The Tibetan Terrier Dogs, by nature, are gentle and loving. They are so charming that anybody would want to take one home. They love a quiet life inside the house and are loyal companions. They also love to adventure outside either hiking or walking. The Tibetan Terriers are friendly towards other dogs and pets, but a little reserved when strangers are around.

The Origin of the Tibetan Terrier Dogs

The origin of the Tibetan Terrier dogs is a mystery as no one knows exactly where they came from. It is believed that the breeding of these dogs took place inside Lamaist monasteries about 2000 years ago. This breed was used to help with tasks. However, their main purpose was to be companions and holy dogs referred to as “bringers of luck”.

Perhaps you have heard some miraculous stories about the Tibetan Terrier Dogs. In one of these stories it is said that during the 14^th century an earthquake completely destroyed the route to the valley blocking off the village where these dogs lived. Many people were killed attempting to cross treacherous pathways. It is said that those who carried a Tibetan Terrier were able to cross over safely.

The Tibetan Terrier Dogs were held in such high regard that not one of them was ever sold. The only time that one of these dogs left Tibet was in 1920 when one of them was given to Dr. Grieg as a special gift. He was the only person that was responsible for continuing to breed these dogs and bringing them to the attention of the world.

The first time the Tibetan Terriers got recognition away from home was in India. Then, in 1937, they competed in English dog shows. In the 1950s, the Tibetan Terriers arrived in the United States of America.

In 1973, the American Kennel Club officially recognized these dogs.

Caring for the Tibetan Terrier Dogs

The Tibetan Terrier Dogs are the ideal pets to have inside the house just relaxing and sitting quietly by your side. They also love to be outside running and looking for adventure. In order for these dogs to remain healthy and in good shape they need to take a few walks on the leash every day. They also enjoy playing some fun games in the yard.

Even though the Tibetan Terriers are comfortable in warm and cool temperatures, they should not be allowed to live outside. These dogs can live completely inside the house. But they can also live inside and have access during the day, to a fenced-in area outside. The Tibetan Terriers become very attached to their families and are very good watchdogs.

They need to get a good brushing of their shaggy coats at least two times a week.

Health Care Issues of the Tibetan Terrier Dogs

The two major health issues that are common in the Tibetan Terrier Dogs are PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) and lens luxation. Minor health issues are CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia), hypothyroidism, cataracts, patellar luxation and ceroid lipofuscinosis. Distichiasis is rare in these dogs.

It is recommended by veterinarians that these dogs be checked for hip, eye and thyroid problems.

A healthy Tibetan Terrier can live between twelve and fifteen years.

By nature, the Tibetan Spaniel Dogs are independent and stubborn but at the same time loving and affectionate. Sometimes they are sensitive to loud noise and harsh yelling. These small dogs are very good house dogs that enjoy going out with the family every day or are satisfied just to cuddle up in the couch.

The Tibetan Spaniels are extremely friendly with other dogs and pets but reserved with strangers. They make very good watchdogs that will bark when strange people or intruders are around.

The Origin of the Tibetan Spaniel Dogs

The Tibetan Spaniel Dogs, as their name suggests, originated from Tibet since ancient times. The Buddhists have a high regard for these dogs in the same manner that they regard the lion as their most important symbol.  Lion-like dogs were bred and held in the highest regard in the same way that the symbol of the lion was highly respected.

The Lama Masters held these small lion dogs in high esteem and as sacred as the lion. The Chinese also produced their own lion dogs which are known today as the Pekingese. Interbreeding other dogs commenced when several countries were encouraged to present their own lion dogs.

To produce the Tibetan Spaniel Dogs, breeding was done within the monasteries. Only the smallest dogs were used to produce this breed that was used as decorative symbols. These dogs also served to alert the monastery of any strange persons or dangerous wolves that lingered nearby.

It wasn’t until the late 1800s that the first Tibetan Spaniel Dog arrived in England. Breeding began when the Griegs, who were well known enthusiasts of this breed, obtained several of these dogs. During World War II, the breeding process of these dogs suffered a great loss and only one dog survived. The name of this dog was Skyid and now, almost all modern Tibetan Spaniel dogs pedigree are connected to Skyid.

The Tibetan Spaniel Dogs arrived in the United States of America in 1960. Then, in 1984, these sacred dogs were recognized by the American Kennel Club. These dogs were not very popular with the American Kennel Cub but they were very well liked by those people who were very fortunate to own one.

Caring for the Tibetan Spaniel Dogs

The Tibetan Spaniel does not require much exercise. A few walks on the leash every day would be adequate.   Allowing them space inside the house to run about would also be stimulating. These dogs are ideal for apartments but they also love to play outdoors with their owners.

The Tibetan Spaniel Dogs need their long coats to be brushed two times a week.

Health Care of the Tibetan Spaniel Dogs

The Tibetan Spaniel Dogs do not have any major health issues. Some minor health concerns are cataracts and patellar luxation.PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) and portacaval shunt are rare in these dogs.

It is recommended by veterinarians that the Tibetan Spaniels be checked for eye and knee problems. A healthy Tibetan Spaniel can live between twelve and fifteen years.

The Shiba Inu Dogs have a bold character, are independent and full of confidence. These dogs are active and love to adventure when outdoors but are calm and mild-mannered when inside the house. These types of dogs are among the best to have around the house. The Shiba Inu make very good watch dogs because they bark a lot especially when intruders are around.

The origin of the Shiba Inu Dogs

The Shiba Inu dogs, being one of six native Japanese breeds, are believed to be one of the most ancient of these dogs. They were nicknamed “Little Brushwood Dog” because of their red coat that blends in with the local brushwood trees. These dogs were used to hunt and flush out small animals.

It is not known exactly where the Shiba Inu Breed originated but it is known that they share a bloodline with the Spitz Dog. It is believed that the Shiba Inu dogs that were used as hunting companions throughout Japan, have roots that go as far back as 300 B.C. In addition to hunting small animals and flushing out birds, they were used to hunt wild boars.

At one time there were three types of these dogs. They were named after their local areas and were known as the Sanin Shiba, the Mino Shiba and the Shinshu Shiba. Regrettably, most of them were killed during World War II and in the early part of 1952 more of these dogs died because of distemper.

Several types of dogs were cross bred in order to keep the Shiba Inu Dogs from becoming extinct. Eventually, their breeding efforts became successful by using lighter boned dogs and crossing them with heavy boned dogs from the mountain areas. In 1954, the United States of America got their first Shiba Inu Dog and in 1993 these dogs were recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Caring for the Shiba Inu Dogs

The Shiba Inu Dogs require a lot of exercise every day to keep them happy. Even though this Breed of Dogs is small, they have a huge amount of energy which they need to burn. Taking them for long walks on the leash and letting them run around in the yard every day is very good for them. Most of all, they love to chase and hunt small prey.

Because the Shiba Inu Dogs can withstand warm temperatures and very cool weather, they can enjoy being outside a lot, but they should not be left outside altogether. If you have a fenced-in yard where your dog can roam about freely all day, make sure that your pet has a warm shelter. It is necessary to groom the Shiba Inu dogs once or twice a week by brushing their coat.

Health Concerns  for the Shiba Inu Dogs

The only major health problem that is common among the Shiba Inu Dog Breed is patellar luxation. Some minor health problems include allergies and cataracts. PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia), PPM (Persistent Pupillary Membrane) and distichiasis are problems that are rare in these dogs.

It is recommended by veterinarians that the Shiba Inu Dogs get checked for eye, hip and knee problems. If well taken care of, a healthy Shiba Inu Dog can live from twelve to fifteen years.

The behavior of the Schipperke Dogs is one that can be considered as being courageous, independent, playful and very loving. These dogs make very good companions. Schipperke dogs are strong headed and enjoy being busy. Because they are very easy to train, they make very good house pets. The Schipperke Dogs are somewhat friendly to other dogs and pets but are cautious with people that they are not familiar with.

The origin of the Schipperke Dog Breed

Although there is still some controversy about the exact origin of the Schipperke Dog Breed, most people believe that they originated in Belgium as far back as the 1600.It was first believed that these dogs were boat dogs that were used to do different jobs for boatmen who traveled between Antwerp and Brussels.

Because the word “schip” means” boat” in Flemish, most people believed that the name Schipperke referred to these dogs as little boatmen. In Belgium these dogs were known as “Spitz”. Some people also believed that these dogs were used as watchdogs and ratters for the middle class and tradesmen.

Although we may not be sure of the origin of the Schipperke dogs, their existence was not documented until sometime in 1960. In Brussels these dogs participated in local competitions sponsored by their owners. Their popularity increased tremendously until almost every household had one of these dogs. Several Schipperke dogs came to the United States in the late 1880s. Since then their popularity has been slowly increasing.

Care for the Schipperke Dogs

Schipperke dogs should be stimulated both mentally and physically because they always need to be busy. Because the Schipperke dogs are small dogs, a few brisk walks on the leash together with some playtime either indoors or outdoors would be sufficient exercise for them. These dogs love to look for something to do even when they are relaxing.

These dogs do not do well in the heat, but do very well in cool temperatures. They should not be left outside to live altogether, but should be allowed to sleep indoors with the family. These dogs love to be busy, so ideally they should have access to a fenced-in yard during the day. You should brush these dogs thoroughly at least once a week.

Health Problems for the Schipperke Breed

The only major health problem connected with the Schipperke dogs is MPS IIIB. Minor health problems could include hypothyroidism, epilepsy and Legg-Perthes. Occasionally, PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), distichiasis, CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia), and entropion may occur. It is recommended that you have your Schipperke tested for DNA for MP IIIB, thyroid and hip problems. With the proper care and attention, a healthy Schipperke dog may live between thirteen and fifteen years.

This Breed has been used as military dogs, guide dogs, guard dogs and were also used to pull wagons for performers. In time, they were also used to perform in circuses. It soon became fashionable for women to have these dogs as companions.

They then became popular with the French aristocrats and became the official dog of France. In the late 1800s the Poodles first participated in dog shows. Since then, they have become the most popular house pets.

Poodle dogs can be either the standard type or the miniature type. The miniature Poodle dogs are very friendly, intelligent and obedient. They are also very eager to please. They are very sensitive dogs and can be quite loyal to their owners. The Poodle dogs are good with children and get on very well with other household pets.

The standard Poodle type of dogs are said to be the smartest and most obedient of any dog breed. This type of dogs have a personality that is both playful and adventurous, which makes them very endearing to a lot of people. They love to run, swim and fetch. They are also very good around children and make good house pets.

Care and Attention for the Poodle Dogs

Both types of Poodle dog breeds need a lot of human interaction. They should have daily exercise which should include brisk walks and mental games. They both enjoy retrieving games, especially if played in shallow water. Of course, it is important to note that the standard type of these dogs need more exercise than the miniature type.

Poodle dogs should not be kept outside but should be allowed to live indoors with the family where they are more comfortable. They are really happier dogs with people around them. These dogs thrive on the love and attention of their owners. Poodles love to be held and petted.

Health Concerns for the Poodle Dogs

Standard Poodle dogs may suffer from Addison’s disease, gastric torsion and sebaceous adenitis while the miniature type could develop problems with Legg-Perthes, PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), patellar luxation and epilepsy.

It is recommended that both types be tested by a veterinarian for hip dysplasia, DNA for VWD (Von Willebrand’s Disease) and for any eye problem. Both types of Poodle dogs can live for about thirteen years.

Quick Stats for the Lowchen Dog Breed

• Height (at the shoulders): 10 – 13 inches (25 – 33 cm)
• Weight: 9 – 18 pounds (4 – 8 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 14 years
• AKC Group: Non-Sporting – AKC recognized in 1996
• Shedding: sheds little to no hair; good for dog allergy sufferers
• Living Conditions: good for apartments; very active indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of the Lowchen Dog

The Lowchen is a wonderful companion dog for a quiet family that enjoys having a lovable and high-spirited small dog around the house. With their high energy levels and friendly attitude towards people and other animals, this dog is a ball of fun to have around, always willing to please. They are considered to be easily trainable.

Additionally, the Lowchen makes an excellent watchdog, similar to most small dog breeds.

History of the Lowchen Dog Breed

Pronounced “Lerv-chun”, the Lowchen name means “Little Lion Dog”. This dog breed shares its roots with several other members of the Bichon family, such as the Havanese and Bichon Frise.

Where the Lowchen came from is still unknown, even though several countries have all claimed to have created the breed (France, Russia, and Germany). We do know that dogs which resembled the Lowchen, with its noticeable lion trim, were found in German artwork from the 16th century.

Traditionally, the lion trim look came with the coat clipped short from the dog’s last rib all the way down to the hock joint, including the hindquarters. The front legs are shaved from the elbow to slightly above the dog’s pastern. The feet are also clipped and approximately one half of the tail is shaved. Whatever long hair is left over is left ‘as is’.

The Lowchen dog breed almost vanished during the 1960s when its numbers had slipped down to almost none. Fortunately, through the help of two dog enthusiasts, the Lowchen was revived when this group of breeders imported a handful of related dogs from Germany and moved them to Britain. The animals were in such small numbers that they had to be interbred extensively which helped form the base for today’s Lowchen breed in both Britain and in the United States.

The survival of the Lowchen dogs proved to be successful and the breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1996.

The Lowchen Care and Grooming

Because of its small size, the Lowchen can have its exercise requirements fulfilled with a short walk or brief play sessions on a daily basis. These dogs also enjoy mental stimulation and fun games.

Lowchens are not meant to live outside but it does appreciate having the freedom to roam in an enclosed yard if possible.

Grooming does require a little work, with a thorough brushing every other day. To keep its traditional lion trim, Lowchen dogs will need clipping every couple of months.

These dogs shed little to no hair and great for people who suffer from allergies.

Health Problems of the Lowchen Breed

The average life expectancy of the Lowchen is about twelve to fourteen years.

There are no major health concerns for this dog breed.

Minor health issues include:

• patellar luxation

Image courtesy of Grant and Caroline’s pix via Flickr

Quick Stats for the Lhasa Apso Dog Breed

• Height (at the shoulders): 10 – 11 inches (25 – 28 cm)
• Weight: 13 – 15 pounds (6 – 7 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 14 years
• AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1935
• Shedding: sheds very little
• Living Conditions: good for apartments; very active indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of the Lhasa Apso Dog Breed

The Lhasa Apso is an elegant member of the Non-Sporting Group. The appearance of this dog cannot be mistaken. With its long flowing coat and small stature, the Lhasa Apso makes the perfect companion for individuals that enjoy a small house pet, yet one with the personality and boldness of a guard dog.

Lhasa Apsos are affectionate, assertive, highly intelligent, devoted and active. They are loyal to their loved ones but are weary of strangers.

Families with small children may reconsider adopting a Lhasa Apso, as they do not like to be handled improperly. If you have small children and do want a Lhasa Apso, be sure to teach your children before adopting a puppy to respect the family dog and to not mistreat it.

Another key to stopping a problem before it starts is to be sure to socialize your Lhasa Apso very early on. This is key with this breed as they do tend to have problems with strangers, other pets and children.

It can be difficult to train Lhasa Apsos. Do not give up on training your animal though and remember that Lhasa Apsos love treats, so it may be best to go the motivational training route.

History of the Lhasa Apso Dog Breed

Bred as guard dogs to noblemen and monks because of their excellent hearing, the Lhasa Apso is originally from Tibet.

The Lhasa Apso was so prized, the dog could not be purchased or adopted, and it was given out only as gifts from the Tibetan ruler. They were very important to their masters as they could hear strangers and intruders coming and would alert their human if they felt the presence was threatening.

These dogs were also used as dependable watchdogs in monasteries. They would sound off the alert through barking when visitors approached. This service gave rise to the nickname “Abso Seng Key”, which means the Bark Lion Sentinel Dog.

When the breed made its way to England they were known as the Lhassa Terrier, even though it was not a terrier in any way, shape or form. The name Lhasa Apso is the breed’s western name, said to have been derived from its native name.

The first Lhasa Apso dogs made their way to the United States sometime during the early 1930s.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1935 as a member of the Non-Sporting Group.

The Lhasa Apso Dog Breed Care and Grooming

Despite the small size of the Lhasa Apso, this dog needs a moderate amount of daily exercise to keep it happy. These exercise requirements can be met with several brisk walks on the leash or simply running around the living room. Play sessions outdoors are also acceptable so long as the area is safe.

This breed is not meant to live outside. They were originally bred for companionship and should stay that way. Apartment living is best suited for the Lhasa Apso.

Grooming requirements consists of a thorough brushing every other day to keep its long coat neat and clean.

These small dogs have long, silky coats that hang to the bottom of their paws. Their fur color can range from slate gray to white to brown or an amber color and often changes in color from puppy to adult. Lhasa Apsos have plumed tails and curls on their backs. They have deeply set eyes that are often covered by the fur from their head and their muzzles are of medium length.

Health Problems of the Lhasa Apso Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Lhasa Apso Dog Breed is about twelve to fourteen years, although there have been dogs that have been known to live as long as eighteen years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• patellar luxation

Minor health issues include:

• distichiasis
• entropion
• renal cortical hypoplasia
• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• vWD (Von Willebrand’s Disease)
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• sebaceous adenitis
• urinary stones
• bleeding ulcers

Veterinarians recommend having the Lhasa Apso Dog Breed tested specifically for knee and eye problems.

Image via Wikipedia

Quick Stats for the Keeshond Dog Breed

• Height (at the shoulders): 17 – 19 inches (44 – 48 cm)
• Weight: 55 – 65 pounds (25 – 29 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1930
• Shedding: heavy shedder twice per year
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); best with average sized yard (minimum); prefer cool climates; do not like extreme heat

Personality of the Keeshond Dog Breed

The Keeshond is one of the most affectionate and friendliest members of the Non-Sporting Group. This dog has the physical appearance of a fluffy, square-shaped Northern-type breed. The coat is harsh and long, perfect for withstanding cool temperatures.

The temperament of the Keeshond can be summed up in one word: loving. These dogs are as tender and affectionate as can be, not only towards its family members but also with other dogs and pets in the house. However, do not let this soft-hearted temperament fool you – the Keeshond also makes a great watchdog and will bark incessantly at incoming intruders.

History of the Keeshond Dog Breed

The Keeshond has its roots from the Netherlands, dating back to the 1700s. However, the exact history of the breed is not documented. We do know that it was widely popular in Holland since the 18th century, owned by families as companions and devoted watchdogs.

Several years before the French Revolution the breed got twisted into the affairs discussed around the political events of the time. This was due largely in part from a man named Kees de Gyselaer, who was the leader of the Patriot faction. He owned a large number of these dogs and used them in so many political cartoons that the dogs became known as Patriot symbols.

Unfortunately, since this party did not win, many owners of Keeshond dogs got rid of their pets, not wanting to have anything affiliating them with the losing party. However, the breed did survive in enough numbers to continue. By 1925 the Keeshond made its way to England.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1930 as a member of the Non-Sporting Group .

The Keeshond Dog Breed Care and Grooming

This is a moderately active breed that can get its exercise requirements from a few brisk walks on the leash and some playtime, both in or outside the home. They are compact enough in size to make ideal house dogs, but always appreciate a romp outside. The Keeshond is an overly-social dog that enjoys interacting with other dogs and people.

With its harsh coat, the ideal climate for the breed is in cool locations. They do not tolerate heat well and can live outdoors if need be. However, Keeshond dogs are meant to be companions and should sleep inside at night with the family. Grooming requirements call for a good brushing two to three times weekly.

Health Problems of the Keeshond Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Keeshond Dog Breed is about twelve to fifteen years.

There are no major health concerns for this breed.

Minor health issues include:

• epilepsy
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• patellar luxation
• skin problems

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• renal cortical hypoplasia
• mitral valve insufficiency
• tetralogy of Fallot

Veterinarians recommend having the Keeshond Dog Breed tested specifically for knee, hip, and cardiac problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

• Height (at the shoulders): 12 inches (30 cm)
• Weight: 19 – 22 pounds (9 – 10 kg)  and 22 – 28 pounds (10 – 13 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1898
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: good for apartments; fairly active indoors; okay without a yard; not good with extreme temperatures

Personality of the French Bulldog Breed

The French Bulldog is a fun-loving, clownish lapdog that enjoys playtime and being the center of attention. They love to cuddle and curl up next to you. These dogs are extraordinarily sweet, willing to please, and make great companions for anybody. They are slightly stubborn when it comes to training but once conditioned through obedience lessons,

French Bulldogs can make great trainees.

History of the French Bulldog

The Bulldog was extremely popular in England during the 19th century, particularly around the area of Nottingham. Most of these dogs were very small, weighing in at less than 25 to 30 pounds. They made their way to France when a large number of lace workers headed to the area for work and brought their small toy Bulldogs with them.

The Frenchwomen absolutely adored these little dogs, specifically the ones that had erect ears. This feature of the ears were very common, but most people did not like this look back in England. Soon enough, many more of these clown-like looking dogs were brought to France by dog dealers, which were referred to as Bouledogue Francais.

As their popularity grew, the breed had caught the attention of wealthy families throughout the entire upper class. You could find French Bulldogs in some of the most prestigious homes throughout France. It was during this same time period that American travelers who were visiting France brought several Bulldogs back to the United States and began breeding them.

Soon an entire American club was created for this dog and 1898 they had sponsored one of the most popular and elegant dog shows that was ever displayed. This dog show was specifically for French Bulldogs and had attracted large numbers of wealthy spectators which helped the breed’s popularity skyrocket in America. Their popularity among the rich continued to soar and the French Bulldog was rated the most popular show dog in the United States in 1913.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1898 as a member of the Non-Sporting Group.

The French Bulldog Care and Grooming

French Bulldogs are quite small and like most toy-sized dogs, physical exercise can be met through a nice walk on the leash or a romp through the house. These dogs do not do well in hot weather but can take the cold if necessary. This is one breed that should be living indoors at all times. Also keep in mind that these dogs tend to wheeze, snore, and drool.

Grooming care is minimal, with the occasional brushing once weekly. However the facial wrinkles should be cleaned on a daily basis.

Health Problems of the French Bulldog Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the French Bulldog is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• intervertebral disk disease
• brachycephalic syndrome
• dog allergies

Minor health issues include:

• hemivertebra
• patellar luxation

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

French Bulldog (Dog Breeds)

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• Height (at the shoulders): 15 – 20 inches (38 – 51 cm)
• Weight: 31 – 35 pounds (14 – 16 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1991
• Shedding: seasonal heavy shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); relatively inactive indoors; okay without a yard (with sufficient exercise)

Personality of the Finnish Spitz Dog

Finnish Spitz dogs make excellent watchdogs and have average-to-medium levels of playfulness, affection, and energy. You will find that these dogs are not very friendly towards strangers and other pets, but their cold temperament towards outsiders makes them a loyal protector to its family.

This dog is very independent and a bit stubborn, but also alert and inquisitive. They are generally good with children and other pets from the same household, but will bark incessantly when strangers approach.

History of the Finnish Spitz

Today’s Finnish Spitz dog stems from its ancestors, northern Spitz dogs, which were owned by Finno-Ugrian tribes traveling across the lands of Eurasia and Finland. It is theorized that these early dogs were used as watchdogs. Soon after, they were used to help assist hunters.

While most dog breeds experience crossbreeding through time, this dog remained pure due to isolation. It was not until the early part of the 1800s that interbreeding with other dogs became common practice once introduced into the region. In fact, interbreeding almost wiped out the original pure Finnish Spitz.

The bloodline was saved thanks to a couple of Finnish sportsmen who saw a pack of these dogs that had apparently not been mixed with other breeds.  They were so impressed by the look of the Finnish Spitz that they decided to rescue and save the original breed.

During this time, several names were introduced to describe the Finnish Spitz. Suomenpystykorva was one of them.  It meant “Cock Eared Dog”. Another name that was used was the Finnish Barking Bird Dog.

When introduced to England they were called Finsk Spet dogs.  However, in 1891, the name was officially changed over to the Finnish Spitz and inherited the name “Finkie” in England during the 1920s.

It was not until the late 1960s that the Finnish Spitz was breeding in the United States.  Finnish Spitz dogs of today are mostly considered to be household pets in the U.S. but are still used to hunt in Finland. They hunt such animals as the black grouse and the capercaille bird.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1991 as a member of the Non-Sporting Group.

The Finnish Spitz Dog Breed Care

Upkeep of the Finnish Spitz requires daily exercise needed from long walks or runs outside. Having a large fenced-in area for this dog to roam is recommended. Due to its hunting ancestry, you must be careful not to let this dog roam by itself without a leash in an area that will attract it towards scent hunting. It will run off on its own if not well trained.

You can keep this dog outdoors due to its high tolerance towards cold, but as all pets prefer, your Finnish Spitz will appreciate and enjoy sleeping inside with the rest of the family.

Health Problems of the Finnish Spitz Breed

The average life expectancy of the Finnish Spitz is about twelve to fifteen years.

Amazingly, there are no major or minor health concerns for this breed.

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• epilepsy
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• patellar luxation

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Finnish Spitz: Specia Rare-Breed Edtion : A Comprehensive Owner’s Guide

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