Finnish Lapphund
Herding Group (AKC) / Pastoral Group (UKC) · Finland — originally bred by the Sami people for herding reindeer in the Arctic region. · Medium
Also known as: Suomenlapinkoira, Lapponian Shepherd Dog
Breed Group
Herding Group (AKC) / Pastoral Group (UKC)
Size
Medium
Height
Males: 18-21 inches, Females: 16-19 inches at the shoulder
Weight
Males: 35-53 lbs, Females: 30-45 lbs
Life Expectancy
12-15 years
Origin
Finland — originally bred by the Sami people for herding reindeer in the Arctic region.
Energy Level
Moderate to High
Trainability
Highly Trainable
Description
The Finnish Lapphund is a hardy, medium-sized spitz-type dog with a friendly and submissive nature, originally adapted to the harsh Arctic climate and reindeer herding lifestyle.
Key Features
Plush double coat, heavily plumed tail carried over the back, alert pointed ears, and expressive, friendly eyes.
Coat Type
Abundant double coat with a straight, long, harsh outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat. Heavy seasonal shedding.
Coat Colors
Black and white with tan points (resembling black-and-tan with white markings), though all colors are permitted by the breed standard.
Temperament
Friendly, calm, courageous, and eager to please. Highly intelligent and alert with a distinct barking tendency when excited.
Good with Children
Excellent
Good with Other Dogs
Good
Grooming Needs
Moderate; weekly brushing increases to daily during shedding seasons.
Exercise Requirements
Moderate to high; daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation are essential.
Health Considerations
Generally healthy, but can be prone to progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and hip dysplasia.
Living Conditions
Adapts well to various living situations if given adequate exercise, but thrives best in cooler climates due to its heavy coat.
History & Origin
Developed by the indigenous Sami people of Lapland, initially used for hunting reindeer and later transformed into an indispensable reindeer herding dog.
Interesting Facts
Despite their strong herding background, they have a remarkably gentle demeanor and are known for their characteristic 'alert bark' used while working.
Similar Breeds
Icelandic Sheepdog, Swedish Lapphund, and Finnish Spitz