Dog Breeds - Lapponian Herder

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a specific breed is inclined to display towards their family members or familiar individuals. Several breeds may appear distant and disinterested towards everyone except their owner whereas other breeds treat all acquaintances as their closest companions.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The degree of patience and tolerance a breed exhibits towards children's behavior along with their overall family-friendly disposition. It is crucial to supervise dogs at all times when they are around young children or children of any age who have limited experience with dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The degree of patience and tolerance a breed exhibits towards children's behavior along with their overall family-friendly disposition. It is crucial to supervise dogs at all times when they are around young children or children of any age who have limited experience with dogs.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair that a particular breed is prone to shedding. Breeds with high shedding tendencies will require more frequent brushing are more likely to trigger specific allergies, and will necessitate more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The regularity of bathing, brushing, trimming, or other forms of coat maintenance necessary for a breed. It is important to factor in the time, patience and budget you have available for these grooming tasks. Additionally, it is important to note that all breeds require regular nail trimming.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The extent to which a breed is prone to drooling. If you have a preference for cleanliness, breeds that tend to leave trails of slobber on your arm or create large wet spots on your clothes may not be the most suitable choice for you.
COAT TYPE +
Double
COAT LENGTH +
Short

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The extent to which a breed is prone to drooling. If you have a preference for cleanliness, breeds that tend to leave trails of slobber on your arm or create large wet spots on your clothes may not be the most suitable choice for you.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm a breed typically displays towards play, even beyond the puppy stage. Certain breeds will continue to enjoy engaging in activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years, while others will be content to spend most of their time relaxing on the couch with you.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
The inclination of a breed to alert you of the presence of strangers. Such breeds are more likely to react to any potential threat whether it be the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. Additionally, these breeds are prone to warming up to strangers who enter their territory and are accepted by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to handle change. This encompasses their ability to adjust to changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather, daily routines and other variations in day-to-day life.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and willingness to learn exhibited by a breed. Certain breeds are motivated to make their owners proud and readily embrace new teachings, while others tend to prioritize their own desires and may be more resistant to training or learning new things.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The level of exercise and mental stimulation required by a breed. High-energy breeds are always ready and eager for their next adventure, spending their time running, jumping and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds are more inclined to be couch potatoes, content with lounging around and snoozing.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency at which a breed tends to vocalize, whether through barks or howls. Some breeds may bark at every passer-by or bird they notice while others only bark in specific situations. Additionally, some barkless breeds might still be vocal using other sounds to express themselves.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The level of mental stimulation that a breed requires to maintain a happy and healthy state. Certain purpose-bred dogs have jobs that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other mental qualities. Without adequate mental exercise, these dogs may create their own activities to keep their minds occupied, which may not align with the projects you would prefer. Providing appropriate mental stimulation is crucial to prevent boredom and potential destructive behaviors.

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PATTERNS +
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CARING WITH FAMILY Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a specific breed is inclined to display towards their family members or familiar individuals. Several breeds may appear distant and disinterested towards everyone except their owner whereas other breeds treat all acquaintances as their closest companions.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN Unwise Good With Children
The degree of patience and tolerance a breed exhibits towards children's behavior along with their overall family-friendly disposition. It is crucial to supervise dogs at all times when they are around young children or children of any age who have limited experience with dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The degree of patience and tolerance a breed exhibits towards children's behavior along with their overall family-friendly disposition. It is crucial to supervise dogs at all times when they are around young children or children of any age who have limited experience with dogs.
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere
The amount of fur and hair that a particular breed is prone to shedding. Breeds with high shedding tendencies will require more frequent brushing are more likely to trigger specific allergies, and will necessitate more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily
The regularity of bathing, brushing, trimming, or other forms of coat maintenance necessary for a breed. It is important to factor in the time, patience and budget you have available for these grooming tasks. Additionally, it is important to note that all breeds require regular nail trimming.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel
The extent to which a breed is prone to drooling. If you have a preference for cleanliness, breeds that tend to leave trails of slobber on your arm or create large wet spots on your clothes may not be the most suitable choice for you.
COAT STYLES GUIDE
Double
COAT SPECTRUM
Short
FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend
The extent to which a breed is prone to drooling. If you have a preference for cleanliness, breeds that tend to leave trails of slobber on your arm or create large wet spots on your clothes may not be the most suitable choice for you.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop
The level of enthusiasm a breed typically displays towards play, even beyond the puppy stage. Certain breeds will continue to enjoy engaging in activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years, while others will be content to spend most of their time relaxing on the couch with you.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant
The inclination of a breed to alert you of the presence of strangers. Such breeds are more likely to react to any potential threat whether it be the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. Additionally, these breeds are prone to warming up to strangers who enter their territory and are accepted by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable
The adaptability of a breed to handle change. This encompasses their ability to adjust to changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather, daily routines and other variations in day-to-day life.
OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please
The ease of training and willingness to learn exhibited by a breed. Certain breeds are motivated to make their owners proud and readily embrace new teachings, while others tend to prioritize their own desires and may be more resistant to training or learning new things.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy
The level of exercise and mental stimulation required by a breed. High-energy breeds are always ready and eager for their next adventure, spending their time running, jumping and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds are more inclined to be couch potatoes, content with lounging around and snoozing.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal
Likes To Be Vocal
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Happy to Lounge Needs a Job or Activity
The level of mental stimulation that a breed requires to maintain a happy and healthy state. Certain purpose-bred dogs have jobs that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other mental qualities. Without adequate mental exercise, these dogs may create their own activities to keep their minds occupied, which may not align with the projects you would prefer. Providing appropriate mental stimulation is crucial to prevent boredom and potential destructive behaviors.
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PATTERNS	.

About The Breed

The Lapponian Herder is a medium-sized dog with a manageable coat, making grooming relatively easy for experienced dog owners. They are versatile and adaptable, capable of problem-solving various tasks. This breed can comfortably fit into different living environments, provided they are given specific tasks or jobs to fulfill. They come in several color variations, including grey-brown, black (often with lighter undercoats) and white or tan markings.

Lapponian Herders are typically reserved with strangers but form strong bonds with their family members. They are independent yet fun-loving dogs with high intelligence and a generally eager-to-please nature. Being a herding breed with high energy levels they excel not only in herding but also in other dog sports and companion events. Their enthusiasm for hard work makes them ideal for competitive and enjoyable activities. Proper early socialization is important due to their herding instincts and they thrive when given tasks to focus on. It's worth noting that Lapponian Herders are quite vocal and tend to bark while working.

What to Expect When Caring for A Lapponian Herder

Owning a dog is indeed a significant responsibility that extends far beyond providing the basic necessities of food and shelter. Dogs as sentient beings require a comprehensive level of care that encompasses physical health emotional well-being, and mental stimulation.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Lapponian Herder: 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

	The Lapponian Herder is classified as a primitive breed and is known to have fewer consistent or prominent health complications compared to some other breeds. Throughout history, this breed has been kept healthy and well cared for. However, it's essential for potential owners to work with responsible breeders who can provide education regarding any specific health concerns within the breed. Responsible breeding practices and regular veterinary care can contribute to maintaining the overall health and well-being of the Lapponian Herder. Recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club: No recommended health tests

Grooming

	The Lapponian Herder possesses a thick double coat. It undergoes seasonal shedding of the undercoat, typically occurring once or twice a year during spring and fall. While the coat is smooth and does not easily tangle, occasional brushing and baths can contribute to its overall health keeping it shiny and free from parasites. Regular nail maintenance is necessary to prevent overgrowth, splitting and cracking. It is important to check the ears regularly and clean them as needed to prevent wax and debris buildup, which can lead to infections. Additionally, regular teeth brushing is recommended to maintain good oral hygiene.

Exercise

	The Lapponian Herder thrives when given a purpose or job to do such as herding (which is an inherent trait in this breed) or engaging in other forms of exercise, enrichment or training. They have a knack for excelling in various dog sports, including obedience, agility, rally, dock diving, nose work, barn hunt, search and rescue and conformation. Like many other breeds, Lapponian Herders can exhibit destructive behaviors if they do not receive adequate physical and mental stimulation. However, when provided with regular enrichment and opportunities to fulfill their instincts, they are known to be calm and wonderful companion dogs.

Training

	The Lapponian Herder is characterized as being docile, calm, friendly, energetic, and willing to serve. They are known to bark readily while working. While they have independent tendencies, they are also eager to please and enjoy having tasks or jobs to fulfill. Although they can exhibit reserved behavior with strangers, particularly females, they are generally friendly and become lovable pets once they become familiar with you and develop a bond.

Nutrition

	The Lapponian Herder can thrive on a high-quality dog food, whether it is commercially manufactured or prepared at home with the supervision and approval of a veterinarian. It is important to choose a diet that is suitable for the dog's specific age category, whether it is a puppy, adult or senior. Due to the breed's potential for weight gain, it is essential to monitor their calorie intake and maintain an appropriate weight level. Treats can be beneficial for training purposes, but overfeeding can lead to obesity, so it is necessary to moderate treat consumption.

Historiography

The Lapponian Herder has a long history of being used by the Sami people, also known as Lapps, for herding reindeer. This original purpose has earned the breed the nickname "the reindeer herder." The process of acceptance to the breed register began in the 1950s when the modern Finnish Lapphund and the Lapponian Herder were initially recognized as the same breed. However, it was later acknowledged that two distinct reindeer-herding breeds existed leading to the Lapponian Herder being separated into its own breed on October 12, 1966. Even today in various regions including its native land of Finland the breed continues to participate in herding and guarding reindeer. The Lapponian Herder was admitted to the Foundation Stock Service program in April 2017.