Finnish hound: The versatile hunting companion from the far north
History of the Finnish Hound
The history of the Finnish Hound goes way back to the time when people in Finland depended on reliable hunting dogs. This breed was bred specifically for hunting hares and foxes and is characterized by its exceptional endurance and sniffer nose. The first records of the Finnish Hound date back to the 19th century, but the breed itself probably has much older roots. The Finnish Hound was recognized by the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) in 1954 and has since gained international popularity.
Who is the Finnish Hound suitable for?
The Finnish Hound is ideal for active people who spend a lot of time outdoors and want a loyal companion by their side. This breed requires a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, so they are less suitable for people who lead a rather quiet lifestyle or live in small apartments. A home with a large garden or regular outings in the countryside are a must for this energetic dog.
Character and behavior
Finnish hounds are known for their friendly and even-tempered character. They are social, affectionate and very family-oriented. They generally get along well with children and other pets, provided they are properly socialized. These dogs are intelligent and willing to learn, which makes training easier, but they also have an independent character and require consistent training.
Appearance of the Finnish Hound
The Finnish Hound has a medium-sized, athletic appearance. Males reach a shoulder height of 55 to 61 cm and a weight of around 25 to 28 kg, while females are somewhat smaller and lighter. Their coat is dense, short and weatherproof, making them ideal for the harsh conditions in Finland. Coat colors vary, but tricolored specimens with black, brown and white are the most common.
Care of the Finnish Hound
Grooming the Finnish Hound is relatively straightforward. Their short coat needs to be brushed regularly to remove loose hair and keep the skin healthy. Daily brushing may be necessary during the shedding season. Ears should also be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent infection. Claws should be trimmed if necessary and dental care should not be neglected either.
Health and life expectancy
The Finnish Hound is generally a robust and healthy breed. However, as with all breeds, certain genetic diseases can occur. These include hip dysplasia and some eye diseases. It is important to buy from a reputable breeder who will test for these health problems. The life expectancy of a Finnish Hound is around 12 to 15 years.
Exercise needs and training requirements
Finnish Hounds have a high exercise requirement and need plenty of exercise. They are ideal for long walks, hikes and other outdoor activities. This breed is less suited to city life unless the owner is willing to invest a lot of time in exercise and training every day. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise, so dog sports such as agility or tracking are excellent for this breed.
Interactions with children and other animals
Thanks to their friendly and even-tempered nature, Finnish Hounds make excellent family dogs. They get along well with children and other pets if they are socialized from an early age. However, their hunting instinct can lead them to chase smaller animals, so good training and supervision is important.
Special features and interesting facts
The Finnish Hound is not only an excellent hunting dog, but also a talented search and rescue dog. Their keen sense of smell and stamina make them ideal for these tasks. They are also known for their loud and melodic voice, which they use when hunting to alert the hunter to the scent.
