Overview
The Finnish Spitz was bred to hunt capercaillie and grouse by tracking them to a tree and barking continuously to mark the spot. In Finland there are barking competitions, which tells you most of what you need to know about the voice. The glowing red coat and fox-like face make it one of the most recognisable spitz breeds.
It is a clean, independent dog, often described as cat-like, that is affectionate with its own people and reserved with strangers. It makes up its own mind about what is worth doing and does not pretend otherwise.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour and a quarter a day, with chances to trot and investigate, keeps the breed in good order. They are agile and quick but not relentless.
Scent and sight stimulation count for a lot: a route with trees, birds and undergrowth is far more satisfying than an open field.
On the walk
- Recall: Variable. A trained Finnish Spitz can be reliable; an untrained one will go up to the first interesting bird and start shouting. Secure spaces are safest.
- Barking: Frequent and loud. Birds, squirrels, other dogs and simple excitement all set it off. Pick routes away from housing.
- Other dogs: Independent and generally civil. They are not usually interested in rough play and may tell off a pushy dog.
- Pulling: Light. A harness protects the thick neck ruff and stops the dog slipping a collar.
Tips for professional walkers
- Work on a quiet cue and reward silence, even for a second or two, early in every walk.
- Keep the walk interesting; this breed is quick to get bored and bored means noisy.
- Avoid leaving it tied up outside anything; it will bark and it can slip collars.
What to ask the owner
- How much barking does the owner tolerate, and is there a quiet cue you should use?
- Has the dog been let off anywhere, and how did the recall hold up?
- Does it have any triggers that set it off more than others, such as cats or birds?