Finnish Lapphund

Dog Breed Profile

Home Dog Breeds Herding Finnish Lapphund

Finnish Lapphund History

The Finnish Lapphund is a medium-sized Molosser-type working dog from Finland and Lapland. It is one of the rarest of the Nordic breeds, but historically it was also one of the most widespread. The yarddog (a kind of sled dog) was the original purpose. The kennel club in Finland now estimates the total population at 2,500–5,000. A dual-purpose spitz-type, the Lapphund originated in the Arctic regions and was originally used by the Sami people as transport dogs and herders. The Spitz type makes the Lapphund a keen hunter and an excellent watch and guard dog, while the working characteristics of the Pyrenees, the Rottweiler, and the Clumber Spaniel give the Lapphund its stamina, intelligence, and herding instincts. A versatile, intelligent, and good-natured worker, the Lapphund is today a popular pet and companion, often competing in obedience, agility, and tracking trials.

Time of Origin

1900s

Country of Origin

Finland, Norway, Sweden

Ancestry

Spitz, Wolf

Finnish Lapphund Physical Characteristics

The Finnish Lapphund is a medium-large breed of herding and working sled dogs that originated in the Arctic areas of Finland. It has a large, strong, muscular body and distinctive long, corded tail. The breed is gray, sable, or light brown in color, with black masks and ears. The Finnish Lapphund has a white blaze on their forehead. The breed is intelligent, friendly, active, and athletic.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Unknown

Coat Colors

Unknown

Height Range

Male Height Range: 17 – 20 inches

Female Height Range: 16 – 19 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 33 – 52 lbs

Female Weight Range: 33 – 52 lbs

Finnish Lapphund Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

12-15 yrs

Finnish Lapphund Health Concerns

Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Hip And Elbow Dysplasia

Finnish Lapphund Temperament and Behaviour

A typical Finnish Lapphund is brave, determined, and very active. Although they are independent and strong-willed, they are also extremely loyal to their family. They are sociable and friendly with other dogs and are known to get along well with children. They are very intelligent, but can be difficult to train at times.

Finnish Lapphund Activity Requirements

The Finnish Lapphund is a spitz-type dog that was originally bred as a reindeer herder. These dogs are intelligent, hardworking, and loyal. While the Finnish Lapphund is classified as a Working Dog, they are happiest when they are with their families. They do not need hours of vigorous exercise, but they do require regular walks or games of fetch. These dogs are best suited to homes with yards where they can roam freely. If you are looking for an energetic dog, the Finnish Lapphund is not for you. These dogs are fairly low energy, but they are devoted to their families. If you are looking for a quiet, affectionate companion, the Finnish Lapphund may be the perfect dog for you.

Miles Per Day

Unknown

Activity Per Day

Unknown

Daily Food

2.7 cups

Kennel Club Recognition

American Kennel Club

Recognized by the American Kennel Club

Finnish Lapphund is part of the Herding group.

Visit the American Kennel Club website.

The Kennel Club

Recognized by The Kennel Club

Finnish Lapphund is part of the Pastoral group.

Visit the Kennel Club website.

Australian National Kennel Council

Recognized by the Australian National Kennel Council

Finnish Lapphund is part of the Working group.

Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.

Canadian Kennel Club

Recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club

Finnish Lapphund is part of the Herding group.

Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.