Origin
The Finnish Spitz is an attractive dog with their red coats and fox like looks. They are Finland's national dog and although not so well known outside of their native land, they are highly prized in Scandinavian countries thanks to their charming looks and kind, courageous natures. They seem to have a natural affinity with children which makes the Finnish Spitz a great choice as a family pet and being so adaptable, they are just at home in a family environment as they are in a working one.
The ancestry of the Finnish Spitz is fascinating with Spitz-type dogs that roamed Russia for thousands of year having been used to create the breed. These ancient Russian breeds were used by tribes in the far north of Finland who developed dogs capable of working in many regions, doing specific jobs which often included hunting for food. As the breeds were developed, the Finnish Spitz as we now know it, became the favourite choice due to their superior hunting ability and courageous, loyal natures.
During the late 19th century as people moved to different areas of the country, they took their dogs with them. These Spitz-type dogs were crossed with local dogs that boasted diverse ancestries and as a result the breed was almost lost altogether and at one point in time their numbers dwindled to dangerously low levels. Fortunately, a Finnish sportsman by the name of Hugo Roos became a fan of the dogs recognising their potential as both working dogs and companions. He set up a breeding programme which saved the Finnish Spitz from extinction.
The Finnish Spitz is Finland's national dog and although not so well known outside of Scandinavia, they are still highly prized in their native land. All the dogs we see today are descendants of the foundation stock developed by Hugo Roos. Sadly, very few puppies are registered with The Kennel Club every year although the breed is popular in Holland, America, Canada, New Zealand and Australia, but less so here in the UK.
