Finnish Hound
Also known as Suomenajokoira · Chien Courant Finlandais · Finnischer Laufhund · Sabueso Finlandés
Finland, Scent hounds
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 52–61 cm
- Weight
- 20–25 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Friendly
- Independent
- Energetic
- Scent-driven
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Finnish Hound
The Finnish Hound, or Suomenajokoira, is the most common hunting dog in Finland, used for hare and fox. It is a medium-large, athletic hound with a short coat in tan or black with tan markings. Hardy and tireless, it hunts by voice in cold, snowy country and has a friendly, even-tempered manner at home.
Temperament
Friendly, calm indoors and gentle, with a strong scent drive. It is independent and can be stubborn, so patient training helps. It generally gets on well with other dogs.
Exercise
Needs a lot of exercise, an hour or more, ideally with secure space to run. It must be kept on a lead where there is a trail to follow.
Grooming
A weekly rub down with a rubber brush is enough for the dense, weatherproof coat. Dry it off after wet or snowy outings.
Care & wellbeing
Check drop ears regularly, keep weight lean and provide secure fencing.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 22.5 kg adult- Water
- 900 ml–1.4 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,160 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Finnish Hound
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A Finnish scent hound developed from hounds in the late nineteenth century, intended to hunt hare and fox over snow in Finland. It is hardy and tireless in the field.
Health
There's limited reliable published information on health issues in the Finnish Hound. Breed clubs and your vet are the best sources.
Not every Finnish Hound is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 year commitment
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Finnish Hound right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- This is your first dog — an independent breed can be a challenge to train
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Finnish Hound get?
Adult Finnish Hounds typically stand about 52–61 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 20–25 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Finnish Hounds live?
Typically 12–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Finnish Hound need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Finnish Hound need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Finnish Hounds easy to train?
Often independent-minded, so training needs patience, consistency and high-value rewards.
Do Finnish Hounds shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Finnish Hounds good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Finnish Hound live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Finland
- Type
- Scent hounds
- Internationally recognised
- 1954