Are you considering getting a Finnish Lapphund as your new furry companion? If so, you’re in for a treat! Finnish Lapphunds are a highly intelligent and loyal breed that are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. Originally bred for herding reindeer in the Arctic, these dogs are hardworking and have a strong desire to please their owners. With their thick, fluffy coats and adorable faces, Finnish Lapphunds are sure to steal your heart. However, before bringing one home, it’s important to understand their unique characteristics and needs to ensure a happy and healthy life together.
Breed Category: Herding
Country of Origin: Finland
Average Size:43-52 cm (at the shoulder)
Average Weight:15-24 kg
Average Life Span: 12-14 years
Grooming Requirements: Moderate
Exercise Requirements:Moderate to high
History and Origin
The Finnish Lapphund is a breed of dog that originated in Lapland, a region that spans across Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. The breed was originally used by the Sami people, who are indigenous to the region, as a herding and guarding dog. The Finnish Lapphund is a medium-sized dog that is known for its thick, fluffy coat and friendly personality.
The history of the Finnish Lapphund can be traced back to the 17th century, when the Sami people first began using the breed as a working dog. The breed was used to herd reindeer, which were a vital source of food and clothing for the Sami people. The Finnish Lapphund was also used as a guard dog, protecting the Sami people and their livestock from predators such as wolves and bears.
In the early 20th century, the Finnish Lapphund almost became extinct due to the decline of the reindeer herding industry and the introduction of other dog breeds to the region. However, a group of dedicated breeders worked to revive the breed, and in 1945 the Finnish Kennel Club officially recognized the Finnish Lapphund as a breed. Today, the Finnish Lapphund is still used as a herding and guarding dog in Lapland, but it has also become a popular companion dog in other parts of the world.
The Finnish Lapphund is a highly intelligent and trainable breed. They are known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners, and they make excellent family pets. The breed is also known for its adaptability, and can thrive in a variety of environments, from rural farms to urban apartments. However, the Finnish Lapphund does require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
The Finnish Lapphund is a relatively healthy breed, with few genetic health problems. However, like all breeds, they are prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and eye problems. It is important for potential owners to research the breed and choose a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings on their dogs.
In conclusion, the Finnish Lapphund is a fascinating breed with a rich history and a bright future. From its origins as a working dog in Lapland to its current popularity as a companion dog around the world, the
Size and Breed Category
The Finnish Lapphund is a medium-sized dog breed that belongs to the Spitz family. They are known for their thick, double-layered coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black, brown, and cream. The breed has a muscular build and a wedge-shaped head with erect ears. They have a friendly and alert expression, which makes them an excellent companion for families with children. Finnish Lapphunds are highly adaptable and can thrive in both urban and rural environments. They are also known for their intelligence and trainability, which makes them suitable for various activities such as obedience, agility, and herding.
Finnish Lapphunds are classified as a herding breed, which means they have a natural instinct to control and move livestock. They are also known for their endurance and can work for long hours without getting tired. The breed is highly valued in their native Finland, where they are used to herd reindeer. Finnish Lapphunds are also popular as family pets due to their affectionate and loyal nature. They are known to form strong bonds with their owners and are always eager to please. Overall, the Finnish Lapphund is a versatile breed that excels in various roles, from herding to companionship.
Fur Length and Colour
The fur of the Finnish Lapphund is thick and double-layered, providing excellent insulation against the cold weather of its native Finland. The outer coat is long and straight, while the undercoat is soft and dense. The fur on the neck and shoulders is particularly thick and fluffy, giving the dog a distinctive appearance. The fur on the tail is also long and bushy, adding to the dog’s overall charm. Finnish Lapphunds come in a range of colours, including black, brown, cream, and grey. Some dogs have a combination of colours, such as black and tan or brown and white. The fur colour can vary within a litter, with some puppies being darker or lighter than others.
The Finnish Lapphund’s fur is an important part of its identity, as it is a working breed that has traditionally been used for herding reindeer. The thick fur protects the dog from the harsh weather conditions of the Arctic Circle, where temperatures can drop to -40°C. The fur also helps the dog blend in with its surroundings, making it less visible to predators. The Finnish Lapphund’s fur requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition, as it can become matted and tangled if left unattended. Regular brushing and occasional bathing are recommended to keep the fur clean and healthy.
Termperament and Trainability
Finnish Lapphunds are known for their friendly and affectionate temperament. They are loyal and devoted to their owners, making them great family pets. They are also known to be good with children and other pets, making them a great addition to any household. However, they can be reserved with strangers and may require proper socialization to prevent shyness or fearfulness. Finnish Lapphunds are also known for their vocal nature, often barking to alert their owners of any potential danger.
In terms of trainability, Finnish Lapphunds are intelligent and eager to please their owners. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods, such as treats and praise. However, they can be stubborn at times and may require patience and consistency from their owners. Finnish Lapphunds are also known for their high energy levels and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They excel in activities such as agility and obedience training, and their herding instincts make them great candidates for activities such as herding trials.
Known Health Conditions
Finnish Lapphunds are prone to certain health conditions that owners should be aware of. One of the most common issues is hip dysplasia, which is a genetic condition that affects the hip joint. This can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis in the affected dog. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help prevent hip dysplasia, but it is important to have your Finnish Lapphund screened for this condition before breeding or participating in high-impact activities. Another health concern for Finnish Lapphunds is progressive retinal atrophy, which is a degenerative eye disease that can lead to blindness. This condition is also genetic, and there is no cure, but early detection can help slow the progression of the disease. Regular eye exams are recommended for Finnish Lapphunds to monitor for signs of progressive retinal atrophy.
Another health condition that Finnish Lapphunds may be prone to is epilepsy, which is a neurological disorder that can cause seizures. Epilepsy can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, brain injury, and infections. While there is no cure for epilepsy, medication can help manage the seizures and improve the dog’s quality of life. It is important to work closely with your veterinarian to develop a treatment plan for your Finnish Lapphund if they are diagnosed with epilepsy. Additionally, Finnish Lapphunds may be at risk for certain skin conditions, such as allergies and hot spots. These conditions can cause itching, redness, and discomfort for the dog. Regular grooming and a healthy diet can help prevent skin issues, but it is important to seek veterinary care if your Finnish Lapphund is experiencing skin problems.
Openness to Strangers
Finnish Lapphunds are known for their friendly and welcoming nature towards strangers. They are a breed that is naturally curious and enjoys meeting new people. When encountering someone new, they will often approach them with a wagging tail and a friendly demeanor. This makes them great companions for those who enjoy socializing with others.
Their openness to strangers also extends to other animals. Finnish Lapphunds are generally good with other dogs and pets, making them a great addition to multi-pet households. However, as with any breed, early socialization and training is important to ensure that they develop good manners and behavior around other animals. Overall, the Finnish Lapphund’s friendly and welcoming nature makes them a great choice for those looking for a sociable and outgoing companion.
Playfulness Level
The Finnish Lapphund is a highly playful breed of dog that loves to engage in various activities. They are known for their energetic and lively nature, which makes them an excellent companion for families with children. These dogs are always up for a game of fetch or a run in the park, and they thrive on human interaction. Their playful nature also makes them great candidates for agility training, as they are quick learners and enjoy the challenge of new tasks. Overall, the Finnish Lapphund is a fun-loving breed that brings joy and laughter to any household.
Despite their playful nature, the Finnish Lapphund is also a highly intelligent breed that requires mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They enjoy learning new tricks and tasks, and their eagerness to please their owners makes them a joy to train. These dogs are also highly social and enjoy spending time with other dogs, making them a great addition to multi-dog households. However, their playful nature can sometimes lead to mischief, so it’s important to provide them with plenty of toys and activities to keep them occupied. Overall, the Finnish Lapphund is a highly entertaining breed that is sure to bring a smile to your face.
Suitability as a Pet for Children
Finnish Lapphunds are a friendly and loyal breed that make great family pets. They are known for their gentle nature and love to be around children. With their high energy levels, they are always up for a game of fetch or a run around the park. Finnish Lapphunds are also highly intelligent and easy to train, making them a great choice for families with young children who want to get involved in their pet’s training. Additionally, their thick, fluffy coats make them perfect for snuggling up with on cold winter nights.
Exercise Needs
Finnish Lapphunds are highly energetic dogs that require a significant amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. As a medium-sized breed, they need at least 60 minutes of daily exercise, which can be achieved through a combination of walks, runs, and playtime. These dogs are known for their love of outdoor activities, so owners should take them on long walks or hikes in nature whenever possible. Finnish Lapphunds also enjoy playing games such as fetch, frisbee, and agility training, which can help them burn off excess energy and stay mentally stimulated.
In addition to physical exercise, Finnish Lapphunds also benefit from mental stimulation. These dogs are highly intelligent and require mental challenges to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Owners can provide mental stimulation through activities such as obedience training, puzzle toys, and scent work. Finnish Lapphunds also enjoy spending time with their owners, so incorporating them into daily activities such as running errands or going on outings can help keep them mentally stimulated. Overall, Finnish Lapphunds require a combination of physical and mental exercise to maintain their health and happiness.
Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family
Finnish Lapphunds have a reputation for being friendly towards other pets. They are known to get along well with cats and other dogs, as long as they are socialized properly from a young age. Finnish Lapphunds are also known to be gentle with children, making them a great family pet. However, as with any breed, individual personalities can vary and it is important to introduce new pets slowly and carefully.
Housing Requirements
Finnish Lapphunds require a living space that is large enough to accommodate their active nature. They are a breed that enjoys being outdoors and requires regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. A garden or yard is ideal for them to run around in, but they can also adapt to living in an apartment as long as they receive enough exercise. It is important to note that they are a breed that sheds heavily twice a year, so their living space should be easy to clean and maintain. Additionally, they are a social breed and thrive on human interaction, so their living space should be in close proximity to their owners.
Finnish Lapphunds require a comfortable and cozy sleeping area that is warm and dry. They are a breed that enjoys being close to their owners and may prefer to sleep in the same room as them. A soft and comfortable bed is ideal for them to rest their joints and muscles after a day of exercise. It is important to note that they are a breed that enjoys chewing, so their sleeping area should be free of any potential hazards such as electrical cords or small objects that they could swallow. Additionally, they are a breed that enjoys having toys to play with, so their sleeping area should have a few toys to keep them entertained.
Summary
Finnish Lapphunds make great pets for active families who enjoy spending time outdoors. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. Their friendly and loyal nature means they get along well with children and other pets. They have a thick coat that requires regular grooming, but they are generally healthy and low-maintenance. Finnish Lapphunds are a great choice for those looking for a loving and adventurous companion.
Finnish Lapphund Dog FAQS
Yes, Finnish Lapphunds are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train.
Yes, Finnish Lapphunds are known to be great with children and make excellent family pets.
Finnish Lapphunds can be prone to hip dysplasia and eye problems. Regular vet check-ups are recommended.
While Finnish Lapphunds can adapt to apartment living, they do require daily exercise and access to outdoor space.
Finnish Lapphunds are known to be vocal and may bark to alert their owners of strangers or other animals.
Yes, Finnish Lapphunds are an active breed and require daily exercise such as walks or runs.
Finnish Lapphunds have a lifespan of 12-14 years on average.
Finnish Lapphunds have a thick double coat and should be brushed at least once a week to prevent matting.
Finnish Lapphunds usually grow to be between 40-52 cm tall.
The average weight of a Finnish Lapphund is between 15-24 kg.
