Australian Terrier vs Finnish Spitz
Terrier · Small vs Non-Sporting · Medium
Australian TerrierSmall
A spirited, alert, courageous Australian outback ratter — the first breed developed Down Under.
Weight: 15–20 lbsLifespan: 11–15 years
Finnish SpitzMedium
A friendly, faithful, alert fox-red Finnish bark-pointer — national dog of Finland, hunts by yodeling.
Weight: 25–33 lbsLifespan: 13–15 years
Quick take
- • Finnish Spitz is the larger breed at 25–33 lbs (males) vs 15–20 lbs for the Australian Terrier.
- • The Finnish Spitz typically lives longer (13–15 years).
- • The Australian Terrier sheds less.
- • The Australian Terrier is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Australian Terrier | Finnish Spitz |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Non-Sporting |
Size | Small | Medium |
Origin | Australia | Finland |
Height (male) | 10–11" | 17.5–20" |
Height (female) | 10–11" | 15.5–18" |
Weight (male) | 15–20 lbs | 25–33 lbs |
Weight (female) | 15–20 lbs | 20–28 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 11–15 years | 13–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | medium |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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About the Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is a spirited, alert, courageous Australian outback ratter — the first breed developed Down Under. Originally from Australia, this small terrier breed typically weighs 15–20 lbs and lives 11–15 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, alert, courageous.
About the Finnish Spitz
The Finnish Spitz is a friendly, faithful, alert fox-red Finnish bark-pointer — national dog of Finland, hunts by yodeling. Originally from Finland, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 25–33 lbs and lives 13–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, faithful, alert.
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Australian Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Diabetes
- • Allergies
Finnish Spitz health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Epilepsy