Dog Breeds - Finnish Lapphund

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed displays towards family members and familiar individuals varies significantly. Certain breeds may exhibit a reserved or aloof demeanor with everyone except their owner, while others possess a naturally friendly disposition treating everyone they know as their closest companion.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The level of tolerance and patience a breed demonstrates towards children's behavior, as well as its overall family-friendly nature, can vary among different breeds. It is crucial to emphasize that dogs should always be supervised whenever they are around young children or children of any age who have limited exposure to dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The general friendliness a breed exhibits towards other dogs can vary significantly. While it is essential to monitor and supervise all dog interactions and introductions, certain breeds tend to have a more innate inclination to get along with other dogs whether in a home setting or in public.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair a breed typically sheds varies among different breeds. Breeds with high shedding tendencies will usually require more frequent brushing to manage their loose hair. It is important to note that breeds with excess shedding are more likely to trigger certain types of allergies in sensitive individuals and may also necessitate more consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
Considering the grooming needs of a breed entails evaluating the frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming, and other forms of coat maintenance. It's important to factor in the time, patience, and budget you have available for this level of care.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
Considering the propensity of a breed to drool. If you have a strong inclination towards cleanliness, dogs that tend to leave trails of slobber on your arm or significant wet patches on your clothing might not align with your preferences.
COAT TYPE +
Double
COAT LENGTH +
Medium

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
Evaluating the level of receptiveness a breed typically exhibits towards strangers. Certain breeds may display reserved or cautious behavior around unfamiliar individuals, regardless of the setting whereas other breeds may eagerly embrace the opportunity to meet new people whenever they are present!
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
Considering a breed's enduring enthusiasm for play, even beyond the puppy stage. Certain breeds will maintain a keen interest in games like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years, while others will generally prefer to spend most of their time relaxing on the couch with you finding contentment in low-key activities.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Assessing a breed's inclination to notify you of the presence of strangers. Such breeds are more prone to react to any perceived threat, be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. Additionally, these breeds are likely to become more receptive towards strangers who enter the household and are welcomed by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
Assessing a breed's adaptability to change encompassing alterations in living conditions, noise levels, weather, daily routines and other fluctuations in day-to-day life.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
Considering the ease of training your dog and their willingness to learn new things. Certain breeds are highly motivated to please their owners and are eager learners, while others may prioritize their own desires and exhibit a more independent nature making training efforts more challenging.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
Evaluation of the exercise and mental stimulation requirements for a breed. High-energy breeds possess an abundance of enthusiasm and are always ready for their next thrilling escapade. They thrive on activities such as running, jumping, and playing, actively engaging throughout the day. Conversely, low-energy breeds resemble contented couch potatoes finding joy in lounging around and indulging in peaceful snoozes.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
Assessing the frequency of vocalization in a breed, encompassing barks or howls. Certain breeds exhibit a propensity to bark at every passer-by or even a bird by the window, while others reserve barking for specific circumstances. Furthermore, certain barkless breeds may still express themselves through alternative vocalizations utilizing other sounds to communicate their needs and emotions.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
Considering the level of mental stimulation necessary for a breed to maintain happiness and overall health. Purpose-bred dogs often possess jobs that demand decision-making skills, problem-solving abilities, concentration, and other qualities. Insufficient mental exercise can lead them to create their own endeavors to keep their minds occupied and these projects may not align with your preferences or expectations. Thus, providing adequate mental stimulation is vital to promote their well-being and prevent undesirable behaviors.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of affection a breed displays towards family members and familiar individuals varies significantly. Certain breeds may exhibit a reserved or aloof demeanor with everyone except their owner, while others possess a naturally friendly disposition treating everyone they know as their closest companion.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The level of tolerance and patience a breed demonstrates towards children's behavior, as well as its overall family-friendly nature, can vary among different breeds. It is crucial to emphasize that dogs should always be supervised whenever they are around young children or children of any age who have limited exposure to dogs.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The general friendliness a breed exhibits towards other dogs can vary significantly. While it is essential to monitor and supervise all dog interactions and introductions, certain breeds tend to have a more innate inclination to get along with other dogs whether in a home setting or in public.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair a breed typically sheds varies among different breeds. Breeds with high shedding tendencies will usually require more frequent brushing to manage their loose hair. It is important to note that breeds with excess shedding are more likely to trigger certain types of allergies in sensitive individuals and may also necessitate more consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

Considering the grooming needs of a breed entails evaluating the frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming, and other forms of coat maintenance. It's important to factor in the time, patience, and budget you have available for this level of care.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

Considering the propensity of a breed to drool. If you have a strong inclination towards cleanliness, dogs that tend to leave trails of slobber on your arm or significant wet patches on your clothing might not align with your preferences.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Double

COAT SPECTRUM

Medium

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

Evaluating the level of receptiveness a breed typically exhibits towards strangers. Certain breeds may display reserved or cautious behavior around unfamiliar individuals, regardless of the setting whereas other breeds may eagerly embrace the opportunity to meet new people whenever they are present!

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

Considering a breed's enduring enthusiasm for play, even beyond the puppy stage. Certain breeds will maintain a keen interest in games like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years, while others will generally prefer to spend most of their time relaxing on the couch with you finding contentment in low-key activities.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

Assessing a breed's inclination to notify you of the presence of strangers. Such breeds are more prone to react to any perceived threat, be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. Additionally, these breeds are likely to become more receptive towards strangers who enter the household and are welcomed by their family.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

Assessing a breed's adaptability to change encompassing alterations in living conditions, noise levels, weather, daily routines and other fluctuations in day-to-day life.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

Considering the ease of training your dog and their willingness to learn new things. Certain breeds are highly motivated to please their owners and are eager learners, while others may prioritize their own desires and exhibit a more independent nature making training efforts more challenging.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

Evaluation of the exercise and mental stimulation requirements for a breed. High-energy breeds possess an abundance of enthusiasm and are always ready for their next thrilling escapade. They thrive on activities such as running, jumping, and playing, actively engaging throughout the day. Conversely, low-energy breeds resemble contented couch potatoes finding joy in lounging around and indulging in peaceful snoozes.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Frequent

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

Considering the level of mental stimulation necessary for a breed to maintain happiness and overall health. Purpose-bred dogs often possess jobs that demand decision-making skills, problem-solving abilities, concentration, and other qualities. Insufficient mental exercise can lead them to create their own endeavors to keep their minds occupied and these projects may not align with your preferences or expectations. Thus, providing adequate mental stimulation is vital to promote their well-being and prevent undesirable behaviors.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Brindle	057
Brindle & White	059
Cream	076
Fawn	082
Fawn & White	086
Fawn Brindle	088
White	199
White & Brindle	203
Gray & White	105
Fawn Brindle & White	089
White & Fawn	207
Blue	037
Chocolate	071

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Black Markings	002
White Markings	014
Black Mask	004
Spotted	021
Brindle Markings	007
Piebald	025
Ticked	013
Tan Points	029

About The Breed

The Finnish Lapphund known for its resilience to harsh weather conditions, hails from the frigid realms north of the Arctic Circle. This remarkable and empathetic breed is considered one of the friendliest among all dog breeds as long as it discerns you're not a reindeer rustler. With its captivating appearance including a lush coat, adorable spitz-like face and elegantly curved tail abundantly coated Finnish Lapphunds are easily recognizable as Nordic dogs. Despite standing around 20 inches tall at the shoulder they possess surprising muscularity and substance.

With unmatched agility they effortlessly transition from a trot to a full gallop within a fraction of a second. Lappies naturally exude a friendly and submissive demeanor as companions albeit a bit cautious around unfamiliar individuals. They yearn for companionship and become dispirited when neglected. A distinctive trait deeply ingrained in this breed is their strong 'startle reflex,' a reflex developed over centuries of evading the antlers of tempestuous reindeer. Despite their tendency to shed and vocalize Lappies are widely cherished as pets in their native land.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A FINNISH LAPPHUND

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Finnish Lapphund: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	Finnish Lapphunds are generally robust and healthy dogs; however, there are a few conditions that the breed can be prone to. Among these conditions are elbow and hip dysplasia, which can be identified through X-ray examinations. Another condition that can affect some Lappies is progressive retinal atrophy leading to gradual vision loss. Responsible breeders take measures to ensure that their breeding stock is checked for these potential health issues. As with any breed it is advisable to regularly check a Lappy's ears for signs of infection and maintain good dental hygiene by brushing their teeth frequently. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Patella Evaluation Hip Evaluation Degenerative Myelopathy (Common Variant) (DM) - DNA Test Progressive Retinal Atrophy, PRCD (PRA-prcd, PRCD) - DNA Test Pompe Disease (GSD II) - DNA Test Elbow Evaluation Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Grooming

	The Finnish Lapphund boasts a double coat, consisting of a smooth outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat. Regular brushing is recommended, with more frequent brushing required during shedding seasons, to eliminate dirt and remove loose hair, ensuring the dog's coat remains in optimal condition. One advantage of Lappies is that they do not typically have a strong doggie odor so occasional baths are usually sufficient. However, it is crucial to note that shaving a Finnish Lapphund is not recommended as it compromises their ability to regulate body temperature limiting their capacity to stay cool in warm weather and warm in cold weather. Similar to all dog breeds, regular nail trims are necessary to prevent overgrowth which can cause discomfort difficulty walking, and running.

Exercise

	Finnish Lapphunds exhibit a calm temperament and have moderate exercise needs. Providing a long, brisk walk on a daily basis is typically sufficient to keep them healthy and content. While Lappies are not known for exercising themselves, engaging in a half-hour play session with their owner involving a ball or interacting with another dog can also fulfill their exercise requirements. Given their herding background, many Finnish Lapphunds find enjoyment in participating in herding trials. Additionally, they can excel in various canine sports such as agility, obedience, rally and tracking allowing them to showcase their skills and abilities.

Training

	Early socialization and participation in puppy training classes are highly recommended for Finnish Lapphunds. It is crucial to gently expose the puppy to a wide range of people, places and various situations between the ages of approximately 7 weeks and 4 months. This practice helps ensure that the Lappy develops into a well-adjusted and well-behaved companion. Similar to other herding breeds Finnish Lapphunds are intelligent and quick learners but they can also exhibit independence or even strong-willed tendencies. Being a pack-oriented dog, Lappies desire the company of their family, and leaving them alone for extended periods regularly can lead to undesirable behaviors.

Nutrition

	Feeding a Finnish Lapphund with a high-quality dog food that is suitable for their specific life stage (puppy, adult, or senior) will provide them with all the necessary nutrients they require. While treats can be useful for training purposes it's important to avoid overfeeding as it can lead to obesity. Table scraps should be given sparingly if at all, and cooked bones should be strictly avoided. Educating oneself about which human foods are safe for dogs and which should be avoided is crucial. If there are any concerns regarding the dog's weight or diet it's advisable to consult with a veterinarian for guidance and advice.

Historiography

Lapland a region situated north of the Arctic Circle, spans portions of Norway Sweden Finland and northwestern Russia. Its name is derived from the Sami also known as the Lapp people, who have inhabited the sparsely populated region for thousands of years. The Sami in ancient times developed a spitz-type dog with a profuse coat known as the 'Lapps' dog' or Lapphund. These dogs were primarily used for hunting reindeer across the vast and barren tundra. As the Sami transitioned from a hunter-gatherer lifestyle to full-scale nomadism several centuries ago, they became reindeer herders, migrating with their herds in search of suitable grazing land. Historical records indicate that the Sami lived in tents or turf huts and moved in groups comprising five or six families while supplementing their diet through hunting and fishing on their journey. Over time, the Lapphund adapted alongside its human companions. While continuing their role as hunting dogs, they also served as herders, guardians and close companions to the Sami people. These Arctic breeds, including the Lapphund developed a natural sociability, likely stemming from their shared practice of seeking warmth by huddling together with humans and other dogs during exceedingly cold nights.

Unlike the popular portrayals of adorable reindeer pulling Santa's sleigh in December real reindeer are known for their stubborn and occasionally aggressive demeanor, making the control and management of herds a challenging task. Such a job requires dogs with exceptional courage, quickness and intelligence, qualities that have become ingrained in the Lapphund breed. Reindeer herding has long been the foundation of Sami society and even today, Lapland is home to hundreds of thousands of reindeer. While modern advancements have encroached upon traditional reindeer territories, it is still possible to witness Finnish Lapphunds, along with their Swedish Lapphund counterparts, assisting in moving herds across the vast frozen landscapes of the far north.