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Dog Breed

Finnish Lapphund

Breed Overview

Breed Name: Finnish Lapphund

Origin: Finland

Breed Group: Herding

Physical Characteristics

Size: Medium

Height: Male: 18–21 inches (46–53 cm), Female: 16–19 inches (41–48 cm)

Weight: Male: 33–53 lbs (15–24 kg), Female: 28–45 lbs (13–20 kg)

Coat Type: Thick, long double coat with a dense undercoat

Coat Colors: All colors allowed; black, sable, cream, wolf-sable, brown, red, with or without markings

Grooming Needs: Moderate to High (regular brushing; more during seasonal shedding)

Shedding: High

Behavioral Traits

Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, alert, gentle, eager to please

Intelligence Level: High

Energy Level: Moderate to High

Health Information

Lifespan: 12–15 years

Common Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cataracts

Care

Nutrition Needs: Balanced, high-quality diet suited for active medium-sized dogs

Exercise Needs: Moderate – enjoys daily walks, play, herding games, and agility

Space Requirements: Adaptable to apartment or home with yard if given sufficient activity

Noise Sensitivity: Moderate (can be vocal and alert)

Socialization and Training

Socialization Needs: High

Socialization Tips: Intelligent and eager to learn; responds well to positive, reward-based training

Good with Children: Yes, typically very sociable

Good with Other Dogs: Yes, typically very sociable

Good with Other Pets: Yes, friendly when properly introduced

Training: Intelligent and eager to learn; responds well to positive, reward-based training

Description

The Finnish Lapphund is a gentle, intelligent, and fluffy herding breed from the far north of Finland, originally used by the Sami people to herd reindeer. Known for their calm and friendly nature, they make wonderful family companions and do well in active households. Their dense double coat offers excellent protection in cold climates but sheds heavily, especially during spring and fall, requiring regular brushing. Lapphunds are quick learners, eager to please, and naturally social, making them easy to train. They enjoy daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation, but are also happy to relax indoors.

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History

Origin: The Finnish Lapphund, or Suomenlapinkoira, is an ancient breed that originated in Lapland, the northern region of Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Russia. It was bred by the Sami people, an indigenous group, to herd and protect reindeer. Archeological evidence suggests its ancestors date back to 7000 BC, making it one of the oldest dog breeds in Scandinavia.
Development: Initially used as hunter-protector dogs for the semi-nomadic Sami, Finnish Lapphunds transitioned into herding dogs as the Sami settled into reindeer herding. Their agility, intelligence, and thick double coat made them well-suited to the harsh Arctic environment. By the mid-20th century, interest in preserving the breed grew in Finland. In 1945, the Finnish Kennel Club established a breed standard under the name "Lapponian Shepherd Dog." In 1967, the longer-coated variety was officially recognized as the Finnish Lapphund.
Global Spread: The Finnish Lapphund remained largely confined to Scandinavia until the late 20th century. It was introduced to North America in 1987 and later gained recognition by the American Kennel Club in 2011. The breed also spread to countries like the UK, Australia, and Canada during the 1990s.
Recognition: The Finnish Lapphund is recognized by major kennel clubs worldwide, including the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), AKC, and CKC. It is celebrated for its herding abilities and friendly temperament and remains one of Finland's most popular breeds.
Today, Finnish Lapphunds are beloved family pets known for their intelligence, loyalty, and gentle nature. While they are no longer widely used for reindeer herding, they retain strong herding instincts and excel in activities like obedience and agility. The breed is especially popular in Finland but has a growing following internationally.

Ideal Owner

Active individuals or families seeking a loving, trainable, and fluffy companion

Similar Breeds

Icelandic Sheepdog, Keeshond, Norwegian Elkhound, Shetland Sheepdog