Fetch Finder

Breed guide

Finnish Spitz

Finland's national dog: a fox-red spitz famous for its loud, frequent bark. Lively and friendly.

A Finnish Spitz
Photo: Unknown author · CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
SizeMedium
Weight20–33 lb
Lifespan13–15 years
Yearly cost$1,400–$2,800*
👪 Good family dog Usually good with kids, with training and supervision.

At a glance

Energy level
Shedding
Grooming needs
Apartment-friendly
Handles cold
Affectionate / cuddly
Good with kids
Good for first-time owners
Easy to train
Good with other dogs
Good with cats
OK being left alone
Reliable off-leash
Protective / watchdog
Barking
Drooling

Great for

  • Cold climates
  • Active families
  • Rural homes

Watch out for

  • Barks a lot by design
  • Independent
  • Heavy shedding

Daily care

Exercise: About an hour a day.

Grooming: Weekly brushing; more when shedding.

Cold weather: Built for Finnish winters.

*Yearly cost covers food, routine vet care, preventatives, toys and supplies. It doesn't include the purchase or adoption fee, emergencies or grooming beyond basics.

Gear for a Finnish Spitz

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