Number of pet dogs rising rapidly in Finland

Finns own already 550,000 pet dogs

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According to statistics collected by the Finnish Kennel Club, currently every fourth Finnish family has a dog. The total number of dogs is 550,000, of which over 400,000 are pedigree animals. In the course of last year, close to 42,000 puppies and imported dogs were registered, which is about 3,500 more than in the previous year.
     
The Finnish Kennel Club believes that the boom will continue for at least a few years.
      "Particularly small and agile dogs are currently very popular. They are easy to handle and their good character traits appear to please people", says Kaija Unhola of the Kennel Club.
      Furthermore, Unhola reports that one of the most popular dogs is the dachshund. Over 1,300 new puppies were born last year, which is 300 more than in 2003. Miniature schnauzers and miniature pinschers as well as various terriers are also well-liked.
     
However, the Finnish Hound continues to be the Finns' favourite breed. Unhola says that large numbers of these hunting dogs have been registered especially in Ostrobothnia, Eastern Finland, and in the province of Savo.
      Another breed that is permanently popular is the German shepherd or alsatian, which is used as a guide dog as well as a rescue dog.
      On the other hand, also the Finnish Lapphund is becoming more popular, and has taken fifth place in the list of the 20 most popular breeds in Finland between the Labrador retriever and the golden retriever.
      Another Lapp breed, the Lapponian Herder, is also becoming more widespread, and the Finnish Kennel Club expects it to be a new fashion breed.
The acquisition of a dog is a permanent issue, particularly in families with children. Kaija Unhola recommends the family pick out a couple of breeds in a dog book and then contact the Kennel Club or any other specific breed organization for further information. "While it is typically the parents who have to take care of the pet dog, a child is capable of walking at least a small dog", adds Unhola.


Links:
  The Finnish Kennel Club's English Pages

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