Finnish Lapphund

Group: Working
Size: Medium
Lifespan: 11-14 years
Exercise: Medium
Grooming: Medium
Trainability: Medium
Area of Origin: Finland
Date of Origin: 1600s
Other Names: Suomenlapinkoira, Lapinkoira, Lapland Dog
Original Function: Reindeer herding

History
The Finnish Lapphund, also known as the Suomenlapinkoira, the Lapinkoira, or the Lapland Dog, originates from as early as the 1600's in Finland. There are three varieties of Lapphund: the Finnish Lapphund, the Laponian Herder, and the Swedish Lapphund. Their ancient forbears were herding spitzes that were kept thousands of years ago by nomadic tribes across Scandinavia, themselves the forbears of the Laplanders. It is believed that the Finnish Lapphund traces some of its roots to the Samoyed. The dogs' main function in the last few centuries was that of a herder of reindeer for the Lapp people, although most frequently this task fell to the smooth-coated variety of Lapphund, the Laponian Herder. The Finnish Lapphund is a hardy dog that is capable or working in the very harsh climates of Northern Scandinavia and Russia. Through selective breeding, the dog's natural herding instincts are maintained. It is rarely found outside of Scandinavia and Russia.

Temperament
The Finnish Lapphund is an intelligent dog that responds well to its owners. It enjoys family life, and is calm and loyal. It makes both a good companion to the family, as well as a watchdog that will alert when strangers approach.

Upkeep
The Finnish Lapphund is active and needs a good workout every day, either in the form of a long walk or jog or a vigorous play session. It loves cold weather. It can live outdoors in temperate to cold climates, but it much prefers to live indoors with its human family. Its thick coat needs brushing and combing two to three times a week, daily when shedding. The Finnish Lapphund drove reindeer by barking. This trait may cause problems in apartments or quiet neighborhoods.

Breeders

Unfortunately there are no known breeders of the Finnish Lapphund at this time. Please take a look at some alternative suggestions below or if you know of a registered breeder please contact us.

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