Finnish Lapphund

In the 20th century, both Sweden and Finland laid claim to this Sami working dog, and as a result two breeds developed: the Swedish Lapphund, or Lapland Spitz, and the Finnish Lapphund, or Lapinkoira. Both are sturdy, active dogs with a strong herding instinct and insulating double coats. The Finnish breed was originally used to herd reindeer. Today, as well as usually herding sheep and cattle, it is more often kept as a companion.

Breed name synonyms: Lappish Herder, Lapp

HISTORY

Unfortunately there are no written records about the Finnish Lapphund’s history and origin, since the breed was developed many years before literacy entered its region of origin. A legend suggests that the Finnish Lapphund is a descendant of the dogs used for hunting reindeers, by northernmost indigenous tribes of the Nordic countries, named – the Sami. Later on, the Lapphund role evolved from hunting, to protecting and herding reindeers. Kept exclusively by semi-nomadic tribes, it is believed that the Lapp is related to other Scandinavian dog breeds and some Russian Spitz type dogs.
Originally popular only in its native Finnland, the Finnish Lapphund’s popularity began to rise in the United States, when Finnish immigrants brought their Lapps to the new continent.

PERSONALITY

Finnish Lapphunds are quick and crafty, with a strong startle reflex. They can be described as focused, observant, watchful and intelligent, versatile herding dogs. They are known for overthinking and analyzing every situation before acting upon it.
Finnish Lapphunds are very devoted to their families and often suffer from separation anxiety. True to their herding heritage, they make good watch dogs, because they are vocal and always on alert. On the flip side they make poor guard dogs. Potential attackers and intruders may be ‘’punished’’ with warm welcomes and affections. In spite of their loving relationship with humans, Finnish Lapphunds tend to be aggressive with other animals, especially if not raised together.

TRAITS

The Finnish Lapphund is medium-sized, but strong and sturdily built, Spitz-type of dog. The hallmark of the breed is the cuteness reflecting, soft and happy facial expression. The triangular shaped ears must be either erect or semi-erect and the eyes are dark and oval.
Lapps have profuse, weather resistant and practically waterproof double coats. The under coat is short and fluffy, while the top coat is long and luxurious. The coat comes in variety of colors such as white, sable, red, brown or black, but the most common combination is black with tan. Spectacles-like markings around the eyes are quite common.
Mature males should be recognizably masculine, while in comparison females have softer and more feminine appearance. Male Finninsh Lapphunds should ideally stand 18-21’’ (46-53cm) at the withers and females should stand 16-19’’ (41-48cm). They weigh approximately 33-53Ib (14-24kg).

HANDLING

Finnish Lapphunds are considered to be easy to train breed, because they are extremely intelligent, have excellent observational skills and are relatively submissive. They are very obedient, quick learners who enjoy trainings and working with people. Finnish Lapphunds are soft and sensitive and respond best to positive reinforcement and reward based training regimens.
Finnish Lapphunds tend to herd other animals and even children, but need to be trained out of that habit.
If properly trained and socialized Lapps are friendly and engaging, even with strangers. Because of their patience, tolerance and gentleness, they have almost legendary reputation with children.

HEALTH

As a breed, the Finnish Lapphund is considered to be extremely healthy, with few documented health issues. The main health issues are categorized in two groups – musculoskeletal conditions and eye conditions. The most common musculoskeletal conditions are hip dysplasia and osteogenesis imperfecta. Common eye conditions include progressive retinal atrophy (which causes gradual loss of vision), hereditary cataract, persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous, persistent pupillary membrane and multifocal retinal dysplasia.
Lapps are prone to Pompe’s disease – inherited disorder in which certain tissues, organs and especially muscles have impaired function, as a result of complex sugar – glycogen buildup in the body’s cells.

The average lifespan of the Finnish Lapphund is estimated to be 13-14 years.