A bright, energetic little spitz that is cheerful and affectionate at home and gets on with other household animals, while announcing strangers with enthusiasm.
Key facts
Size
Small
Weight
9 to 12 kg (20 to 26 lb)males 10 to 12 kg, females 9 to 11 kg1
A bright, energetic little spitz that is cheerful and affectionate at home and gets on with other household animals, while announcing strangers with enthusiasm.1
how to spot oneTonya Finosu coat and colours
thick double coat
A dense, weather-resistant spitz coat suited to the cool, wet Black Sea climate, with pricked ears and a tail curled over the back like a half moon.1
A typical home-care rhythm for a Tonya Finosu. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year
by countryIs the Tonya Finosu legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Tonya Finosu in the 44 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Checked 2026-11-05. Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
where it all beganTonya Finosu history
A local spitz of the Tonya district with little written history. One popular theory says its ancestors arrived with sailors and traders using Baltic and Black Sea ports in earlier centuries.1
Its thick coat is well suited to the rainy, cool weather of the Black Sea coast.1
3
Locals have sought geographical-indication protection for the breed through Turkey's patent office.1
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The breed is named after the Tonya district in Trabzon Province, Turkey, where it is indigenous. 'Finosu' is a local term for the breed, which is also known as 'Fino of Tonya' or 'Kobi'.1
I wake up full of energy and bounce around the house, nudging everyone to get up. After a quick breakfast, I patrol the garden, keeping an eye out for squirrels. My best friend - the cat - joins me for a game of chase in the sun. When someone comes to the door, I announce them with enthusiastic yaps, but once they're in, I'm all wags. Afternoon is for toy time: I toss my squeaky ball until my human throws it again. Evenings are spent curled up, ready for tomorrow's adventures.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
Major kennel clubs
Not recognised by major kennel clubs; efforts have been made to register it as a geographical indication with the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office.1
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Tonya Finosu, and at what times?
Your Tonya Finosu should have at least two meals a day as an adult, and puppies need three to four smaller meals. Stick to regular times each day, and ask your vet for a schedule that suits your dog's age and activity.2
What should a Tonya Finosu eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality dog food that matches your Tonya Finosu's age and size. Keep them away from dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, as these are especially risky for dogs.3
How often should I bathe a Tonya Finosu?
A bath every 8 weeks is a good starting plan for your Tonya Finosu, but you can adjust based on how dirty or active they get. At least every three months is fine for most dogs.4Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Tonya Finosu need brushing?
Weekly brushing is suggested for your Tonya Finosu's thick double coat to keep it healthy and reduce shedding. During heavy shed seasons, you may want to brush a bit more often.4Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Tonya Finosu's nails, and how often?
Every three weeks is a good starting point, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Trim a small bit at a time, stopping before the pink quick, and use a proper dog nail clipper.4Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Tonya Finosu need?
Your energetic Tonya Finosu needs daily walks and playful exercise to stay happy and healthy. A good routine keeps their bright spirit shining.1Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Tonya Finosu's teeth and ears?
Brush your Tonya Finosu's teeth daily if you can, and check their ears each week to keep them dry and clean. Never push anything into the ear canal, and always use dog-safe toothpaste.4Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Tonya Finosu live?
Lifespan can vary quite a bit, so it's best to ask your breeder or vet for an estimate specific to your Tonya Finosu's line and health.
Is a Tonya Finosu good with children and other pets?
Yes, your Tonya Finosu is cheerful and affectionate at home and gets along well with other household animals. They'll announce strangers with enthusiasm, but they're a lovely family companion.1
Can a Tonya Finosu be left alone?
It depends on the individual dog's personality and training. A good breeder or your vet can give you advice on how to gradually get your Tonya Finosu used to alone time.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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