FINNISH SPITZ
Finnish Spitz
FINNISH LAPPHUND
Photo: Alice Van Kempen
History The Finnish Lapphund originally hunted reindeer and provided protection for the Sami people who lived above the Arctic Circle. When the semi-nomadic tribes established settlements in a region that included parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland and northwestern Russia, this Spitz-type dog turned from hunting reindeer to herding them. As reindeer declined, the Lapphund was invaluable in herding cattle and sheep.
History Originating in Lapland (the northern regions of Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia), the Finnish Spitz, also known as the Lapinkoira, was a hunting dog who tracked large prey such as bear and elk. For many years the breed remained pure, but as technology and transportation improved, Lapland dogs spread southwards and interbred with local dog populations. Crossbreeding deteriorated the breed so much that by 1880 the Lapinkoira was In the 1940s, Finnish breeders established nearly extinct. Finnish breed fanciers standards under the dog’s original name, searched the northern regions for the Lapponian Shepherd Dog. The name purebred examples of the breed, and by encompassed both long- and short-haired the 1890s began a concerted effort to types. Currently, it is the long-haired breed recreate the pure Finnish Spitz. we identify as the Finnish Lapphund, or the The original dogs were used to hunt Lapinkoira, as it’s sometimes called. large game, but modern Finnish Spitz are A familiar companion dog in Finnish primarily bird dogs. Called the “barking bird homes, the Lapphund’s worldwide dog”, he has a unique hunting style in which popularity is on the rise. he alerts hunters to where he finds the birds Personality The Field Spaniel’s sporting Personality The Lapphund’s strongest with a continuous bark, called a yodel. ancestry, coupled with an abiding love for trait is his tendency to herd. This is a dog Personality Reserved with strangers, yet “his people”, make the breed a desirable who likes to be in on the action, and as his playful and even clownish with friends, the family dog. Calm and affectionate, he is ancestors were capable of herding all day Finnish Spitz is a vocal breed who likes to also game for a romp. The Field Spaniel long, he thrives in an active environment. make his presence known. He is highly is intelligent, and adapts to an urban Courageous, faithful and intelligent, the loyal to his people, and can be protective or country setting. The Field Spaniel is Finnish Lapphund has an intuitive nature at times. Early socialization helps him feel sensitive, so early gentle training ensures that picks up direction almost before his comfortable with new people, though he will always show caution among strangers. his affection will extend to strangers. trainer supplies it. Like many hunting breeds, the Finnish Appearance 17-18” (43-45.5 cm) Appearance 16-20.5” (40.5-52 cm) Spitz is an athlete, and makes an excellent 35-50 lb (16-22.5 kg) 33-53 lb (15-24 kg) jogging companion as long as the weather Moderately long, flat or wavy coat. Glossy Dense, insulating double coat. All colours, isn’t too hot. with moderate feathering. with one colour dominating. Appearance 15-20” (39-51 cm) History For centuries, Spaniels have provided humans with companionship and performance. While smaller types enjoyed hearth and home, larger Spaniels flushed game from field and stream. It was only a dog’s size and job that determined a Spaniel “breed”. With the introduction of dog shows in mid-19th century Britain, breeders developed a more nuanced system. While some Spaniel types continued to work, the larger Field Spaniel found itself assigned to the show ring. The breed was a hit. But in trying to improve on perfection, breeders developed the well proportioned canine into an awkward, heavy headed dog. Health problems followed, and for a time, the breed fell out of favour. A century ago, committed breeders restored the Field Spaniel to his original build, sustaining the breed and meeting the standards that dog fanciers recognize and appreciate today.
Black, liver, golden-liver, mahogany red or Quick Facts roan. Tan markings acceptable. Exercise Requirements Grooming Quick Facts Exercise Requirements Grooming
15-35 lb (7-16 kg) Straight, long harsh outercoat. Short, soft dense undercoat. Shades of reddish brown, golden red. May have white markings. Quick Facts Exercise Requirements Grooming
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PUREBRED
FIELD SPANIEL