Finnish Spitz

Breed Type: Non-Sporting
Common nicknames: Finkie, Finsk Spets, Finnish Hunting Dog
Coat: Double
Hypoallergenic: No, they will likely trigger allergies.
Temperament: Affectionate, playful, adaptable, intelligent
Life expectancy: 13-15 years
Color & patterns: Red
Hero image
Finnish Spitz - red
Finnish Spitz - red
Finnish Spitz - red
The Finnish Spitz is a charming medium-sized breed with a vibrant red coat and fox-like appearance. With their cheerful and alert natures, they make excellent family companions and watchdogs. They are known for their distinctive barks, which makes them great at alerting their owners to potential threats, and are often referred to as the “barking bird-dog.” These pups do best when they receive plenty of mental and physical stimulation through activities like hiking, jogging, and participating in dog sports. The Finnish Spitz is the perfect choice for those seeking a spirited, active companion.

Finnish Spitz characteristics

Learn about about Finnish Spitz basics like their fur colors, shedding levels, how much grooming they need, and other Finnish Spitz facts.

Average height

15-20 inches (38.1-50.8cm)

Average weight

23-48 pounds (10.4-21.8 kg)

Average lifespan

13-15 years

Exercise needs
Low-key activityHigh-energy workouts
Grooming needs
OccasionallyFrequently
Full-grown size
Teeny tinySuper size
Good with cats
Likely to chaseHey, new pal!
Good with kids
Needs lots of supervisionReady to play
Training aptitude
HeadstrongEager to please
How big do Finnish Spitz get?

Finnish Spitzes are medium-sized dogs, most weighing 23 to 48 pounds and standing between 15 and 20 inches tall. Males tend to be larger than females.

When do Finnish Spitz stop growing?

Finnish Spitzes stop growing around 12 to 18 months of age. Even after they’ve reached their full height, some dogs will continue to fill out and gain muscle mass until about two years of age. Regular exercise and proper nutrition are important to ensure healthy development during this early growth period.

What colors do Finnish Spitzes come in?

The Finnish Spitz is a golden red color, though they are often born dark gray or black. Their coats range in color from a light, creamy buff to a rich, dark red.

How much do Finnish Spitzes shed?

Finnish Spitzes are moderate to heavy shedders. They have a double coat: a dense, soft undercoat and a longer outer coat. To keep their thick coats healthy, the Finnish Spitz needs regular brushing, but they’re a low-maintenance breed in terms of grooming.

Finnish Spitz temperament

Learn about about the Finnish Spitz temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

Are Finnish Spitzes good with kids?

Yes, Finnish Spitzes are good with kids. They tend to make eager playmates who are patient with spontaneous behavior and enjoy interactive play.

As with any breed, always supervise interactions between children and Finnish Spitzes to keep everyone safe. Teaching children how to properly approach and handle dogs is crucial to ensure positive experiences for both the dog and the child, as is teaching dogs how to interact gently with children.

Are Finnish Spitzes good with cats?

No, Finnish Spitzes aren’t always good with cats as they have a strong prey drive due to their hunting background and have an instinct to chase small, furry things — including the family feline. If they are introduced properly and socialized from a young age, however, chances are good your cat and a Finnish Spitz can get along just fine.

Are Finnish Spitz good with other dogs?

Finnish Spitzes are good with other dogs, provided they are properly socialized from a young age. In general, their friendly and playful nature leads to positive interactions with other dogs, but this breed’s strong prey drive can sometimes influence their behavior around smaller or more active dogs. Additionally, each Finnish Spitz has its own personality; many are sociable and enjoy the company of other dogs, while others are more reserved or dominant. Observe your Finnish Spitz’s interactions with other dogs to help ensure harmonious and happy relationships.

Do Finnish Spitzes bark?

Yes, Finnish Spitzes bark. This is a breed revered for their vocalization, stretching back to their history as hunting dogs when they barked to alert hunters to game they found. Their vocal ability has not diminished with their modern role as a companion dog. The Finnish Spitz is expressive, barking to get attention, alert their families to visitors, or simply to communicate their excitement or needs. As with any dog, however, they can be discouraged from barking as frequently with proper training and exercise.

Are Finnish Spitzes easy to train?

Finnish Spitzes are moderately easy to train. These smart dogs have an independent spirit and will respond well to consistency, patience, positive reinforcement, and lots of mental stimulation. Engaging them with various activities, puzzles, and games can help keep their interest during training. Keep in mind that training any dog takes substantial time and effort, regardless of breed.

Are Finnish Spitz intelligent?

Yes, Finnish Spitzes are intelligent. They are quick learners and can pick up commands and tasks easily. Their intelligence and energetic and alert nature make them responsive to training and eager to engage in new activities.

Are Finnish Spitz friendly?

Yes, Finnish Spitzes are friendly. These dogs tend to be warm and affectionate, sociable and playful. They can be outgoing and eager to interact with both familiar faces and new acquaintances.

Are Finnish Spitz good for first-time pet parents?

The Finnish Spitz is good for a first-time pet parent prepared to meet their grooming, training, and exercise needs. For those ready to regularly brush their Finnish Spitz, train them with patience and plenty of positive reinforcement, and provide regular mental and physical stimulation, their warm and frisky nature makes a rewarding companion for a first-time pet parent.

Are Finnish Spitz good apartment dogs?

Yes, Finnish Spitzes are good apartment dogs. This medium-sized dog is suitable for the scale of apartment living, provided their exercise and mental stimulation needs are met. Interactive toys, puzzles, playtime, and daily walks will help a Finnish Spitz be happy in an apartment.

Are Finnish Spitzes good family dogs?

Yes, Finnish Spitzes make great family dogs. Affectionate, playful, and adaptable, the Finnish Spitz can adjust well to various living situations, whether in a house with a yard or an apartment, as long as they get enough exercise. Their friendly, sociable natures make them good companions for children — however, as with any breed, it is recommended that children are always supervised when interacting with dogs to keep both safe. Teaching children how to properly approach and handle dogs is crucial to ensure positive experiences for both the dog and the child, as is teaching dogs how to interact gently with children.

Overall, this loving, energetic companion will make a welcome addition to your family.

Finnish Spitz history

Learn about where this Finnish Spitz came from!

Where are Finnish Spitzes from?

The Finnish Spitz is from Finland. The national dog of Finland, the Finnish Spitz, is an ancient breed used by indigenous people to hunt small game like squirrels and birds. Historical records and archaeological finds suggest the Finnish Spitz has been a part of Finnish culture for centuries, with its development closely tied to the region's history and traditions.

How long do Finnish Spitz live?

Finnish Spitzes live 13 to 15 years on average. Individual lifespans vary based on factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and overall health care. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help ensure your Finnish Spitz lives a long and healthy life.

Finnish Spitz health

Learn about about the Finnish Spitz health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

Are Finnish Spitz hypoallergenic?

No, the Finnish Spitz is not hypoallergenic. They have a double coat that sheds and contributes to allergens in the home. Their longer outer coat can trap dander, while the undercoat is dense and sheds regularly.

Do Finnish Spitz have health issues?

Finnish Spitzes are, by and large, a very healthy breed with few genetic disorders, but they may experience common health issues, including: 

  • Hip and/or elbow dysplasia: Hip and elbow dysplasia are two of the most common skeletal diseases seen in dogs. They are similar diseases in which either the hip or elbow joint has grown abnormally or is misshapen. The abnormal shape prevents the joints and sockets from adequately meeting one another, resulting in rubbing and grinding instead of sliding smoothly. Though the main complication with hip dysplasia is joint instability, the abnormalities present in elbow dysplasia often result in pieces of bone and/or cartilage breaking loose and irritating the joint tissues. Over time, the rubbing from dysplasia can cause a variety of issues, such as pain, lameness, and secondary osteoarthritis. Surgery can fix the joint if diagnosed before the onset of arthritis. If you are rescuing a Finnish Spitz, have them checked out by a vet to see if they are prone to dysplasia.

  • Patellar luxation: Also known as slipped kneecaps, patellar luxation is a common problem in many dog breeds. It occurs when slight abnormalities cause the knee joint to slide in and out of place. This can cause pain and occasional lameness. Surgical treatment is available for severe cases, although many dogs lead normal lives without treatment.

  • Diabetes: This breed has an above-average propensity towards diabetes, a complex disease that prevents the body from properly regulating blood sugar levels.

  • Epilepsy: Finnish Spitzes are also prone to this seizure disorder. 

To identify some of these issues, a veterinarian may recommend hip, joint, and blood tests for your dog.

How much exercise do Finnish Spitz need?

The Finnish Spitz needs 60 to 90 minutes of physical activity per day, which can be broken up into multiple walks and play sessions. This breed thrives on variety in their exercise routine, so mix up their walks with more vigorous activities and explore new dog parks and neighborhoods to keep them interested and engaged.

Popular Finnish Spitz mixes

Some common Finnish Spitz mixes include:

  • Finnish Spitz Collie (Finnish Spitz + Collie)

  • Finnish Spitz Husky (Finnish Spitz + Siberian Husky)

  • Finnish Lab (Finnish Spitz + Labrador Retriever)

  • Finnish Spitz Shepherd (Finnish Spitz + German Shepherd

  • Finnish Spitz Pomeranian (Finnish Spitz + Pomeranian)

  • Finnish Spitz Beagle (Finnish Spitz + Beagle)

Finnish Spitz Mixes picture

Find Finnish Spitz puppies near you

Adopting a Finnish Spitz

We don't see any Finnish Spitzes available for adoption in your exact location or cities near you, but here are some adorable similar breeds in Beverly Hills, CA.

Photo of Ellen

Ellen

Icelandic Sheepdog Pomeranian

Female, 7 yrs 2 mos

West Hollywood, CA

Color
Tan/Yellow/Fawn - with White
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Not good with kids
Not good with dogs
Not good with cats
Spayed or Neutered
Story
Please click “Read More” for more info, photos and adoption fee. ##1737440##
Photo of Cady

Cady

Jindo Retriever (Unknown Type)

Female, 2 yrs

Los Angeles, CA

Color
Tan/Yellow/Fawn - with White
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Not good with kids
Good with dogs
Not good with cats
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Hi! My name is Cady, and I am IN SOUTH KOREA waiting to be matched to a home in Los Angeles! I was rescued from the dog meat trade in South Korea by the DoVE Project. My fate would have been to live in fear and distress, watching dogs being led to slaughter for human consumption. DoVE Project heard about me, and now I am looking for my forever family! ID/NAME: CARE23-052 / Cady SEX/WEIGHT/AGE: Female / 48 lbs / 11 months (as of March 1st) BIRTH DATE: April 1, 2023 BREED: Jindo mix BEHAVIOR: Cady brims with curiosity, always taking her time to observe and understand her surroundings. Cady is also very sociable -- she adores people and gets along well with dogs of all sizes. And just look at those ears! SIBLINGS/FAMILY: Penny, Bianca, Basil and others BACKGROUND: In June 2023, Watchdog conducted a raid on a notorious slaughterhouse in Cheonan, infamous for its brutal and inhumane methods of animal slaughter - particularly, the horrific practice of hanging - which had been ongoing for over three decades. The conditions within the aged facility were nothing short of devastating. Puppies were seen tumbling from suspended cages onto heaps of waste, as their helpless mothers could do nothing but watch in despair. Numerous other puppies cried out in distress, their tiny feet caught in the bars of their cages. Both dogs and goats showed clear signs of severe malnutrition. Food and water bowls were filthy with old food scraps. A thorough investigation by Watchdog uncovered substantial evidence of the harsh conditions and animal mistreatment within the facility. This evidence led the authorities in Cheonan to intervene and the owner was forced to relinquish ownership. ABOUT JINDOS Jindos are known for their fierce loyalty, high intelligence, rarely barking, and playful nature. They make great indoor family dogs, as Jindos are clean and easily housetrained, and are faithful to family members. They are also mid-level active and love being socialized at dog parks, going on hikes, and joining the family on trips. ABOUT OUR DOGS DoVE dogs come from a traumatic background such as dog meat farms and slaughterhouses. While many of our dogs acclimate within a few months with consistency, structure, and patience, some of our more sensitive dogs can take longer to rehabilitate. It's important to note that these sensitive dogs are even more attuned to human emotions and behavior, making for a deeper connection human-dog connection. DoVE Project is committed to helping our adopters desensitize and socialize our dog meat trade survivors. ********************************* DoVE Project operates a shelter in South Korea, where our dogs stay until they are matched with an adopter. In the US, our dogs stay in foster homes or in boarding, as we do not have a physical facility. These dogs are identified with "in LA" in their names. Please note that we only adopt our pups in the Southern California area. Please check our website for more information regarding our adoption process, our mission, and adoption application: https://www.dove-project.org/adoption-process If you are interested in adopting, please complete an online application at: https://www.dove-project.org/adoption-application-form.
Photo of Bianca

Bianca

Jindo Retriever (Unknown Type)

Female, 2 yrs 1 mo

Los Angeles, CA

Color
White - with Tan, Yellow or Fawn
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Not good with kids
Good with dogs
Not good with cats
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Hi! My name is Bianca, and I am IN SOUTH KOREA waiting to be matched to a home in Los Angeles! I was rescued from the dog meat trade in South Korea by the DoVE Project. My fate would have been to live in fear and distress, watching dogs being led to slaughter for human consumption. DoVE Project heard about me, and now I am looking for my forever family! ID/NAME: CARE23-055 / Bianca SEX/WEIGHT/AGE: Female / 24.3 lbs / 11 months (as of March 1st) BIRTH DATE: April 1st, 2023 BREED: Jindo mix VACCINATIONS/SPAY/NEUTER/HEALTH: Vaccinations complete / Spayed / Healthy BEHAVIOR: Bianca is a playful pup with lots of energy. Bianca loves people and enjoys getting attention and seeks lap cuddles. She gets along well with other dogs and loves to play with them, but prefers her own space when she's eating. Bianca has been doing well walking on a leash and will be a great companion for walks! SIBLINGS/FAMILY: Basil, Cady, Penny and others BACKGROUND: In June 2023, Watchdog conducted a raid on a notorious slaughterhouse in Cheonan, infamous for its brutal and inhumane methods of animal slaughter - particularly, the horrific practice of hanging - which had been ongoing for over three decades. The conditions within the aged facility were nothing short of devastating. Puppies were seen tumbling from suspended cages onto heaps of waste, as their helpless mothers could do nothing but watch in despair. Numerous other puppies cried out in distress, their tiny feet caught in the bars of their cages. Both dogs and goats showed clear signs of severe malnutrition. Food and water bowls were filthy with old food scraps. A thorough investigation by Watchdog uncovered substantial evidence of the harsh conditions and animal mistreatment within the facility. This evidence led the authorities in Cheonan to intervene and the owner was forced to relinquish ownership. ABOUT JINDOS Jindos are known for their fierce loyalty, high intelligence, rarely barking, and playful nature. They make great indoor family dogs, as Jindos are clean and easily housetrained, and are faithful to family members. They are also mid-level active and love being socialized at dog parks, going on hikes, and joining the family on trips. ABOUT SHELTER STRESS Dogs who have lived in shelters for a long period of time develop behaviors due to an environment that is loud, chaotic, and stressful, even in best shelters in the US. Dogs in shelters have limited socialization exposure to people and urban environments. DoVE dogs also come from a traumatic background such as dog meat farms and slaughterhouses. While many of our dogs acclimate within a few months with consistency, structure, and patience, some of our more sensitive dogs can take longer to rehabilitate. It's important to note that these sensitive dogs are even more attuned to human emotions and behavior, making for a deeper connection human-dog connection. DoVE Project is committed to helping our adopters desensitize and socialize our dog meat trade survivors. ********************************* DoVE Project operates a shelter in South Korea, where our dogs stay until they are matched with an adopter. In the US, our dogs stay in foster homes or in boarding, as we do not have a physical facility. These dogs are identified with "in LA" in their names. Please note that we only adopt our pups in the Southern California area. Please check our website for more information regarding our adoption process, our mission, and adoption application: https://www.dove-project.org/adoption-process If you are interested in adopting, please complete an online application at: https://www.dove-project.org/adoption-application-form.
Photo of Otis

Otis

Jindo Jindo

Male, 5 yrs 7 mos

Los Angeles, CA

Color
White
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Not good with kids
Good with dogs
Not good with cats
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Hi! My name is Otis, and I am IN SOUTH KOREA waiting to be matched to a home in Los Angeles! I was rescued from the dog meat trade in South Korea by the DoVE Project. My fate would have been to live in fear and distress, watching dogs being led to slaughter for human consumption. DoVE Project heard about me, and now I am looking for my forever family! ID/NAME: C’DT23-01 / Otis SEX/WEIGHT/AGE: Male / 61.7 lbs / 4 Years BIRTH DATE: Nov 12, 2019 BREED: Jindo mix VACCINATIONS/SPAY/NEUTER/HEALTH: Vaccinated / Neutered / Healthy BEHAVIOR: Otis the bear is timid at first, but very sweet and loyal once he is comfortable around someone. He loves being cuddled by people he trusts, and likes going for walks. SIBLINGS/FAMILY: Unknown BACKGROUND: Rescued from a slaughterhouse in November of 2021. ABOUT JINDOS Jindos are known for their fierce loyalty, high intelligence, rarely barking, and playful nature. They make great indoor family dogs, as Jindos are clean and easily housetrained, and are faithful to family members. They are also mid-level active and love being socialized at dog parks, going on hikes, and joining the family on trips. ABOUT OUR DOGS DoVE dogs come from a traumatic background such as dog meat farms and slaughterhouses. While many of our dogs acclimate within a few months with consistency, structure, and patience, some of our more sensitive dogs can take longer to rehabilitate. It's important to note that these sensitive dogs are even more attuned to human emotions and behavior, making for a deeper connection human-dog connection. DoVE Project is committed to helping our adopters desensitize and socialize our dog meat trade survivors. ********************************* DoVE Project operates a shelter in South Korea, where our dogs stay until they are matched with an adopter. In the US, our dogs stay in foster homes or in boarding, as we do not have a physical facility. These dogs are identified with "in LA" in their names. Please note that we only adopt our pups in the Southern California area. Please check our website for more information regarding our adoption process, our mission, and adoption application: https://www.dove-project.org/adoption-process If you are interested in adopting, please complete an online application at: https://www.dove-project.org/adoption-application-form.
Photo of Teddy

Teddy

Jindo Spitz (Unknown Type, Medium)

Male, 5 yrs 2 mos

Los Angeles, CA

Color
White
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Not good with kids
Good with dogs
Not good with cats
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Hi! My name is Teddy, and I am IN SOUTH KOREA waiting to be matched to a home in Los Angeles! I was rescued from the dog meat trade in South Korea by the DoVE Project. My fate would have been to live in fear and distress, watching dogs being led to slaughter for human consumption. DoVE Project heard about me, and now I am looking for my forever family! ID/NAME: CARE23-033 SEX/WEIGHT/AGE: Male/50lbs/4 years old BIRTH DATE: 3/1/2020 BREED: Jindo mix VACCINATIONS/SPAY/NEUTER/HEALTH: Neutered / Healthy BEHAVIOR: Teddy is a friendly and affectionate dog who enjoys human company. He may initially be cautious around strangers but quickly warms up to them within a day or two. Teddy also gets along with dogs of all sizes, but he may avoid highly energetic dogs. Teddy has a moderate to low energy level. Teddy is well-behaved and walks calmly on a leash. SIBLINGS/FAMILY: Teddy was rescued with his mate and 6 babies. BACKGROUND: Teddy was rescued in Paju in April 2021 along with his mate and six puppies. At the time of the rescue, the injuries he sustained appeared to have narrowly avoided decapitation and left his neck looking as though it were rotting away. It was later discovered that he had been caught in a noose and had narrowly escaped death. Teddy was unable to bark due to the pain but was very protective of his 6 puppies and their mother. The entire family was rescued together. ABOUT JINDOS Jindos are known for their fierce loyalty, high intelligence, rarely barking, and playful nature. They make great indoor family dogs, as Jindos are clean, easily housetrained, and faithful to family members. They are also mid-level active and love being socialized at dog parks, going on hikes, and joining the family on trips. ABOUT OUR DOGS DoVE dogs come from a traumatic background such as dog meat farms and slaughterhouses. While many of our dogs acclimate within a few months with consistency, structure, and patience, some of our more sensitive dogs can take longer to rehabilitate. It's important to note that these sensitive dogs are even more attuned to human emotions and behavior, making for a deeper connection human-dog connection. DoVE Project is committed to helping our adopters desensitize and socialize our dog meat trade survivors. ********************************* DoVE Project operates a shelter in South Korea, where our dogs stay until they are matched with an adopter. In the US, our dogs stay in foster homes or in boarding, as we do not have a physical facility. These dogs are identified with "in LA" in their names. Please note that we only adopt our pups in the Southern California area. Please check our website for more information regarding our adoption process, our mission, and adoption application: https://www.dove-project.org/adoption-process If you are interested in adopting, please complete an online application at: https://www.dove-project.org/adoption-application-form.
Photo of Hotaru IN LA!!

Hotaru IN LA!!

Jindo Shiba Inu

Female, 5 yrs 6 mos

Los Angeles, CA

Color
White - with Tan, Yellow or Fawn
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Not good with cats
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Hi! My name is Hotaru, and I am waiting to be adopted by my forever family! I was rescued from the dog meat trade in South Korea by the DoVE Project. My fate would have been to live in fear and distress, watching dogs being led to slaughter for human consumption. DoVE Project heard about me, and now I am looking for my forever family! ID/NAME: DV24-008 / Hotaru SEX/WEIGHT/AGE: Female / 29 lbs / 5 years BIRTH DATE: Aug 1, 2019 BREED: Jindo mix VACCINATIONS/SPAY/NEUTER/HEALTH: Fully vaccinated / Spayed / Healthy. BEHAVIOR: Hotaru, who gets called by Roo by her foster family, has been welcomed with open paws! She loves playing with her two foster fur brothers and following her human fosters throughout the house. It's so cute to see Roo gently booping other dogs with her nose to get their attention. Roo is goofy, quiet, fond of belly rubs and will sweetly give little kisses to those she is comfortable with. SIBLINGS/FAMILY: Unknown BACKGROUND: Rescued in Namyangju, South Korea in the summer of 2023. ABOUT JINDOS Jindos are known for their fierce loyalty, high intelligence, rarely barking, and playful nature. They make great indoor family dogs, as Jindos are clean and easily housetrained, and are faithful to family members. They are also mid-level active and love being socialized at dog parks, going on hikes, and joining the family on trips. ABOUT OUR DOGS DoVE dogs come from a traumatic background such as dog meat farms and slaughterhouses. While many of our dogs acclimate within a few months with consistency, structure, and patience, some of our more sensitive dogs can take longer to rehabilitate. It's important to note that these sensitive dogs are even more attuned to human emotions and behavior, making for a deeper connection human-dog connection. DoVE Project is committed to helping our adopters desensitize and socialize our dog meat trade survivors. ********************************* DoVE Project operates a shelter in South Korea, where our dogs stay until they are matched with an adopter. In the US, our dogs stay in foster homes or in boarding, as we do not have a physical facility. These dogs are identified with "in LA" in their names. Please note that we only adopt our pups in the Southern California area. Please check our website for more information regarding our adoption process, our mission, and adoption application: https://www.dove-project.org/adoption-process If you are interested in adopting, please complete an online application at: https://www.dove-project.org/adoption-application-form.