Finnish Spitz
Lively, alert, and affectionate, Finnish Spitz are known for their fox-like appearance and cheerful personality. This vocal, spirited breed thrives as an energetic family companion.
Breed Characteristics

Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.
HEIGHT
39–50 cm (male)
36–44 cm (female)
WEIGHT
12–16 kg (male)
7–10 kg (female)
LIFE EXPECTANCY
12–15 years
Finnish Spitz: Breed snapshot
Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance

Key Breed Characteristics
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Species
Canis lupus familiaris
Diet
Omnivore
"A Finnish Spitz isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."
Temperament & personality
Understanding Finnish Spitz's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.
Personality Overview
The Finnish Spitz is typically friendly, alert, and lively, forming strong bonds with family members while remaining reserved with strangers. They are known for their vocal nature and keen senses.
Key Personality Traits
Affectionate with family, reserved with strangers
Quick learner, responds well to training
Very active, needs regular vigorous exercise
Loves games, enjoys interactive playtime
Adjusts moderately to changes in environment

Strengths
- Alert and reliable watchdog instincts
- Loyal and affectionate with family
- High endurance for outdoor activities
- Generally clean and low odor coat
- Strong hunting and tracking abilities
Challenges
- Prone to frequent vocalization and barking
- Can be independent and stubborn to train
- Needs daily mental and physical exercise
- May be reserved with strangers
- High prey drive toward small animals

Protect your Finnish Spitz
Finnish Spitz are active and energetic, but they can develop hip dysplasia and epilepsy. Get peace of mind with PetSecur's comprehensive coverage.
Intelligence & exercise needs
Finnish Spitzs are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.
🧠 Intelligence & training
Trainability
Learns with consistency
Overall rating
Finnish Spitz are intelligent and quick learners but can be independent and occasionally stubborn. Consistent, positive training methods work best, and early socialization is recommended for optimal responsiveness.
Trainable Tasks:
🏃 Exercise & energy levels
Daily Exercise
60–90 minutes daily
recommended per day
This breed has high energy and requires regular physical exercise along with mental stimulation. Daily walks, playtime, and engaging activities are important to prevent boredom and maintain their well-being.
Recommended Activities:
Is this breed right for you?
Finnish Spitzs are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Finnish Spitz would fit well in your home.
First-time Owner
Needs patient, consistent training and early socialization to thrive
Apartment Living
Tends to bark frequently and needs room to exercise daily
Active Lifestyle
Energetic and enjoys regular activity, making them suitable for active owners
Kids
Generally gentle but supervision is needed as they can be excitable around small children
Multiple Pets
May be territorial, especially with other dogs, unless socialized early
Being Left Alone
Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop behavioral issues
Breed comparisons
Wondering how Finnish Spitzs compare to other popular breeds? Check out our detailed comparison pages.
Frequently Asked Questions about Finnish Spitz
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about this breed
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