Finnish Spitz
Also known as: Finkie, Finnish Barking Bird Dog, Suomenpystykorva
Energy Level
Apartment Friendly
Weight (Male)
25-33 lbs
Height (Male)
17.5-20 inches
Quick Facts
Coat Colors
Breed Summary
The Finnish Spitz is Finland's national breed—a fox-like hunting dog that uses barking to point out game birds. Known for their stunning red-gold coat and yodeling bark, they are lively, independent companions.
History
Finland's national breed, developed for hunting grouse and other game birds. They bark to indicate game location—up to 160 barks per minute. Called the Barking Bird Dog. AKC recognized in 1991.
Appearance
A fox-like, medium-sized Spitz breed with a stunning red-gold coat. Dense double coat, erect pointed ears, and a plumed tail. Alert, intelligent expression. Athletic, square build.
Temperament
Lively, intelligent, and independent. Finnish Spitz are friendly, playful dogs with a strong independent streak. They are loyal to family but maintain their own opinions about everything.
Personality Around Others
Loyal to family. Can be reserved with strangers. Good with children. Independent. Alert.
Exercise Needs
Moderate to high exercise needs. Daily vigorous walks and play. Enjoy outdoor activities.
Training
Intelligent but independent. Positive reinforcement. Can be stubborn. Patient training.
Grooming
Dense coat needs weekly brushing. Heavy seasonal shedding. Regular baths during shedding.
Health
Common Health Conditions
Generally healthy breed. Hip dysplasia and epilepsy are occasional concerns.
Recommended Health Tests
- Hip Evaluation
- Patellar Evaluation
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Average Annual Vet Cost
$600-$1,200
Nutrition
Quality food for active medium breeds. Two meals daily. Active dogs need adequate nutrition.
Living Environment
Need space for exercise. Can adapt to apartments with sufficient activity. Love outdoor time.
Ideal Family
Active families wanting a unique, independent companion. Those who don't mind vocal dogs.
Intelligence
Intelligent and resourceful. They think independently. Good problem-solvers. Learn at own pace.
Barking
Frequency
Alert
Separation
Quiet Indoors
VERY vocal breed—bred to bark up to 160 times per minute when hunting. Will bark a lot.
Shedding
Year-Round
Seasonal
Vacuum Factor 🧹
Hypoallergenic
Heavy shedding, especially seasonal. Dense double coat requires regular maintenance.
Weather Tolerance
☀️
Heat
❄️
Cold
🌧️
Rain
🌨️
Snow
💧
Humidity
Breed Ratings
Fun Facts
Finland's national breed and national dog
Can bark up to 160 times per minute when hunting
Finland holds a King of the Barkers competition annually
Their fox-like appearance has earned them the nickname Finnish Fox Dog
One of the oldest hunting breeds in Scandinavia
Famous Dogs
Barking Champions
Finnish Spitz that win the annual King of the Barkers competition in Finland
Common Myths
"Their barking can be trained away"
Barking is deeply ingrained—it's their primary hunting tool. You can moderate it but never eliminate it
"They look like foxes so they must be wild"
Finnish Spitz are fully domesticated dogs with a fox-like appearance—they are loyal family companions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do they really bark that much?
Yes—they were bred to bark. It's their most distinctive trait. This is a significant consideration for apartment living.
Are they good apartment dogs?
Not ideal due to their vocal nature. Better in houses with yards where barking is less problematic.
Puppy Guide
Finnish Spitz puppies are curious and vocal. Start training early. Accept they will bark.
Senior Care
Senior Finkies remain alert and vocal. Moderate exercise. Joint care if needed.
Ownership Costs
Estimated Lifetime Cost
$14,000-$20,000
Pros and Cons
Pros
Beautiful red-gold coat
Loyal companion
Good with children
Hardy and healthy
Unique heritage
Cons
Extremely vocal
Heavy shedding
Independent streak
Not apartment-friendly
Stubborn