The Finnish Lapphund is known for its striking good looks, companionship, and sporting abilities.
It is a medium-sized herding dog breed from Finland with a thick coat that can be found in various markings and colors.
The dog’s thick double coat insulates them against cold temperatures, enabling it to work as a herding dog in extreme Finnish climates.
The breed features upright triangular ears and beautiful oval eyes.
In general, the Finnish Lapphund is an alert and agile dog capable of galloping at high speeds and has a reputation for being devoted and very affectionate to its family.
Finnish Lapphund breed profile overview
- Height: 18 – 21 inches (male), 16 – 19 inches (female)
- Weight: 33 – 35 pounds
- Life span: 12 – 15 years
- Coat type: Double, medium-length coat
- Coat color: Brown, black, tan, cream, blonde, or wolf stable with a range of markings
- Qualities: Smart, sociable, affectionate, friendly
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Group: Herding
History
The Finnish Lapphund is an old breed that gets its name from Lapland, an area near the Arctic Circle.
Residents of that region bred thick-coated dogs for herding reindeer and hunting. Since the breed is naturally cooperative and friendly, they quickly became excellent watchdogs and human companions.
The American Kennel Club recognized the Finnish Lapphund in 2011. The breed is less popular in North America than in Finland and other European countries.
The breed has been ranked amongst Finland’s top 20 most popular species thanks to its good temperament, health, and gorgeous looks.
Appearance
The Finnish Lapphunds originate from the “Spitz” family and are medium in size, ranging between 18 – 21 inches for males and 16 – 19 inches for females.
Thanks to their abundantly thick coast, these dogs appear strongly built. T
hey come in various colors, but black with tan markings is the most common. White markings on the feet and chest are typical and generally appear on the neck and face.
Personality
Finnish Lapphunds are intelligent and funny and demonstrate a strong herding instinct.
These dogs also have an active and lively personality and a keen willingness to learn, which makes them an excellent choice for family dogs. Moreover, they make excellent watchdogs and will alert you at the sight of any potential intruders.
Due to their intelligence and friendliness, these dogs make great family pets- they are easy to train and do not act out without thinking.
Some Lapphunds can be barkers and bite others, especially when excited by play, and this needs to be handled through proper training and care. Train your Finnish Lapphund with a professional to ensure you are not liable for dog bites.
Although children must constantly be monitored around dogs, a Finnish Lapphund’s gentle and relaxed nature makes it an excellent choice for families with children.
A bonus is that these furry friends make excellent therapy dogs due to their affection, personality, and fluff overload.
Exercise needs
The Finnish Lapphund is a very adaptive dog and can live in an environment with little space.
However, they still require daily exercise to remain active. It would be best if you aimed to spend at least 30 minutes per day exercising your Lapphund through hiking, jogging, daily walks, dancing, and energetic play sessions.
In addition to keeping them mentally active, you must also exercise them mentally through activities such as puzzles. Finnish Lapphunds can also excel at dog sports, such as herding trails and agility.
Grooming requirements
The Finnish Laphund sports a double coat: a soft and thick undercoat and a smooth outer coat.
Male Finnish Lapphunds are famous for their “lion-like” mane, but surprisingly, they are not very high-maintenance in grooming. But be warned; they do shed heavily.
The double layers mean they are not prone to knotting or getting tangled like other long-haired breeds.
You only need to spend 30 minutes per week brushing your dog. Higher shedding occurs during the fall and spring months when you must brush your dog daily to maintain the loose fur.
Do not shave your dog, as this can affect the coat’s ability to insulate the body during cold months and keep it cool in hot months.
Because Lapphunds do generally not have a smell, they still need to be bathed every month or so, depending on how dirty they get.
Check your dog’s ears weekly to see if they require cleaning. Brush its teeth daily and trim its nails every month.
You can always take your dog to a professional groomer or buy a DIY grooming kit to keep your furry friend looking great.
Training
Finnish Lapphunds are naturally affectionate and friendly, but they still need to be socialized from a young age. A puppy obedience session will allow it to learn basic manners and commands.
Moreover, it would be best if you aimed to expose the puppy to other dogs, people, and different locations to help increase its confidence and comfort.
As a dog owner, it is best to use training methods that include positive reinforcement, such as praise and treats.
Finnish Lapphunds are intelligent and quick to learn, provided their training sessions are fun and positive.
Remember that Lapphunds are social dogs and love to be around people. You might have to work harder to train your dog to be comfortable when alone.
You also should know the dogs will bark. As herders, they’re innately used to using barking to communicate with reindeer. Teaching a “no bark” command is vital.
If you fear that your puppy may have separation anxiety, it is best to consult a professional dog behaviorist or trainer who can guide you.
If you are not around most of the time, a Lapphund might not be the best dog for you.
Finnish Lapphund common health Issues
In general, the Finnish Lapphund is a very healthy breed. However, they are prone to certain genetic health problems, such as:
Hip and elbow dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a common orthopedic condition in many dog breeds, including the Finnish Lapphund. It occurs when the hip or elbow joint doesn’t fit snugly into the socket, leading to arthritis and varying degrees of pain.
Early detection is key. Regular veterinarian visits can help identify symptoms in their early stages.
Keeping your dog at a healthy weight can reduce strain on their joints, and controlled, low-impact exercise such as swimming or walking can help maintain joint health without overstraining.
Eye issues
Finnish Lapphunds can be susceptible to hereditary eye disorders, including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).
Regular veterinary eye examinations can help detect issues early.
If your pup spends time outdoors, consider doggy sunglasses to protect their eyes from UV rays.
Watch for signs of vision issues, such as hesitance to move in unfamiliar areas or bumping into objects.
Ear infections
Their floppy ears make Finnish Lapphunds prone to ear infections, especially if they are not regularly cleaned.
Gently clean their ears weekly with a vet-recommended solution to prevent wax buildup and infections.
Always ensure their ears are dry after baths or swimming to prevent moisture-related infections.
Look for signs of ear infections, such as scratching, shaking of the head, or unusual odors.
Skin conditions
Finnish Lapphunds may experience skin issues such as allergies or dermatitis.
Common allergens include pollen, dust, and certain food ingredients.
Regular brushing helps keep their coats healthy and can reduce the risk of skin issues.
If you suspect food allergies, consult your vet for a possible elimination diet to identify triggers.
See veterinary guidance for proper diagnosis and treatment options if skin issues arise.
Obesity
Finnish Lapphunds can quickly gain weight despite their active nature if you don’t properly manage your dog’s diet.
Feed a diet formulated for their age, weight, and activity level.
Engage in daily activities that promote exercise, such as walks, playtime, and agility training.
Monitor food portions and avoid excessive treats to maintain a healthy weight.
Nutrition and diet
Ensure your Finnish Lapphund can access fresh water and high-quality dog food that provides balanced nutrition.
After discussing the type and amount of food with your vet, give two meals daily in measured portions.
Pay extra attention to the treats you give your dog to prevent weight gain and overeating. Avoid giving your dog table scraps, and especially avoid cooked bones.
Do your research beforehand to see which human foods are safe for consumption. Consult your vet for any questions or concerns about your dog’s diet, age, or weight.
Living conditions
Finnish Lapphunds are flexible. Bred to be reindeer herders, the dogs can live in homes or apartments with restricted space.
If you move often, you will be happy to know that your Lapphund can adapt to various circumstances and environments.
Urban living
Finnish Lapphunds can thrive in apartment living in urban settings as long as they receive regular exercise.
While they are medium-sized dogs and don’t require an expansive yard, access to parks or open spaces for daily walks, playtime, and socialization is essential.
They enjoy exploring their surroundings, so living in a city with ample green areas can benefit their physical and mental stimulation.
Suburban settings
Suburbs are often ideal for Finnish Lapphunds.
They typically provide access to larger yards and outdoor spaces, allowing the dogs to play and exercise freely.
The quieter environment also contributes to socializing with neighbors and their pets, which is excellent for the breed’s sociable nature.
Families with children in suburban areas can find a great companion in a Finnish Lapphund, as they are gentle and affectionate.
Rural or countryside living
In rural settings, Finnish Lapphunds genuinely shine.
These dogs have been bred for herding and can excel in more open environments where they can run, roam, and engage in natural behaviors.
They enjoy having space to explore and can get involved in activities such as herding, agility training, or simply enjoying the outdoors.
The connection to a pastoral lifestyle resonates well with their heritage, making them happy and fulfilled.
Active lifestyles
Finnish Lapphunds require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy regardless of living conditions.
They thrive in homes where their owners lead an active lifestyle and can include them in outdoor activities—such as hiking, running, or playing fetch.
Their adaptability means they can live comfortably in various conditions, but owners must commit to providing regular physical and mental stimulation.
Living with children and other pets
Finnish Lapphunds adapt well to homes with children and other pets, thanks to their friendly and sociable disposition.
They can be excellent family dogs, enjoying playtime and companionship with kids. However, as with any dog, supervision is essential, particularly during playtime.
Proper socialization from an early age helps the dogs develop positive relationships with other animals.
Cost of buying a Finnish Lapphund
Although the Finnish Laphund is uncommon in North America, various breeders, rescue groups, and animal shelters often offer the dogs.
On average, a puppy from a reputable breeder will cost between $1,000 and $2,500.
Final thoughts about adopting a Finnish Lapphund
The Finnish Lapphund is a friendly, affectionate, and intelligent dog that makes an excellent watchdog and family pet.
Due to its versatile and friendly nature, this dog is ideal if you have a big family or often like to change your environment.
Make sure to buy your Lapphund puppy from a responsible breeder and do your homework beforehand.
Contact a personal injury lawyer if you sustain personal injuries from a dog or are dealing with a situation where your dog has attacked another party.
Natalie Padilla is a content writer who specializes in law and consumer safety. She also works with Yadegar, Minoofar, and Soleymani LLP to improve victims’ lives.