baying bark can be loud, so staff should be prepared to manage vocalization without stress. Finnish Hounds thrive with enrichment that mimics their hunting background—puzzle feeders, scent trails, and interactive toys work well. Staff should monitor their social interactions, as they generally get along with other dogs but may show strong prey drive. Regular exercise and mental stimulation during boarding help reduce restlessness and maintain a calm demeanor.