fur farming

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June 29, 2026

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Fur farming is the commercial raising of fur-bearing animals for their pelts. Furs, the fine, soft hair of mammals, have historically been valued for warmth and decoration. True furs consist of a dense undercoat and longer guard hairs, both serving important functions for the animal's survival.12

Animals like mink, fox, and chinchilla are bred on fur farms, with mink pelts being the most common. Wild animals are also trapped for their fur. Historically, furs were essential for clothing, but they evolved into a symbol of wealth and status.2

Concerns about animal welfare have led to debates and bans on fur farming, with critics highlighting the inhumane conditions of cramped cages and the animals' suffering. Ethical considerations and the environmental impact of fur production are central to these discussions.32

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Finland
Agriculture, forestry, and fishing
Since World War II, fur farming has made great strides in Finland. Practically all furs are exported; Finland is one of the world’s main producers of farm-raised foxes, and its mink furs also have a very good reputation on international markets.
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Since World War II, fur farming has made great strides in Finland. Practically all furs are exported; Finland is one of the world’s main producers of farm-raised foxes, and its mink furs also have a very good reputation on international markets.
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fox
The red fox
…foxes, are commonly produced on fox farms, where the animals are raised until they are fully grown at approximately 10 months of age. In much of their range, red foxes are the primary carrier of rabies. Several countries, especially the United Kingdom and France, have extensive culling and vaccination programs…
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…foxes, are commonly produced on fox farms, where the animals are raised until they are fully grown at approximately 10 months of age. In much of their range, red foxes are the primary carrier of rabies. Several countries, especially the United Kingdom and France, have extensive culling and vaccination programs…
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fur
…and profitable international market for furs has developed; among the major producers are the United States, Canada, and the Scandinavian countries. Fur-bearing animals that are bred and raised on fur farms (or ranches) include mink, fox, marten, and chinchilla. Mink pelts constitute the majority of pelts produced annually, with most…
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…and profitable international market for furs has developed; among the major producers are the United States, Canada, and the Scandinavian countries. Fur-bearing animals that are bred and raised on fur farms (or ranches) include mink, fox, marten, and chinchilla. Mink pelts constitute the majority of pelts produced annually, with most…
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