Finnish Spitz vs German Pinscher

Non-Sporting · Medium vs Working · Medium

Quick take
  • German Pinscher is the larger breed at 25–45 lbs (males) vs 25–33 lbs for the Finnish Spitz.
  • The Finnish Spitz typically lives longer (13–15 years).
  • The German Pinscher has higher daily energy needs.
  • The German Pinscher is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitFinnish SpitzGerman Pinscher
Group
Non-SportingWorking
Size
MediumMedium
Origin
FinlandGermany
Height (male)
17.5–20"17–20"
Height (female)
15.5–18"17–20"
Weight (male)
25–33 lbs25–45 lbs
Weight (female)
20–28 lbs25–45 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–15 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediumshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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.

About the German Pinscher

The German Pinscher is a spirited, smart, observant German farm and stable ratter — between Mini Pinscher and Doberman in size. Originally from Germany, this medium working breed typically weighs 25–45 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, smart, observant.

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Finnish Spitz health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Epilepsy

German Pinscher health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Heart problems