Finnish Spitz vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison

Finnish Spitz vs Belgian Griffon - Breed ComparisonFinnish Spitz is originated from Finland but Belgian Griffon is originated from Belgium. Finnish Spitz may grow 30 cm / 12 inches higher than Belgian Griffon. Finnish Spitz may weigh 9 kg / 20 pounds more than Belgian Griffon. Finnish Spitz may live 4 years less than Belgian Griffon. Finnish Spitz may have more litter size than Belgian Griffon. Both Finnish Spitz and Belgian Griffon 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.

belgian griffon - historyThe Belgian Griffon isn’t your most attractive dog, but maybe its his quirky, gremlin looks that makes him such an adored pet for many. There are different varieties of Griffon, and the Belgian- and Brussels Griffon are one and the same. All small Belgian dogs have the same breed standards, with the Belgian having a rough coat The dog hails from Belguim and its ancestors were no doubt a mix of the Belgian street dog, the Stable Griffon and the Affenpinscher.

Later on in the 1800s, this combination was then crossed with the Pug, giving the dog the brachycephalic or flat faced look.

Unfortunately no written records were kept about the precise origin of this breed, but there is also the idea that the King Charles- and English Toy Spaniel were also involved in its development. These small dogs were bred to catch rats in the barns of European estates.

Basic Information

Group:
Sporting dog
Toy dog
Origin:
Finland
Belgium
Height Male:
45 - 50 cm
17 - 20 inches
18 - 20 cm
7 - 8 inches
Height Female:
39 - 45 cm
15 - 18 inches
16 - 20 cm
6 - 8 inches
Weight Male:
12 - 15 kg
26 - 34 pounds
2 - 6 kg
4 - 14 pounds
Weight Female:
10 - 13 kg
22 - 29 pounds
2 - 6 kg
4 - 14 pounds
Life Span:
9 - 11 Years
10 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 6
1 - 3
Size:
Medium dog
Small dog
Other Names:
Finnish Hunting Dog Finnish Spets Finsk Spets Loulou Finois Suomalainen pystykorva Suomenpystykorva
Brussels Griffon, Griffon Belge, Griffon Bruxellois Petit Brabançon
Colors Available:
golden-red with variations from pale honey to dark chestnut
red, tan or black
Coat:
double
2 types - soft or wiry
Shedding:
Seasonal
Minimal, Seasonal
Temperament:
Alert, Cheerful, Energetic, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loyal
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Responsive, Social, Sweet
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
Yes
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

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.

Small but Full of Attitude

belgian griffon puppy - descriptionThere are different variations of this dog to give it its distinctive look and size. This quaint looking little Griffon canine comes with two different coat types - soft or wiry. With the Belgian Griffon, his wiry coat of red, tan or black will need to be brushed at least twice a week. Shedding with this dog is seasonal.

He has a compact, sturdy little body, and he trots around with attitude. With his sharp pointed ears and whiskers, he has been given the nickname ‘bearded dog’. His dark black eyes are alert. He is self-confident, intelligent and curious breed, a great family pet and good with children if he has grown up with them in the home. He is good with other pets. The fact that this is a small breed and that he doesn’t have excessive energy levels, means he is adaptable to city- and country living.

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.

belgian griffon dog - characteristicsThe Belgian Griffon is an affectionate pet and often establishes a strong bond with one member of the family. You’ll have your Griffon with you for about 15 years so make sure he is trained and a pleasure to have around.They are difficult to train, being somewhat stubborn so they are going to require patience. They’re sensitive too, and they won’t respond well to aggressive treatment.

They’re much more indoor dogs than outdoor dogs because they’re also vulnerable to heat stroke. They just want to come indoors and be with their human family, and when you do that for them, they’ll become a wonderful friend and companion to you.

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

belgian griffon puppies - health problemsWhen you get your Griffon from a reputable breeder, you always have a better chance that he’ll be healthy. As it is, the Belgian Griffon has few hereditary health issues. However his dark eyes will have some genetic problems to contend with and he could suffer with progressive retinal atrophy. This is an illness which can lead to blindness

Other health issues to look out for are -

Syringomyelia – this is a neurological condition – an abnormality of the spinal cord – a disease which occurs more frequently in small breeds. It can cause your pet to endure a lot of pain.

Birthing Issues - these little dogs often have problems with giving birth, and a vet often has to intervene and perform a cesarean.

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.

Food and Water

belgian griffon dogs - caringThe Belgian Griffon will do well if you invest in high quality foods. You can make your own, but if you’re concerned about his health, it would be best to check what ingredients should go into his home-prepared meals to ensure he gets all the vitamins and minerals he needs.

If you want to go with commercially manufactured dog foods, check with your vet about wet- and dry foods. Your vet will help with choosing a food appropriate to his size and age. Always ensure that there is clean, fresh water available to your pet.

Exercise

Even though he is a small breed, he is fairly active and he will need his fair share of exercise like ball games and walks. Training and socialization are a must for him. You’ll notice that training isn’t particularly easy with this breed, and first time dog owners might not have the patience with him.

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. Pomeranian vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  27. Maltese vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  28. Pug vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  29. Maltipoo vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  30. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  31. Cockapoo vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  32. Cavapoo vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  33. Cavachon vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  34. Papillon vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  35. Japanese Chin vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  36. Miniature English Bulldog vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  37. Bolognese vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  38. Italian Greyhound vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  39. Jug vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  40. Miniature Pinscher vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  41. Dorgi vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  42. Belgian Griffon vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  43. Belgian Griffon vs Bantam Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  44. Carlin Pinscher vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  45. Dorkie vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  46. German Spitz (Klein) vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  47. Doxiepoo vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  48. Bospin vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  49. Damchi vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  50. Lowchen vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds