The Finnish Spitz Dog Breed Interesting Facts And Advice

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The Finnish Spitz makes a great family dog. She likes older children and is generally good with other pets. She needs plenty of daily walks or a properly fenced in yard for exercise. She does not have a dog odor but can tend to be a barker. She is extremely healthy for a purebred and she is the national dog of Finland. Approximate Adult Size The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male and female Finnish Spitz is 15 to 20 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 30 to 35 pounds. Special Health Considerations Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Finnish Spitz is no exception. Although she is considered a very healthy breed, be on the look out for canine hip dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), and patella luxation (congenital condition in which the kneecap dislocates). This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list. She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets. Grooming The Finnish Spitz has a double coat, a long hard outer coat and a soft dense undercoat. She sheds heavily seasonally. Her coat is pretty much self cleaning but she still should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat and help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her. Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease. Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net. Life Span The Finnish Spitz can live between 12 and 14 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions. History The Finnish Spitz was bred to hunt elk and bear. They were originally called the Finnish Hunting Dog. They were later turned into bird dogs. She is the national dog of Finland. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1991.

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