The Finnish Spitz is a medium sized dog. He is very agile and active and loves to be involved in all aspects of his family’s life, from hiking the back trails (safely on lead) to watching the game stretched out on the couch on a raining afternoon. He was originally bred to hunt a large turkey therefore is an independent sort, who will readily take off on an adventure should you allow him out of a fenced yard or off lead at a park. He is considered a ‘bark’ pointer by trade and when he successfully trees his prey he will bark to tell you of his great conquest. He is often vocal, voicing his thoughts to you, however, he can be trained to not bark needlessly. Because of his visual nature he should never be left in the yard unattended while you are away as he is likely to spot a bird and make himself unpopular with your neighbors. He is a hunter but can get along with other animals in the house especially if raised with them from a young age. He is smart and responds well to positive motivation training. He learns quickly but becomes bored with repetitive training. To train the Finnish Spitz you need to be positive, creative, and vary his training schedule.

The Finnish Spitz sports a beautiful red double coat which varies from light gold in color to a darker red. The undercoat is lighter and when in full condition his coat will tend to ‘glow’. He will usually shed his coat twice a year but a good brushing weekly will keep the coat clean and luxurious. The Finnish Spitz loves his family deeply. He may pretend he does not need anyone but his family is very important and his heart can be easily broken. He is loyal and mischievous and loves to share his play time with his family. Most of all he wants to be a part of your life in every way, and if given the chance will charm his way into your heart.

When considering a Finnish Spitz as a pet here are some facts to keep in mind:

1. Finnish Spitz are very smart dogs. Smart dogs need something to do or to think about to keep them busy. A bored Finnish Spitz will try to amuse itself, usually in ways that could get it into trouble. It is good to give the dog a "project" to work on while you are gone, like filling a kong toy with treats and peanut butter and giving it to the dog as you leave.
2. Finnish Spitz are hunting dogs in Finland. Their job requires them to go off alone into the forest to find the game. A Finnish Spitz WILL RUN after the sight and sound of the game animal, ignoring everything else, including a owner and a busy street in its path.
3. Finnish Spitz have high prey drives and lots of energy when outdoors. They love to chase small animals and birds.
4. These dogs need the companionship of their human families. It is good for a Finnish Spitz to have a yard to play and exercise in, but not be confined there away from its people. A lonely dog can develop some to the same behavior problems as bored dogs, like barking, digging, and inappropriate chewing.
5. Finnish Spitz shed their undercoats about twice a year. The shed takes about 1 to 3 weeks. During most of the year, twice-weekly brushing is usually enough, but during the shed, a daily thorough brushing is required to keep clumps of hair from being deposited all over the house.
6. A Finnish Spitz will bark to warn you if people, cars or dogs approach your house, but they will NOT be able to physically defend you or your home against an intruder.
7. Finnish Spitz are sweet dogs, and make great family pets, but they have a mischievous streak. They like to try to see just how much they can get away with. They will test your patience at times! They are sensitive to harsh treatment, but they will take over your house if you are too lenient. They need CONSISTENT training.

Each Finnish Spitz is different, but overall they are independent dogs. When they want to be, they are very snuggly and affectionate dogs, The rest of the time they are content to just be in view of their owner.