Finnish Spitz vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

Finnish Spitz vs Australian Shepherd - Breed ComparisonFinnish Spitz is originated from Finland but Australian Shepherd is originated from United States. Finnish Spitz may grow 8 cm / 3 inches shorter than Australian Shepherd. Finnish Spitz may weigh 17 kg / 37 pounds lesser than Australian Shepherd. Finnish Spitz may live 4 years less than Australian Shepherd. Finnish Spitz may have less litter size than Australian Shepherd. Both Finnish Spitz and Australian Shepherd requires Moderate maintenance.

History

finnish spitz - historyThe “barking Bird Dog” or Finnish Spitz was Developed in Finland. The breed is fearless and small with a different style than many other hunting dogs. He style of tracking is unusual and he indicated his quarry by barking. He was bred to hunt all sizes of prey from as large as bears to as small as squirrels. He was called the “Barking Bird Dig” because he pointed at the prey by barking and giving the hunter knowledge of the prey and an easy approach to it. In Finland, the Spitz is still a hunting dog. In 1979 The Finnish Spitz became the national dog of Finland.

Spitz-like dogs have been present in Finland for over 8000 years. It is believed that dogs living in higher latitudes had more in common with the Taymyr Wolf od North Asia than with the gray wolf. Tests indicate that the chance of the Spitz being related to the Taymyr is between 1.4&a and 27.3%. The Taymyr is extinct today. This shows that the present day dog descends from more than one type of wolf and more than one area. The Spitz was a favorite of the Finno-Ugrian tribes as he helped them find food. These tribes were pretty isolated until 1880. Then the Spitz were mated with other dogs and were almost extinct as a breed separate from all the other local dogs.

However, like many other breeds the Finnish Spitz found a savior. A Finnish huntsman, named Hugo Roos, noticed the native Finnish Spitz while he was hunting up North. He decided to breed dogs that were genuine Finnish Spitz without the blood of other breeds mixed in. After thirty years the current day Finnish Spitz was born.The latest breed standard was confirmed by the Love Finnish Kennel Club in 1996.

australian shepherd - historyThe Australian Shepherd, known fondly as ‘Aussies’, is actually an American breed, with the first official registry being in the 1950s. Basque Shepherds from Spain settled in Australia at the end of the 19th century, later moving to the United Stated with their dogs in tow. It is from these dogs that the breed originated. In the UK too, this breed of dog has many enthusiastic followers.

For many years, the Australian Shepherd has been recognized for their wonderful abilities as stock- or herding dogs, and today in Australia they continue to work as stock dogs and often take part in herding trials.

More recently, this working dog breed has been selectively bred to develop both Toy- and Miniature Aussies, and the American Stock Dog Registry actually recognizes 3 sizes today.The Australian Shepherd Club of America was also founded in 1957 to promote the breed.

Description

finnish spitz puppy - descriptionThe Finnish Spitz is balanced and symmetrical in body and females are longer than males. They have a very distinguishable prick, foxy ears and face. They have a smiling expression and a curved tail. They are a golden-red color with a double coat. The under coat is dense and soft While the top coat is stiff. Puppies often look like little red fox cubs. When born they are black, grey or brown with a lot of black. As an adult the pups grow up to be a mix of fawn and dark black. Lips, nose and rims of the eyes should be black.

Coat

australian shepherd puppy - descriptionSimilar in appearance to the Border Collie, the Australian Shepherd is a medium sized dog and has a medium length coat which is straight to wavy with a weather resistant undercoat. The range of coat colours is amazing, and you’ll find blue, blue merle, black and red merle and all of these are with or without tan points. The Australian Shepherd is a drop-eared breed where prick ears are sometimes seen. Some Aussies are born with naturally bobbed tails while most have full, long tails.

Different Eye Colour Combinations

There is variety in the eye colour too, and they are often heterochromatic, which means that they can have two different coloured eyes or the one eye can even be bi-coloured. Most times the eyes are brown, but they can be blue too.

Characteristics

Children friendliness

finnish spitz dog - characteristicsVery child friendly – loves to play with children as long as the children pay attention to them. If not, the Spitz will go elsewhere.

Special talents

They are independent thinkers and close to family but not strangers. They often “yodel” instead of howl.

Adaptability

Needs to be with people, bonds deeply with his humans. Most get along well with other dogs but because of their hunting instinct they are not good with small pets or birds.

Learning ability

They are smart and learn easily. They are great athletes and learn games and competition well.

australian shepherd dog - characteristicsThe Australian Shepherd is an intelligent dog, learning quickly. As a herding dog, he also has strong guarding instincts and will make a good watch dog. The dog has a balanced, even disposition, and even though he may show some reserve, he is certainly not a shy dog and isn’t aggressive.

He Craves Human Companionship

Your Aussie is a kind, loving, and devoted pet. He loves his human family and wants to spend lots of time with them. Don’t leave him without human companionship as he craves it and forms strong bonds with his family. Provide him with good care and with lots of fun and games and you’ve got an exceptional friend for life.

Health Problems

finnish spitz puppies - health problemsTypically, a somewhat healthy breed, the Finnish Spitz does struggle with a few genetic concerns. They have been known to suffer from:

  • Elbow dysplasia – Can cause arthritis
  • Patellar luxation – movement in the knee joints can cause lameness
  • Epilepsy – seizures can be controlled with medication
  • Hip dysplasia – Just like elbow dysplasia can cause arthritis

australian shepherd puppies - health problemsAussies are a healthy breed and won’t cost you a fortune at the vet. However, like every other breed, they are also prone to certain health conditions such as cancer. When choosing a puppy, always look for a good, reputable breeder who can show you health clearances.

We look at some common health ailments to be alert about

Hip Dysplasia

This is a dog ailment that can be inherited. It is where the femur doesn't fit properly into the pelvic socket of the hip joint. Also, as the dog ages, arthritis can develop.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy an hereditary disorder where the seizures your dog gets can be treated and controlled.

Osteochondrosis Dissecans, commonly known as OCD is an orthopedic condition which comes about because of improper growth of cartilage in the joints. It can cause painful stiffening of the elbow joint for instance.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy or PRA is a degenerative eye disorder that can finally lead to blindness. Reputable Aussie dog breeders have their dogs' eyes certified regularly by a veterinary ophthalmologist.

Your Aussie Puppy Needs Vaccinations

Your newborn Australian Shepherd may well be strong and healthy, but he isn’t immune from life-threatening illnesses. Vaccinations are imperative for your Aussie puppy, with vets usually recommending that puppies be vaccinated for the first time from 6 to 8 weeks of age.

These vaccinations will include the 5-in-one and includes Parvovirus, Distemper, Hepatitis and Parainfluenza. Later on the puppy will get his first rabies shot and he will also require booster vaccinations.

Caring The Pet

Feeding the puppy

finnish spitz dogs - caringDon’t overfeed the little guy. The Spitz had a good appetite for a dog its size and can gain weight quickly . Feed twice a day about 1/8th of a cup.

Feeding the adult

The same advice hold for the adult dog. Feed 1/4th of a cub of high quality dry food twice a day.

Points for Good Health

When the Spitz is a puppy you should limit strenuous exercise and jumping. Don’t spay neuter at too young an age. Wait until they are mature at 3-5 years of age.

Games and Exercises

Again do not exercise vigorously at too young an age. When older the Finnish Spitz will need a yard to run in and exercise to satisfy his hunting instincts. A long walk every day is a must.

General Grooming

australian shepherd dogs - caringWith his medium length coat, the Australian Shepherd sheds. In fact this particular breed sheds his hair the entire year round, but you’ll notice that with the arrival of Spring, he sheds more as this is when he is losing his Winter coat. You will most certainly need to brush his coat at least 2x a week to get rid of all those tufts of hair and to also prevent matting.

Feeding

A puppy will need 4 bowls of vet-recommended food a day. How much your adult Australian Shepherd gets will depend on his age, size and activity levels.The quality of food you buy will make a difference as it will keep your Aussie in good shape. Remember to include raw or cooked meat into his diet once a week or so. For more on feeding your Aussie, speak to your vet. Always ensure a constant source of fresh, cool water.

Training and Socialization

The Australian Shepherd is a strong willed dog, used to playing the dominant role with the herding of livestock. He’ll need firm training and socialization if you want to make him an amicable family pet.

Like many herding dogs, Australian Shepherds are loyal to their family and don’t easily take to strangers. Aussies make awesome companions for families with kids who have been taught how to treat dogs and other pets with kindness and gentleness. Just like a dog needs socialization, a child needs to respect a sleeping, feeding dog and to leave him in peace.

Basic Information

Group:
Sporting dog
Herding dogs
Origin:
Finland
United States
Height Male:
45 - 50 cm
17 - 20 inches
51 - 58 cm
20 - 23 inches
Height Female:
39 - 45 cm
15 - 18 inches
46 - 56 cm
18 - 23 inches
Weight Male:
12 - 15 kg
26 - 34 pounds
25 - 32 kg
55 - 71 pounds
Weight Female:
10 - 13 kg
22 - 29 pounds
16 - 30 kg
35 - 67 pounds
Life Span:
9 - 11 Years
13 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 6
6 - 9
Size:
Medium dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Finnish Hunting Dog Finnish Spets Finsk Spets Loulou Finois Suomalainen pystykorva Suomenpystykorva
Aussie
Colors Available:
golden-red with variations from pale honey to dark chestnut
Tri-colour - blue, blue merle, black and red merle, white markings
Coat:
double
thick - medium length - straight to wavy
Shedding:
Seasonal
Constant
Temperament:
Alert, Cheerful, Energetic, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loyal
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

Comparison with other breeds

  1. French Spaniel vs Finnish Spitz - Breed Comparison
  2. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Finnish Spitz - Breed Comparison
  3. Finnish Spitz vs East Siberian Laika - Breed Comparison
  4. Finnish Spitz vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  5. Finnish Spitz vs Ariegeois - Breed Comparison
  6. Finnish Spitz vs Beagador - Breed Comparison
  7. Finnish Spitz vs English Water Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  8. Finnish Spitz vs Field Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  9. Finnish Spitz vs Artois Hound - Breed Comparison
  10. Finnish Spitz vs Curly Coated Retriever - Breed Comparison
  11. Finnish Spitz vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  12. Finnish Spitz vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  13. Finnish Spitz vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  14. Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever vs Finnish Spitz - Breed Comparison
  15. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Finnish Spitz - Breed Comparison
  16. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Finnish Spitz - Breed Comparison
  17. Shikoku vs Finnish Spitz - Breed Comparison
  18. Slovakian Hound vs Finnish Spitz - Breed Comparison
  19. Small Munsterlander vs Finnish Spitz - Breed Comparison
  20. Sussex Spaniel vs Finnish Spitz - Breed Comparison
  21. Kooikerhondje vs Finnish Spitz - Breed Comparison
  22. Welsh Springer Spaniel vs Finnish Spitz - Breed Comparison
  23. West Siberian Laika vs Finnish Spitz - Breed Comparison
  24. Wetterhoun vs Finnish Spitz - Breed Comparison
  25. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon vs Finnish Spitz - Breed Comparison
  26. Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  27. Australian Shepherd vs Australian Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  28. Australian Shepherd vs Austrailian Blue Heeler - Breed Comparison
  29. Australian Shepherd vs Australian Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  30. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  31. Bearded Collie vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  32. Collie vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  33. Dutch Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  34. Blue Healer vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  35. English Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  36. Australian Collie vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  37. Catahoula Cur vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  38. Catalan Sheepdog vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  39. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  40. Bergamasco vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  41. Berger Picard vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  42. Appenzell Mountain Dog vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  43. Queensland Heeler vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  44. German Coolie vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  45. Bohemian Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  46. Croatian Sheepdog vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  47. Red Heeler vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  48. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  49. Blue Lacy vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  50. New Zealand Huntaway vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds