Medical Conditions of the Finnish Spitz
by Jennie Bullock

     Health concerns are very rare with this breed. A well bred Finnish Spitz should have a long, healthy life span. Be sure to search for a reputable breeder of quality pups.
 
Hip Dysplasia (HD)
        Hip Dysplasia is the result of the malformation of the hip joint(s).  This condition is a common difficulty in most of the large dog breeds.  This condition is both genetic and environmentally influenced.
        Less than 3% of all Finnish Spitz registered are known to have Hip Dysplasia. Be sure that both parents of any Finnish Spitz puppy you are considering purchasing is certified by OFA or Penn Hip to be free of Hip Dysplasia.
        Over-feeding, over-exercise and injury while young may also contribute to your puppy damaging (leading to degeneration) his hips.
For more information, please see : (Medical Index/Hip Dysplasia).

Patellar Luxation

      The patella (kneecap) is a small bone which guards the knee joint.  The patella sits in a grove in the femur, and is held in place by a combination of ligaments and muscles.  This bone can slip out of position due to injury, poor alignment, weak ligaments, or insufficient grove in the femur.  Generally the dog will limp, carry the leg off the ground, or hop when running.  If the problem is severe it can necessitate surgery.

        Patellar luxation can be either hereditary or due to injury.
For further information please see: Medical Index/Patellar Luxation.

Elbow Dysplasia
        Elbow Dysplasia is a developmental disorder of the bones associated with the elbow joint.  This disease is generally accepted as genetic in nature, and can occur in multiple levels of severity.
        As with Hip Dysplasia, both parents should be certified as free of Elbow Dysplasia prior to breeding.
For more information, please see : (Medical Index/Elbow Dysplasia).

Of growing concern to Finnish Spitz owners:

Epilepsy

        Epilepsy is a hereditary seizure disorder.  This disease cannot be cured, but it can be controlled with medication. The dog with epilepsy can live a fairly normal life, but cannot be placed in the stressful situation of showing, and certainly should not be bred.
For more information, lease see: (Medical Index/Epilepsy).

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