To say that the Finnish Spitz is “talkative” is like suggesting that that Smokin’ Ed’s Carolina Reaper® peppers are mildly hot.

While “Suomenpystykorva” means “Finnish Pricked Ear Dog,” the breed has may be better known in its homeland as the Finnish Barking Bird Dog. This breed is considered to be “bark pointers” because they indicate where game is by barking at it to attract the hunter’s attention. “Finkies” follow a bird and bark when it lands on a tree or land. And then they bark some more. If the bird moves, the dog follows it and barks yet again once it lands.

Some hunters insist that the barking of the dogs mesmerizes birds into staying put. It’s also possible that the barking distracts birds so that they don’t notice an approaching hunter. Living with a barking breed, ourselves, we’re wondering (tongue in cheek) if perhaps the birds are rendered deaf!  Trust us. However much you think your breed barks, go ahead and time your dog’s barking. The Finnish Spitz can bark up to 160 times a minute, can yours?

How serious are the Finns about their barking dog? Any conformation champions must first prove they are adept at barking while hunting. These dogs can be trained to bark less, but as we see it, it flies in the face of their heritage, and it does makes them superb watchdogs.

Image: Finnish Spitz by Greta Musland is available as wall art, life accessories and more here.