Finnish Lapponian Dog

Other names : Finnish Lapphund, Lapinkoira, Suomenlapinkoira

Traditionally used for herding reindeer, the Finnish Lapphund is a medium-sized spitz breed. It's a close relative of many other Nordic hunting and herding dogs. Some people describe the Finnish Lapphund as a smaller, fluffier version of the Husky. This working dog loves to learn and often takes part in obedience and agility trials. These friendly and alert little animals are an ideal pet for families with small children.

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Life expectancy	The Finnish Lapponian Dog has a life expectancy of between 12 and 14 years
Temperament	Intelligent
Size	Medium
Adult size	Female Between 16 and 19 in Male Between 18 and 20 in
Adult weight	Female Between 40 and 44 lb Male Between 42 and 46 lb
Coat colour	Black White Brown Blue Red Sand
Type of coat	Long
Eye colour	Brown
Purchase price	The Finnish Lapponian Dog costs between £600 and £900

Good to know

Some Finnish Lapphunds are quite sensitive. They need a gentle, soft hand, but should never be spoilt. A spoilt Lapphund will become very demanding and disobedient.

They are easily startled by loud or unfamiliar noises.

Owning a Finnish Lapphund is a long-term commitment. A significant number of them live up to 17 years of age. That’s about 84 years old in human years!

More details about the Finnish Lapponian Dog

Finnish Lapponian Dog: Origins and history

This breed was first developed by the Sami people of Northern Scandinavia. The Sami people lived in smaller tribes which sustained themselves through hunting, trading and herding wild stock. They used the Finnish Lapphund to help round up large herds of reindeers. But as such traditional ways of life were replaced by the spread of industrialisation, the Finnish Lapphund became more of a companion dog; today it's the 6th most popular companion dog in its native Finland. It's still relatively unknown outside of Northern Europe. The first American litter wasn't born until 1988.

Physical characteristics of the Finnish Lapponian Dog

Medium-sized. Strongly built. Short sturdy legs. Deep chest covered by a thick plum of fur. Thick neck. Small head with a short muzzle.

FCI classification of the Finnish Lapponian Dog

Group 5 - Spitz and primitive types
Section 3 : Nordic Watchdogs and Herders

Finnish Lapponian Dog: Characteristics

More or less affectionate

Very affectionate. Slightly too big to be a lapdog, but they still enjoy lots of strokes and cuddles.

Moderately playful

A high-energy dog. Prefers engaging games that provide both a physical and mental challenge.

More or less calm

Generally very calm and relaxed. No issues with hyperactivity or behavioural problems.

High intelligence

Very high level of intelligence. Capable of understanding the most complex voice commands. Will get bored easily with the wrong kind of training.

Moderate prey drive

More of a herding dog rather than a hunting dog. Still, they do have a tendency to chase cats and squirrels if they’re not socialised from an early age.

Moderately fearful of strangers

Very friendly and social around strangers and new people. Naturally curious and confident.

Moderately independent

This dog has a strong independent streak. Will always understand voice and obedience commands, but might not always respond.

Finnish Lapponian Dog: Behaviour

Can't tolerate being left alone

Extended periods of solitude will have a profound effect on this dog's health. They’re social animals who need plenty of company. Bred to work and live alongside humans.

Very easy to train

Responds really well to reward-based training methods. Naturally intelligent. Strong work ethic. Loves to please its owner.

Tends to be very vocal

Can be quite vocal, especially when they’re playing or working. Makes lots of noise if they haven’t seen you for a few hours.

Has a tendency to run away

Quite an adventurous and curious dog. Does have a tendency to go exploring.

Can be destructive

These dogs are very prone to separation anxiety, which can lead to destructive behaviour.

Moderately food motivated

A small dog with a modest appetite. Not known for being greedy or gluttonous.

Very good watchdog

An excellent watchdog. Keen, alert, and will quickly spot anything suspicious. A little dog that can make a big noise!

Training a Finnish Lapponian Dog

Responds really well to reward-based training methods. Naturally intelligent. Strong work ethic. Loves to please its owner.

Finnish Lapponian Dog: Lifestyle

Not very compatible with living in a flat

Small enough to live comfortably in a flat. Just make sure they get plenty of exercise and outdoor time.

Needs a lot of exercise

60 mins a day. They need long, interesting walks. Exercise should include high-energy games like fetch and catch.

Moderately easy to travel with

Easy enough to transport by car, but it’s always worth exercising them before long journeys. A tired dog is much easier to transport.

Breed compatibility Finnish Lapponian Dog

Moderately compatible with cats

This all depends on training and socialisation. Without it, these herding dogs will torment any cats they come into contact with.

Compatible with other dogs

The Finnish Lapphund is a real pack animal; they love the company of other dogs, and especially other Spitz breeds.

Compatible with children

The perfect family dog. An ideal companion for young children.

Moderately compatible with senior owners

A really good pet for elderly dog owners. The Lapphund has manageable exercise needs, is easy to handle, and has a calm, relaxed disposition.

Highly recommended for a first-time owner

A good choice for first-time dog owners. However, inexperienced handlers must familiarise themselves with reward-based training and socialisation methods.

Finnish Lapponian Dog: Purchase price

The initial cost of buying a Finnish Lapphund puppy will be between £600 to £900. The average cost to keep and care for a Finnish Lapphund will be between £60 to £90 monthly.