As active, energetic dogs, Finnish Spitz exercise requirements are fairly extensive. Dogs of this breed were developed to have plenty of agility and endurance for hunting, so they'll need a wide variety of activities to keep them peaceful (and quiet!).
The typical adult FS, depending on its age and overall activity level, will need at least an hour of proper exercise per day--which you can achieve with a couple of long walks and a good period of play. You can start exercising your FS puppy when it's three months old by taking it on short (5- to 7-minute) walks, then you can increase the walks' length and frequency as the puppy grows.
A few things to consider when exercising your Finnish Spitz: first, puppies younger than nine months old shouldn't participate in activities that include a lot of jumping, running on hard surfaces, or navigating of stairs, as doing so can injure their still-developing joints and bones. And regardless of age, all Finnish Spitzes will need to be leashed when in public. These dogs have high prey drives, and will chase small animals--birds, squirrels, cats, even small dogs--if given the chance; they're also suspicious of strange people and animals, and may be defensive or confrontational around them. A leash will help you control your FS in these situations. Even when exercising in your own yard, the area will need to be securely fenced to keep the dog from running off after potential prey. And finally: it's best to exercise along with your Finnish Spitz. Breed members form strong bonds with their owners, and if left alone (put out in the backyard, for example), they'll engage in their favorite activity: barking, barking, and more barking! Exercises you do together, in other words, will go a long way in keeping these dogs (and your neighbors!) happy and silent.
Precautions aside, it's important to exercise your FS every single day. Since they're "bark pointers," these dogs are extremely vocal--and if bored or restless they'll bark without stopping, and may even turn disobedient and destructive. Consistent activity will be great for the dog's peace of mind, and for your own sanity as well. A few exercise ideas:
- Walking: Two 30-minute walks per day is a good target
- Fetch/Frisbee: These dogs love chasing a ball, stick, or Frisbee
- Hide-and-Seek: Great indoor, rainy-day activity; give the dog a treat when it finds you
- Canine Sports: A Finnish Spitz can excel at obedience and agility trials, lure coursing, and other events
- Dog Park: If properly socialized, breed members enjoy the company of other dogs
- Hiking: Excellent bonding activity; bonus if you can find a remote area where the dog can be off-leash
When indoors, it's a good idea to give your Finnish Spitz access to one or more balls or toys that will allow the dog to burn excess energy, and will minimize its barking. It's also recommended that you establish a regular exercise schedule for the dog, such as walks after breakfast and dinner and a play period in the afternoon.
