Group
4: Hound |
Energy
Level: Moderate - high |
Original
Function: hunting birds and small mammals
Temperament:
Lively, vigorous, brave and determined. Possibly a little reserved
towards strangers but never vicious.
Characteristics:
their acute senses are utilised to find and alert the huntsman
to the presence of his prey (generally birs, ducks).
Recommended
for: Active people & families.
Lifespan:
12 years.
Height:
Ideal males 47 cm [18.5 ins] |
Height:
Ideal females 42 cm [16.5 ins] |
Colour:
The hair on the back is red or golden brown, preferably bright.
A lighter shade inside the ears, on cheeks, throat, chest, belly,
inside the legs, back of the thighs and on the tail. A white stripe
on the chest and small white markings on the feet are permitted.
Coat:
Rather long on the body, semi-erect or erect, stiffer on the
neck and back. On the head and legs, except at the back of the hindquarters,
short and close-lying. The stiff hair on the shoulders, especially
in males, is noticeably longer and coarser. On the back of the thighs
(trousers) and on the tail, the hair is long and dense. The undercoat
is short, soft, dense and light in colour.
General
Appearance: Medium sized, deep chested body. Eyes dark,
lips & nose black. Pointed & erect ears. Tail bushy &
curls over onto the back.
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This breed is originally from
Finland. Where their name is Suomenpystykorva. Suomen is the deduction
Finnish from Finland and Pystykorva describes a prick-eared dog.
Suomenpystykorva carry their name with pride because it were Hugo
Roos and Hugo Sandberg who strenghten the genetic pool of these
dogs in Suomi. Actions from this two people prevented a further
mingle of the Finnish Spitz with other Spitz breeds.
They used these dogs for hunting birds and squirrels, which was
essential food for their masters. They are an independent dog so
firm training is needed but not harsh discipline. They will reach
their mental mature age at about 4 years old. Do not expect a dog
that lies down at your feet awaiting for some action. The Finnish
Spitz is self contained. He is alert on his enviroment and will
not bark unless something is wrong or unexpected and of course when
he sees a bird. They make lovely home companions and can be good
with children. They can be good watchdogs.
Grooming-
a self-cleaning coat but a regular brush over and a comb through
is still necessary. Needs to be brushed daily when moulting to free
the undercoat (usually for a few weeks twice a year).
Exercise-
Generally an adult will take as much exercise as you care to give
it, but will be quite content and remain fit with a minimum of a
30 - 60 minute walk and a well fenced garden to run in.
Health-
For Diet and other general dog health information Health/Nutrition
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