History of the Finnish Lapphund
The Finnish Lapphund boasts a rich history intertwined with the Sámi people who are indigenous to the northern regions of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and parts of Russia. Bred primarily to work as reindeer herders, the dogs were indispensable in helping the Sámi manage large herds, showcasing their strength, endurance, and intelligent herding instincts under challenging Arctic conditions.
Originating from Lapland, the breed’s ancestral roots trace back over hundreds of years. However, it wasn’t until the 20th century that formal recognition and standardization efforts began. The Finnish Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1945, establishing a Breed Standard to preserve the dogs’ unique characteristics and working ability. The breed’s popularity grew steadily, capturing the hearts of many people beyond the region’s herding communities.
In 1987, the breed gained official recognition from the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), further solidifying its presence in the international dog community. The breed’s charm and versatility have since led to its recognition by various kennel clubs around the world, including The Royal Kennel Club (UK).
The Finnish Lapphund eventually made its way to North America, capturing the attention of discriminating dog lovers as well as breed enthusiasts. The American Kennel Club welcomed the breed into its Foundation Stock Service in 2001, a significant step towards full recognition. In 2009, the breed ascended to the AKC Miscellaneous Group, marking another milestone in its journey in America. Just two years later, in 2011, the breed officially transitioned from the AKC Miscellaneous Group into the Herding Group. This final move granted the breed full recognition by the AKC, enabling it to participate in all AKC sanctioned events and compete for championships and Conformation titles. This inclusion has facilitated the breed’s growth and popularity in the United States, promoting responsible breeding practices and increasing awareness of the breed’s unique characteristics.
Throughout their history, the Finnish Lapphund has transitioned from a working reindeer herder to a beloved companion, retaining the breed’s intelligence, versatility, and friendly nature. Today, the dogs are showcasing their adaptability and eagerness to work alongside their human companions in activities beyond their historic reindeer duties.
The Finnish Lapphund stands as a testament to the enduring bond that is shared between dogs and humans worldwide. It remains a versatile companion, equally at home in the show ring, participating in dog sports, or simply enjoying life as a cherished family member.
General Appearance
Height & Weight
The Finnish Lapphund is a medium-sized breed with a strong and sturdy build. Adult males typically stand between 18 and 21 inches tall at the shoulder, while mature females are slightly smaller, ranging from 16 to 19 inches.
In terms of weight, Finnish Lapphunds usually weigh between 33 and 53 pounds.
Proportion & Substance
The Finnish Lapphund has a well-proportioned body, displaying both strength and agility. The dog’s body length is slightly longer than its height at the withers, giving the breed a length-to-height ratio of 11 to 10. The Lapphund possesses a profuse coat which hides its rather substantial body. The breed’s strength of bone and muscular development are surprising for a dog of its size, showcasing the breed’s ability to herd reindeer tirelessly.
Coat Texture, Colors & Markings
Texture: The Finnish Lapphund boasts a luxurious double coat, consisting of a soft, dense undercoat and a longer, harsher outer coat. The hair is profuse and straight, providing ample protection against the cold climate in which the breed was originally bred to work. The dense undercoat causes the guard hairs to “stand up.” A ruff appears around the neck, particularly in the males, and the ears are well covered in dense hair. It is important to note that the Lapphund’s coat requires regular grooming to maintain its condition and to prevent mats, especially around the neck and chest areas, but it should not be sculpted or otherwise trimmed.
Finnish Lapphund Colors
|
Standard Color |
| Black |
ee |
| Brown |
ee |
| Blonde |
ee |
| Tan |
ee |
| Cream |
ee |
| Blue |
ee |
| Brindle |
ee |
| Wolf Sable |
ee |
| Sadle |
ee |
Finnish Lapphund Markings
|
Standard Marking |
| White Markings |
ee |
| White & Tan Markings |
ee |
| Black Mask |
ee |
| Domino |
ee |
| Tan Points |
ee |
| Tri Color Markings |
ee |
| Piebald |
ee |
| Tan Points & Ticked |
ee |
| White Markings, Black Mask |
ee |
A Note About Color: The breed is seen in many colors and pattern markings, including: single colors with or without spectacles; secondary colors on the head, neck, chest, belly, legs, feet, and tail; sables; Domino; tan pattern markings; and Irish white markings.
Head
- Skull: The Finnish Lapphund possesses a broad skull that is slightly rounded. The breadth and length are well balanced, ensuring the head appears in proportion with the rest of the body. There’s a noticeable, but not abrupt stop between the eyes.
- Expression: Exhibiting a soft and lively demeanor, the expression is one of alertness, intelligence, and friendliness.
- Eyes: Medium in size and oval-shaped, the eyes are set apart, adorned with dark rims that contribute to the breed’s expressive and earnest appearance. Their color is dark, although they may be lighter in lighter-colored dogs.
- Ears: Triangular and of medium size, the ears are set rather far apart and stand erect, reflecting the breed’s alertness and Northern heritage.
- Muzzle: Displaying strength, the muzzle tapers towards the nose but is not pointed, with a balanced appearance with the skull. The length from the stop to the tip of the nose is slightly less than the length of the skull from the stop to the occiput.
- Nose: Predominantly black, the color of the nose complements the coat’s coloration and contributes to a harmonious appearance. Brown dogs, however, will always have brown pigment.
- Bite: The Finnish Lapphund has a complete scissors bite, where the upper incisors closely overlap the lower incisors and are set square to the jaw, ensuring an effective grip.
Tail
The Finnish Lapphund sports a tail that is an integral part of its characteristic appearance. This reflects its Northern heritage and functionality as a herding breed. The tail is set just below the line of the back, carried in a gentle curve over the back or to the side when the dog is alert or in motion. It is not tight to the back, and when at rest the tail may hang down. It is of medium length and densely coated, and it has a bushy appearance, that not only adds to its visual appeal but also serves as protection against the harsh Arctic conditions it originally endured.
The tail’s carriage and appearance are essential aspects of the breed’s conformation, and both play a significant role in the overall balance and symmetry of the dog. The tail is a distinctive feature of the breed, contributing to its authentic and unadulterated appearance.
The Finnish Lapphund – What to Consider?
Embracing a Finnish Lapphund as a companion means welcoming an energetic, affectionate, and intelligent member into the household. The breed’s friendly and gentle demeanor can make these dogs an ideal choice for both individuals and families. However, becoming a caretaker of this hardy breed entails specific responsibilities for supporting the well-being and happiness of both the dog and its family members.
Home Life
Interaction With Family
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals will vary. While some breeds may only show genuine warmth towards their owner, remaining standoffish with strangers, other breeds will treat everyone they meet as if they are their closest friend.
Independent Affectionate
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed. Although supervision is always recommended during introductions, certain breeds tend to be inherently more or less sociable with other dogs, whether in a home setting or in public spaces.
Not Recommended Reliable With Other Dogs
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children, and its overall suitability as a family member, will vary. It is important to always supervise interactions between dogs and the kids in the house, as well as with children who are not accustomed to being around dogs.
Not Recommended Dependable With Children
Upkeep
Amount Of Shedding
The amount of hair that a dog sheds will typically depend on its breed. Heavy-shedding breeds require more frequent brushing, have a higher chance of activating specific allergies, and often necessitate more frequent use of the vacuum cleaner and lint rollers.
Low High
Frequency Of Grooming
The regularity with which a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or other forms of coat care is an all-important consideration. When evaluating the grooming effort required, consider your available time, patience, and budget. It is important to note that all breeds need routine ear, teeth, and nail care.
Monthly Daily
Amount Of Drooling
The tendency of a breed to drool significantly varies from breed to breed. For those who prefer cleanliness or are particular about keeping things tidy, breeds that are likely to leave trails of drool on your arm or large slobbery marks on your clothing and furniture might not be the best fit.
Low High
Coat Type
smooth
wiry
hairless
rough
corded
double
curly
wavy
sikly
Behavior
Acceptance Of New People
The likelihood of a breed to be friendly towards strangers will vary. While some breeds may consistently exhibit reserve or caution around unfamiliar people, regardless of the setting, others are often eager to greet and interact with any new person they meet.
Reserved Outgoing
Protective Nature
The propensity of a dog to notify you of the presence of strangers is breed-dependent. Some breeds are more inclined to respond to any perceived threat, be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, most breeds are generally more accepting of strangers who are welcomed by their human family members.
Minimal Interest Maximum Vigilance
Playfulness Level
The likelihood of a breed remaining playful beyond puppyhood will vary. Certain breeds retain their enthusiasm for activities like tug-of-war or games of fetch well into their adult years, whereas others are more content to simply lounge on the sofa with you for the majority of time.
Low High
Adaptability Level
The ease with which a breed can adapt to changes in its environment can vary greatly. This adaptability encompasses how well a breed is likely to cope with alterations to its home and yard, noise levels, weather conditions, daily routines, and other fluctuations in everyday life.
Low High
Personality
Trainability Level
The ease with which a dog can be trained and its eagerness to learn new skills can depend on the breed. Some breeds are naturally inclined to please their owners and will readily accept training, while others tend to follow their own desires, often showing independence in how, when, and where they choose to do things.
Stubborn Eager
Barking Level
The frequency of vocalization, including barking and howling, will vary from breed to breed. Some may bark at each person who passes by and every bird in the sky, while others will typically bark only for a good reason. Additionally, a few breeds that do not typically bark will still be vocal, using different sounds to communicate.
Quiet Vocal
Energy Level
The level of physical exercise and mental engagement required will depend on the breed. High-energy breeds are always on the go. They are enthusiastic about their next activity and tend to be busy most of the time, running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. In contrast, low-energy breeds are akin to couch potatoes, content to just lounge around and take naps throughout the day.
Couch Potato Busybody
Need For Mental Stimulation
The extent of mental stimulation needed to keep a dog content and healthy will vary by breed. Dogs bred for specific purposes may need tasks involving decision-making, problem-solving, and concentration. Without sufficient mental exercise, these dogs can resort to creating their own activities to engage their minds, resulting in unwanted behaviors like chewing, digging, and escaping.
Minimal Engagement Intensive Interaction
Finnish Lapphund Health
Renowned for its strength and soundness, the robust Finnish Lapphund typically enjoys good overall health. Nevertheless, individuals may be prone to certain health risks. It is imperative for potential owners to be cognizant of these issues and to collaborate closely with a reputable breeder and veterinarian to monitor each dog’s health and wellness.
Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Finnish Lapphund ranges between 10 and 12 years, but with proper care, regular veterinary check-ups, and a balanced diet, many can thrive beyond these years.
Potential Health Risks
The Finnish Lapphund is known for its robust health, but like any breed and mixed breed, it can be susceptible to certain health conditions. Prospective owners should be aware of these potential risks and seek health clearances from breeders to ensure that the puppy’s parents have been tested and cleared of any breed-specific conditions. Here’s a list of some health issues that could affect a Finnish Lapphund:
- Hip Dysplasia: This is a condition where the femur doesn’t fit snugly into the pelvic socket of the hip joint. Hip dysplasia can exist with or without clinical signs. Some dogs will exhibit pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but signs of discomfort may go unnoticed for years.
- Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, this is a degenerative disease common to medium and large breeds. It is believed to be caused by varying growth rates of the three bones that make up a dog’s elbow, leading to joint laxity. This can lead to painful lameness.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A degenerative eye disorder, PRA eventually causes blindness from the loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye. It is detectable years before the dog shows any signs of blindness. Reputable breeders have their dogs’ eyes certified annually by a veterinary ophthalmologist and do not breed dogs with the disease.
- Cataracts: This condition causes opacity on the lens of the eye, resulting in poor vision. A dog’s eye(s) will have a cloudy appearance. Cataracts usually develop as a dog ages and can sometimes be surgically removed to improve vision.
- Ear Infections: Due to their heavy ear feathering, Finnish Lapphunds can be prone to ear infections. Keeping the ears clean and dry is vital.
- Autoimmune Diseases: As with any breed, the Finnish Lapphund can suffer from various autoimmune diseases. Regular health check-ups, and keeping an eye on any unusual signs or symptoms, can result in early detection and treatment.
It is vital for both prospective and current owners of the Finnish Lapphund to schedule regular veterinary check-ups. By maintaining a consistent evaluation routine, many potential health issues can be identified early and addressed promptly, affording the dog a greater opportunity for a lengthy, prosperous, and happy life.
Finnish Lapphund Personality
The Finnish Lapphund is renowned for its friendly and calm demeanor, making it a splendid choice for families and individuals alike. With a history deeply rooted in herding, this breed possesses a high level of intelligence and a strong work ethic. It is eager to please, which can facilitate training efforts. However, early socialization is paramount to nurture a well-rounded temperament.
This breed tends to exhibit a gentle and patient nature, making it a good fit for families with children. It should be denoted, however, that it is important to teach children how to interact appropriately with any dog. And although the breed generally gets along well with other dogs, all interactions should be supervised, especially in the initial stages of introduction.
The affectionate Finnish Lapphund enjoys companionship and forms strong bonds with its human companions. Due to this closeness, the breed may be initially reserved around strangers and can only tolerate being left alone for short periods. It is important to remember this breed thrives best when it is part of any family activity.
Finnish Lapphund Feeding & Nutrition
Proper nutrition plays a critical role in the overall health and well-being of a Finnish Lapphund. This breed thrives on high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared, under the supervision and approval of your veterinarian. When selecting a dog food, look for brands that list a high-quality source of protein, such as chicken, beef, or lamb, as the first ingredient.
For Finnish Lapphund puppies, it is crucial to provide a balanced diet formulated for growth and development. Puppies generally require three to four meals per day. As they transition into adulthood, the frequency of meals can be reduced to two times daily. Adult Finnish Lapphunds typically do well on two meals per day.
Portion control is vital to prevent overfeeding and maintain an appropriate weight. The amount of food a Finnish Lapphund requires depends on its age, size, build, metabolism, and activity level. A highly active adult Lapphund will require more food than a less active one.
Regularly monitoring your dog’s weight and body condition can help you make necessary adjustments to their diet. You should be able to feel but not see their ribs and see a noticeable waist when looking down at them.
Always have clean, fresh water available at all times. It’s also important to be mindful of treats, as giving too many can contribute to obesity. Opt for healthy treat options and use them sparingly.
Finnish Lapphund Training
Training a Finnish Lapphund can be a rewarding experience owing to their intelligent and eager-to-please nature. Originating as a herding breed, they possess a natural instinct to follow commands and work alongside their human companions. However, their intelligence also means they can be independent thinkers, so a consistent and positive approach to training is essential.
Starting training from a young age and incorporating socialization can significantly impact their behavior positively. Exposure to different people, places, and situations helps in developing a well-rounded and adaptable temperament. Finnish Lapphunds respond well to positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and play.
While they are not known for being excessive barkers, it is crucial to teach them proper barking etiquette from a young age to prevent any potential nuisance barking. They have a moderate wanderlust potential, so ensuring a secure environment and teaching reliable recall commands are important.
Their prey drive is not as high as in some other breeds, but it’s still crucial to work on their impulse control, especially if there are smaller pets in the household. Early training and socialization can help in managing their interactions with other animals.
Finnish Lapphunds have a moderate to high energy level, and incorporating training into their exercise routine can help in keeping their minds stimulated. Agility, obedience, and herding are excellent activities that channel their energy and intelligence in a positive direction.
Finnish Lapphund Exercise
Maintaining an active lifestyle is paramount for the Finnish Lapphund, a breed endowed with a considerable amount of energy and a penchant for activities. Originating as a herding dog, they possess a natural stamina and require regular exercise to stay fit and content.
Exercise Expectations
| Energy Level |
High |
| Exercise Requirements |
2 Hours/Day (Minimum), Daily Walks, Vigorous Running, Regular Exercise, Playing with Another Dog, Mental Stimulation |
Daily walks, coupled with play sessions in a securely fenced yard, can significantly contribute to meeting their exercise needs. They enjoy participating in various dog sports such as agility, obedience, and herding trials, activities that not only provide physical exertion but also mental stimulation. Engaging their intelligent minds is as crucial as tending to their physical needs.
