Finnish dog breeds love exploring the outdoors, and have thick coats, so aren’t suited to warm climates. Because of this, owners who are active and live in rural settings (or have access to the countryside), in colder climates, are the most suited to Finnish dog breeds.
Dog breeding standards are upheld in Finland by the Suomen Kennellitto, established in 1889.
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Finnish Hound
Size: Medium
Height: 52-61 cm (20-24 inches)
Weight: 20-25 kg (45-55 lbs)
Coat and Colour: Short, dense and coarse; in black, tan and white tricolour
Life Expectancy: 10-14 years
Group: Scenthound
Personality
Originally bred to hunt hare, the Finnish Hound is virtually unknown outside of its native country. They are calm, friendly and quiet dogs at home but possess an extremely powerful hunting instinct that transforms them into energetic nose followers when they are outside. Like most hounds, the Finnish Hound craves human company and attention at all times and this breed is noted for its affectionate nature towards everyone, even strangers. Their non-aggressive and gentle temperament also makes them very good around children and other dogs – although they should be watched carefully around smaller animals. Finnish Hounds make excellent family pets, provided their high exercise requirements can be met.
Finnish Lapphund
Size: Medium
Height: 41-52 cm (16-20 inches)
Weight: 15-24 kg (33-53 lbs)
Coat and Colour: Long and fluffy with a thick double coat; in any colour
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Group: Herding dog
Personality
Friendly, hardy and hardworking, the Finnish Lapphund is a typical herding dog: very sociable and affectionate but also alert, tireless and extremely intelligent. Finnish Lapphunds crave company and are quick to form bonds with people, children and other dogs. While the Finnish Lapphund makes an excellent family pet, however, they are likely to prove to be a real handful for inexperienced dog owners due to their demands for company, mental stimulation and lots of physical exercise.
Finnish Spitz
Size: Small/Medium
Height: 39-50 cm (15-20 inches)
Weight: 12-13 kg (26-29 lbs)
Coat and Colour: Medium length double coat; in gold, red gold or red
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Group: Gun dog
Personality
Otherwise known as a Finnish Hunting Dog, the Finnish Spitz is an athletic, intelligent and friendly dog, noted for its fox-like agility and quickness. This breed is very loyal to their family and their home, both of which they will watch diligently. Finkies are dedicated and affectionate towards people (and other pets) they know but naturally suspicious of strangers. However, in spite of their alert and watchful nature the Finnish Spitz is very rarely aggressive, generally choosing to bark rather than fight. They love to spend time outdoors – particularly in the snow – and are therefore recommended for active owners only.
Karelian Bear Dog
Size: Medium/Large
Height: 49-60 cm (19-24 inches)
Weight: 20-30 kg (44-66 lbs)
Coat and Colour: Straight and stiff with a soft, thick undercoat; in black with white flashing
Life Expectancy: 11-13 years
Group: Hunting dog
Personality
Highly energetic and spirited, the Karelian Bear Dog is viewed as a national treasure in Finland. This fearless breed has been used to hunt animals as large as moose, although its ability to track bears is its most prized quality. However, their natural aggression means that an experienced handler and trainer is a must: Karelian Bear Dogs are noted for their hostility towards other animals and strange people, and must be socialised and acclimatised towards anything they are likely to encounter regularly. They are, however, also extremely sociable and sensitive dogs who are prone to suffering with Separation Anxiety if left alone for long periods. This is not a dog for city living, requiring plenty of exercise in the open. This highly intelligent breed also needs a great deal of mental stimulation or a job to do to fend off boredom.
Lapponian Herder
Size: Medium
Height: 46-51 cm (18-20 inches)
Weight: 15-25 kg (33-55 lbs)
Coat and Colour: Medium length double coat; in black, dark grey or dark brown with lighter markings
Life Expectancy: 10-14 years
Group: Herding dog
Personality
Friendly, intelligent and almost completely tireless, the Lapponian Herder is an extremely demanding dog but one who, if their needs are met, makes an outstanding companion animal or family pet. They are docile, calm and eager to please dogs who are easy to train and love to have a job to do: Lapponian Herders will work non-stop from sunrise to sunset if necessary. While they can be reserved around strangers, they are generally extremely friendly and quick to make new friends. They are also very good with children. As with most herding dogs, the Lapponian Herder requires plenty of daily exercise, mental stimulation and human company.