Type the name of the breed you're looking for below
[wpdreams_ajaxsearchlite] Don't see the breed your're looking for? Click here and let us know!Breed Characteristics
1 paw - breed exhibits the least amount of this characteristic
5 paws - breed exhibits most amount of this characteristic
Finnish Hound
Other Names | Suomenajokoira, Finnish Bracke, Finsk Stovare |
Country of Origin | Finland |
Weight | 45 - 55 lbs. (20 - 25 kg) |
Height (at withers) | 20 - 24 in. (52 - 61 cm) |
Coat | The coat of the Finnish Hound is short, but dense and coarse to the touch. |
Colour | Colours include tan with black saddle; small white markings on head, chest, feet and tail tip. |
Litter Size | 2-6 puppies, Average of 4 |
Life Span | 12 - 15 years |
Origin & History | The Finnish Hound was a result of a breeding programme in the 1800s, which involved French, German and Swedish hounds. The goal was to develop a hound dog that could work on hilly terrain and in deep snow. The Finnish Hound has become Finland's most popular dog breed. Although the breed is very popular in Finland and Sweden, it is quite uncommon elsewhere. |
Personality | Friendly, calm and never aggressive, yet energetic in the hunt, the Finnish Hound is used as a hunting dog for hare and fox by following the scent. Eager to hunt in difficult circumstances. He works independently, is a versatile tracker and pursues the quarry with passionate barking. Make sure you are this dog’s calm, but firm, confident pack leader to prevent behavior issues. Proper human to canine communication is essential. |
Care Requirements
Health | Finnish Hounds suffer from an inherited disease, cerebellar ataxia, forcing people to euthanize many puppies. This has been traced to a single mutation in a gene called SEL1L. Mutant cells suffer disruptions in their endoplasmic reticula, leading to disease. It is hoped that a test will be developed to screen for this mutation and eventually breed it out of the population. They are also prone to hip dysplasia. |
Grooming | The smooth, shorthaired coat is easy to keep in peak condition. Brush with a firm bristle brush, and dry shampoo occasionally. Bathe with mild soap only when necessary. The nails should be kept trimmed. These dogs are average shedders. |
Exercise | This is an energetic working dog with enormous stamina. It needs to be taken on daily, brisk, long walks, where the dog is made to heel beside or behind the human holding the lead. Never in front, as instinct tells a dog the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. It should also have plenty of opportunity to run, preferably off the leash in a safe area. |
Other Considerations | The Finnish Hound is not recommended for apartment life. It is moderately active indoors and does best with at least an average-sized yard. |