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| Finnish Spitz |
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It would be difficult if not impossible to discuss the Finnish Spitz without using the word Foxy. While they were developed as a serious hunter and not for their specific physical traits, the similarities are clear. The lush red coat, prick ears and vigilant expression are just the beginning. Rescued from near extinction at the end of the 19th century by two Finnish hunters, the breed has developed to enjoy an enthusiastic and loyal following. Characteristically medium sized, clean, cat-like and confident, they are easy to live with even with their remarkable independence streak! |
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| General Information |
| Group(s):
Non-Sporting |
Height: 15.5 - 20 inches |
| Weight: 22-36 pounds |
Longevity: mid to high teens |
| Colors: Solid in shades ranging from pale honey to deep russet. |
Coat type: Lush and thick undercoat creates the effect of shading and glow to the thick double coat. |
| Recognized Registries: AKC, FCI, UKC, NCA and others |
| Overall Appearance: Square, foxy dog of medium size and moderate build with thick plumed tail in various warm shades from gold to red. |
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| Personaility - Behavior - Training |
| Energy Level: high |
| General Nature: |
can be reactive but generally very happy and bright |
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with Children: varies with individual but very quick and reactive so probably not suitable for children that are very young or uneducated on how to act around dogs, even if supervised |
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with other pets: varies with individual |
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with dogs: varies with individual |
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| Socialization requirements: generally quite high |
| Ideal home characteristics: One that appreciates the intelligent, quick and clever nature of the breed and doesn't put an extremely high value on absolute obedience |
| Temperament Notes: Independent, clever, agile, quick |
| Training requirement: moderate: socialization, and basic manners |
| Trainer notes: Like most of the Spitz breeds, the Finnish has developed a cunning and clever and independent streak that is a mile wide. While this can create an incredibly imaginative and creative training partner it does not typically lead to high scoring performances. For the trainer of the Finnish Spitz, it is important to enjoy the process and minor accomplishments as the quirky and quick nature of the breed will often create training challenges at a pace faster than most trainers can fix them! |
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| Background Information |
| Year range of first recognition: Spitz in general date back to the time of the Vikings, the emergence of the Finnish Spitz per se is lost in history. Saved from near extinction in the late 1800s though. |
| Country of Origin: Finland |
| Original Function: Hunting |
| History: After obscurity through much of its history, two native Finnish hunters discovered the breed in Northern Finland and determined to save it from extinction. Their success is evidenced by the wide spread popularity the breed enjoys today. |
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| Adoption Information |
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| Deviations from Standard: oversized, improper coat, too much white |
| Health Notes: diabetes, digestive disorders |
| Health Testing: |
| Questions to ask Breeder: http://www.digitaldog.com/breeder_questions.html - The Breeder Questions as listed here provided with explanations and answers you will want to be looking for!
How long have you had Finnish Spitz?
Why do you have Finnish Spitz (show, performance, hunting, etc.)?
What do you consider to be the most important single characteristic of an Finnish Spitz?
What health issues have you seen in the breed?
What criteria do you set for your breeding stock?
Do you plan to keep a puppy from this litter?
How often do you have puppies?
Do you have a written contract and puppy guarantee?
At what age do you sent your pups to their homes?
How would you describe the ideal Finnish Spitz?
How would you describe the ideal Finnish Spitz home?
Are your puppies whelped in your home?
What advice would you offer someone in raising and training an Finnish Spitz?
How do you assist or help Finnish Spitz in need of rescue? |
| Web Sites: http://www.rescue.finnishspitzclub.org/ - Finnish Spitz Club of America Rescue Information |
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| Other Resources |
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