About the Breed
Acknowledged as the national dog of Finland, the Finnish Spitz shows the unmistakable characteristics of this northern group of dogs. Its alert demeanour, with pricked ears and the curly tail that extends forward over the back, reflects a breed that has evolved to flush game birds such as the capercaillie from cover for waiting guns. Its tracking skills have also been used to pursue bear and elk. The appearance of the Finnish Spitz, in terms of an official standard, was first established back in 1812. The breed was introduced into England in 1927 by Sir Edward Chichester. The breed is now well established in this country where its courage and fidelity and intelligent appearance have made it many friends.
Only quite recently, however, has it become popular elsewhere. In Britain, Lady Kitty Ritson did much to draw attention to the breed during the 1920s and 1930s. The Finnish Spitz is a hardy, yet home-loving breed, with plenty of stamina. It will thrive in a family environment and also makes an alert guard dog in these surroundings. However, a possible drawback associated with the breed can be its tendency to bark repeatedly. This behaviour is related to its hunting technique, the dog having been encouraged to bark to indicate the presence of a bird in a tree. This breed is still judged on its barking abilities in working trials held in its country of origin.
Height 17-20 in (43-51 cm)
Weight 31-36 lb (14-16.3 kg)
Coat type/colour Coat short except on back, back of thighs and tail, semi-erect on neck. Colour bright reddish-brown or yellowish-red on back, lighter on rest of body. Head foxy, with a sharp muzzle; ears erect and pointed; back short and level; tail bushy and curled over the back.

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