Finnish spitz | Facts & Information

Care: relatively easy to care for, must be brushed

Other names: Suomenpystykorva, Finsk Spets, Loulou Finnoi, Finnish Spitz dog

Origin

The Icelandic Shepherd is considered an adornment of Icelandic folk culture, a father-to-son legacy for more than 1,000 years. Also called Icelandic Spitz or Icelandic herd dog, our protagonist is the only breed of dog native to Iceland.

It is part of the 5th FCI group, that of Nordic and spitz-type dogs, old breeds that still retain their primitv character. The Norwegian Buhund breed and the Karelian bear dog are its closest relatives.

The origin of this dog is satrans related to the birth of the Icelandic people. By the 9th century C. E., Viking settlers were treading the Frozen Land of present-day Iceland for the first time. They were accompanied by some robust, strong and brave dogs, not much different from today's Icelandic.

Life on the farm depended largely on the presence of these dogs. They were not only herd dogs, but also good guards and companions. The Icelandic Shepherd was not only dealing with the Manatee of herds of sheep, but they had to perform much more complex tasks.

When a sheep wandered through Iceland's relentless perish, the dog had a duty to find her and bring her safely to her sisters. This implies a great ability to solve complex tasks, organizational spirit, independence and determination.

Not only sheep were assigned to the duties of the dog, but also herds of cattle or ponies. In summer, large animals were allowed to graze freely in the Icelandic mountains, their protection being provided only by these dogs. They were meant to protect them and bring them home when the master wanted.

In the 18th century, the Icelander almost disappeared due to scum and plague, which exterminated 75% of the dog population. This led the Icelandic authorities to ban the importation of dogs. This, by the way, is beneficial for the breed, which managed to preserve its purity, built in hundreds of years.

Although currently considered a rare breed, in the world, the Icelandic Shepherd is not on the verge of extinction. In his native country he is even very popular, and domestic breeders strive to keep their breed, national pride, afloat.

It can also be found under the name Suomenpystykorva.

Finnish Spitz Feed

The Finnish Spitz is a lover of food. He likes to eat and especially, he likes to eat goodies. So pay attention to the food that you offer him and that the children offer him.

This helps in training because this dog does anything for a snack. Pay attention to the amount of food because they can easily gain weight.

Although they are not picky dogs it is good to be offered dog food. It does not matter if it is bought or cooked in the house, the important thing is to provide the animal with all the vitamins and proteins it needs.

Most people know that one of the main foods is meat. They are owners who feed their dogs raw meat.

It is recommended lower in fat. To get a dog in shape and of normal weight, you need to make sure that he does his daily exercise. Do not forget that he needs fresh water daily to drink when he is thirsty.

Read more about ... dog food

Appearance Finnish Spitz

The Icelandic Shepherd is a medium to small dog with a robust body, but well proportioned. Seen from the side, the body is rectangular, with the line of the back longer than that of the height at the shoulder.

The neck is moderately long, slightly arched, muscular and worn high. The head is wide, with a conical snout, ending with a black truffle. The ears are triangular, with a rounded tip and borne erect. Lips pigmented in black. The bushy tail is held high, in the form of a sickle.

The height is between 40 and 48 cm, measured at the shoulder. The weight is between 9 and 15 kg. females are noticeably smaller than males.

The coat can be long or short, both variants being graying and moisture resistant. The color can be: tan, reddish, gray, brown, black with white spots, etc.

Behavior Finnish Spitz

Finnish spitz is an active and friendly dog that loves to be around familiar people. Distant from strangers, this dog will bark and can become aggressive with people who do not give him confidence. Some specimens may have a dominant attitude and, in particular, males.

The Finnish spitz is also known as Finland's barking quail, which makes you deduce that this breed likes to bark. This can be a problem when raised in urban areas and you have neighbors nearby, especially if your dog is left outside for long periods of time. If he has nothing to do, the Finnish spitz will bark at any time and at every fall of a leaf.

The Finnish spitz is an excellent companion dog for families who adapt well in both urban and rural regions. The breed is tolerant of children, especially if it grows with them.

This dog is very protective of his family and will always bark when strangers approach. They prefer cooler environments. It is an active dog, which makes it an excellent companion for jogging.

Finnish spitz can live happily in an apartment as long as it is frequently taken out for walks. This breed will get along well with other pets, if it is bred with them.

Dressage Finnish Spitz

Finnish spitz can be difficult dogs to educate, especially those with a dominant and independent character.

To have results requires a firm and consistent training and a lot of patience.

Read more about ... Pet Dog Training

Features Finnish Spitz

Finnish spitz does not like to be left alone with nothing to do.

They are intelligent dogs and require mental stimulation to prevent the development of destructive behaviors and excessive barking.

Diseases Of The Finnish Spitz

The Finnish spitz is a robust and hardy breed with few known diseases.

The most common are hip dysplasia, patella dislocation and progressive retinal atrophy, a disease that causes nerve cells in the retina to degenerate, leading to blindness.

The average lifespan of the Finnish spitz is 12-15 years.