General Introduction of the Breed
The Finnish Lapphund, known as “Suomenlapinkoira” in Finnish, is a versatile and intelligent dog breed that originated in Finland. It was traditionally used by the indigenous Sámi people to herd reindeer in the harsh Arctic conditions. Over time, this breed has gained popularity as a loyal companion and family pet.
Table of Contents
| Weight | Male: 33-53 lbs Female: 28-45 lbs |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Diet | High-quality protein-rich kibble, wet, or raw food. Two daily meals. Avoid overfeeding & toxic foods. |
| Care | Daily exercise, regular brushing (2-3x/week), adaptable but prefers space, shade in heat, regular hygiene. |
| Health | Generally healthy; may have hip dysplasia, PRA, cataracts. Regular vet care is key. |
| Color | Black, brown, sable, wolf sable, cream, often with markings. |
| Nature | Intelligent, friendly, gentle, energetic, loyal, social, good with kids/pets, alert, playful. |
| Price | Puppy: $1,000-$3,000. Adoption is cheaper. |
Physical Characteristics
Finnish Lapphunds are medium-sized dogs with a sturdy build. Males typically stand between 18-21 inches (46-53 cm) tall and weigh around 33-53 pounds (15-24 kg), while females are slightly smaller, measuring 16-19 inches (41-49 cm) in height and weighing 28-45 pounds (13-20 kg).
The breed has a thick double coat that is well-suited for cold climates. Coat colors vary and include black, brown, sable, wolf sable, and cream, often with distinctive markings.
They have almond-shaped eyes, usually brown, with an expressive and intelligent gaze. Their ears are medium-sized, triangular, and set high, standing erect or slightly tipped. The tail is bushy and typically curls over the back when the dog is in motion.
Personality and Temperament
The Finnish Lapphund is an intelligent and eager-to-learn breed, making training relatively easy. They are known for their friendly and gentle nature, making them excellent companions.
They have high energy levels and require regular exercise to stay mentally and physically stimulated. Despite their high energy, they form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy being close to their families.
Finnish Lapphunds are social dogs that get along well with children and other pets. They are not naturally aggressive but can be alert and vocal when sensing something unusual. Their playful nature and herding instincts may sometimes result in chasing behavior.
They are highly sensitive to their environment and prefer stable routines. Drastic changes in their surroundings may cause mild anxiety.
Read More: Field Spaniel Dog
Care and Maintenance Requirements
Due to their working heritage, Finnish Lapphunds need daily exercise, including walks, play sessions, or mental stimulation through training and games. They are adaptable to apartment living but thrive in homes with more space.
Their thick double coat requires regular grooming. They shed moderately throughout the year and heavily during seasonal coat changes. Brushing at least two to three times a week is recommended to prevent matting and remove loose fur.
They are highly tolerant of cold weather but can struggle in hot climates. Proper hydration and shade are essential in warmer conditions.
Regular hygiene maintenance includes occasional baths, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care.
Diet and Nutrition
A balanced diet of high-quality dry kibble, wet food, or a raw diet is suitable for Finnish Lapphunds. It is important to provide food rich in protein and healthy fats.
They do not have specific dietary restrictions, but overfeeding should be avoided to prevent obesity. Foods such as chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, and excessive fatty foods should be avoided.
They do well with two meals per day, with portion sizes adjusted based on activity levels and age.
Health and Common Medical Issues
The Finnish Lapphund is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of 12-15 years. However, they can be prone to certain genetic health conditions, including hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and cataracts.
Routine veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, dental care, and parasite prevention are essential for their overall health and well-being.
Read More: English Cocker Spaniel Dog
Training and Behavior Management
Finnish Lapphunds are intelligent and eager to please, making training relatively easy with positive reinforcement methods. They respond well to consistent and reward-based training.
Early socialization is crucial to help them develop confidence and good behavior around other animals and people. Training should focus on reinforcing good habits and gently discouraging undesirable behaviors.
Because they can be vocal, training should also include barking control techniques if necessary.
Interaction with Other Animals and Humans
This breed is known for being affectionate and gentle with children, making it a great family pet. They are also generally friendly and sociable with other pets, especially when properly socialized from a young age.
Finnish Lapphunds are well-suited for families or active individuals who can provide ample interaction and engagement. They are loyal but not excessively clingy, maintaining a healthy balance between independence and attachment.
Price and Availability
The price of a Finnish Lapphund puppy typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the breeder, lineage, and location. Adopting from a rescue organization may be a more affordable option.
When purchasing, it is recommended to choose a reputable breeder who follows ethical breeding practices and provides health screenings for the puppies.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The Finnish Lapphund is a well-rounded breed that fits well into active families and individuals looking for a loyal and intelligent companion. Their friendly nature, adaptability, and trainability make them a great choice for both experienced and first-time dog owners.
They thrive in homes where they receive regular exercise, mental stimulation, and companionship. Prospective owners should consider the breed’s grooming requirements, energy levels, and need for socialization before making a commitment.
If you are looking for a devoted, affectionate, and energetic dog with a fascinating history, the Finnish Lapphund might be the perfect choice for you!
Read More: English Springer Spaniel Dog
FAQ
What is the Finnish Lapphund’s temperament like?
Finnish Lapphunds are known for being friendly, gentle, and intelligent dogs. They are eager to learn, form strong bonds with their families, and are generally good with children and other pets. They have high energy levels but also enjoy being close to their owners.
How much grooming does a Finnish Lapphund need?
They have a thick double coat that requires regular grooming. Brushing at least two to three times a week is recommended to prevent matting and remove loose fur. They shed moderately year-round and heavily during seasonal coat changes.
How much exercise does a Finnish Lapphund require?
Finnish Lapphunds have high energy levels and need daily exercise, such as walks, play sessions, or mental stimulation through training and games. They are adaptable to apartment living but thrive in homes with more space.
Are Finnish Lapphunds good with children and other pets?
Yes, Finnish Lapphunds are generally social dogs that get along well with children and other pets, especially when properly socialized from a young age. Their friendly and gentle nature makes them excellent family companions.
