Finnish Spitz
Description
The Finnish Spitz, often called the "Finkie," is a medium-sized hunting dog with a rich heritage tracing back thousands of years to Finno-Ugric tribes. This breed's striking gold to red-gold double coat, accented with white markings, stands out in any setting. They weigh between 20 and 33 pounds, sporting a fox-like face and pointed ears that reflect their alert nature. Originally bred to hunt game birds, their signature yodel-like bark was essential for communicating with hunters. Finnish Spitz dogs are lively and playful companions who bond well with families and other pets when socialized early. They tend to be reserved around strangers and show a streak of independence that can challenge training. Their vocal tendencies mean they’ll often alert you to anything unusual, making them excellent watchdogs but requiring patience with their frequent barking.
Grooming
The Finnish Spitz has a medium-length double coat that sheds heavily during spring and fall. Regular brushing three times a week keeps loose hair under control, but during shedding seasons, daily brushing with an undercoat rake is necessary to remove dead fur effectively. Bathing every 4 to 6 weeks helps maintain coat health, and blow-drying afterward not only speeds drying but also aids in de-shedding. White markings on their coat can sometimes show dirt more easily, so spot cleaning these areas between baths is helpful. Nail trimming and ear checks should be part of the routine to prevent discomfort. Key grooming points: - Brush 3× weekly; daily in heavy shed seasons - Use an undercoat rake to remove dead hair - Bathe every 4–6 weeks; blow-dry for best results - Spot clean white markings as needed - Regular nail and ear care Pro tip: Schedule grooming sessions around shedding peaks to keep your home cleaner and your dog more comfortable.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
Finnish Spitz dogs require about 70 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to satisfy their active nature and mental stimulation needs. Morning walks can be brisk and focused on physical exercise, while evening outings might include scent work or light training to engage their sharp senses. Example routine: - Morning: 40-minute brisk walk with short recall training - Evening: 30-minute walk incorporating scent games and socialization This breed thrives on variety and benefits from routes that offer new smells and sights. Consistent walking schedules help manage their vocal tendencies by providing an outlet for excess energy. Keep in mind, they can be vocal during walks, so training to control barking on leash is essential.
Boarding
When boarding a Finnish Spitz, provide a crate sized between 36 and 42 inches to accommodate their medium frame comfortably. They enjoy interactive play, so staff should plan two active play sessions daily combined with scent or brain games to keep them mentally engaged. Slow introductions to new people and a predictable routine help reduce stress, as this breed can be reserved around strangers. Their playful yet independent nature means they appreciate enrichment that challenges their intelligence without overwhelming them. Staff should monitor barking levels and use calming techniques to manage vocalizations. Regular breaks outside the crate for exercise and socialization are crucial to maintain their well-being during boarding stays.