Finnish Lapphund Breed Guide: Characteristics & Care for Prospective Owners
Finnish Lapphund Breed Guide: Characteristics & Care for Prospective Owners
Are you considering a Finnish Lapphund as your next companion? This intelligent, gentle, adaptable breed can be a dream for active families, but it is a big decision. Use this guide to understand traits, care needs, and lifestyle fit so you can welcome a Lappy with confidence.
For day-to-day routines, read our companion article, the Finnish Lapphund Care Guide.
1. Origins and Heritage of the Finnish Lapphund
The Finnish Lapphund originates with the Sami people across Lapland in Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Russia. Early dogs guarded and hunted, later shifting into reindeer herding partners as the Sami focused on pastoral work. Breed preservation efforts began in the 1940s, and in 1967 the long-coated Finnish Lapphund and short-coated Lapponian Herder were recognized as separate breeds.
Learn more through the Finnish Lapphund Club of America.
2. Coat Colors and Unique Appearance
Common colours include black, brown, cream, wolf sable, and tricolour with tan and white markings. The dense undercoat and weather-resistant outer coat suit cold climates and shed seasonally. Weekly brushing and extra care during coat blow keep the coat healthy.
3. Adaptability
Height averages 16 to 21 inches and weight 33 to 53 pounds. Lappies are adaptable but do best with space and regular outdoor access.
- Apartment living: Challenging due to exercise needs and vocal nature. It can work with significant daily effort.
- Homes with yards: A secure yard is ideal for supervised play. Plan regular walks and hikes too.
- Travel friendly: Calm and adaptable on road trips and camping with their family.
4. Temperament
Friendly, affectionate, intelligent, and naturally alert. With socialization they make steady companions and reliable watchdogs.
- With children: Gentle and playful. Teach respectful handling and supervise young kids.
- With other pets: Usually compatible with careful introductions. Herding instincts may trigger chasing, so manage interactions.
5. Quick Reference Chart: Breed Traits
| Trait | Level |
|---|---|
| Affection Level | High |
| Friendliness | High |
| Kid Friendly | High |
| Pet Friendly | Medium |
| Exercise Needs | Medium |
| Playfulness | Medium |
| Energy Level | Medium |
| Trainability | High |
| Intelligence | High |
| Tendency to Bark | High |
| Amount of Shedding | High |
6. Activity Levels
Plan for 1 to 2 hours of exercise daily, tailored to the dog. Hiking, jogging, and agility are great outlets.
- Outdoor adventures: Ideal for trails and winter fun. Use a leash since herding instincts can kick in.
- Indoor play: Rotate fetch, scent games, puzzle toys, or hide and seek to burn mental energy.
7. Training
Highly intelligent and responsive to positive reinforcement. Keep sessions short and fun.
- Start early: Puppy classes at 8 weeks help socialization and manners.
- Positive methods: Use food, toys, and praise with consistent structure.
- Safe spaces: If you prefer not to crate, set up a puppy proofed zone with bedding, toys, and potty area to reduce stress and protect your home.
8. Grooming
The thick double coat is weather resistant. Brush weekly, daily during spring and fall, and bathe every 6 to 8 months with a mild shampoo.
- Weekly brushing: Slicker brush and metal comb prevent tangles, especially behind ears and under legs.
- Seasonal care: Use an undercoat rake during coat blow.
- Bathing: Rinse thoroughly to preserve natural oils.
9. Health and Lifespan
Average lifespan is 12 to 15 years. The breed is generally healthy with a few conditions to monitor.
- Hip dysplasia
- Cataracts and other eye conditions
- Epilepsy
- Hypothyroidism
- Addison’s disease
Routine care: Regular vet visits, a balanced diet, weight control, and dental care support longevity.
10. Finding Your Finnish Lapphund
Choose reputable sources to set your dog up for success.
- Health clearances: Ask about hips and eyes.
- Visit breeders: Meet parents and see living conditions.
- Rescue options: Check breed clubs and regional rescues.
- Expect waitlists: Ethical programs match puppies to homes.
11. Cost of Ownership
Plan for initial costs of 1,000 to 2,500 USD and ongoing monthly expenses.
- Initial: Vaccines, spay or neuter, basic supplies.
- Monthly: Quality food, grooming tools, treats, routine care.
- Annual: Wellness checks, preventives, insurance.
- Emergency fund: Set aside for unexpected bills.
- Training: Group classes or one-on-one support.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Finnish Lapphund
Do Finnish Lapphunds bark a lot?
Yes. Training and daily exercise help manage it.
Are they suitable for apartments?
Challenging but possible with serious commitment to exercise and mental work.
Is a Lapphund good for first-time owners?
Yes for dedicated owners who can commit to exercise, training, and grooming.
How do they handle alone time?
They prefer company. Build independence slowly and provide enrichment.
Do they shed heavily?
Yes. Expect daily brushing during seasonal coat blow.
Conclusion: Is the Finnish Lapphund Right for You?
For active homes that value partnership and outdoor time, the Finnish Lapphund is a loving, lively companion. Explore breed-proud gear like Wild Lappy Tumblers and Lappy Style Tees, and keep learning in the Lapphund Lovers Corner.
Share Your Finnish Lapphund Experiences
Owners, share tips to help future families. Thinking about the breed? Ask questions below and the community will help.
Join the conversation in the comments.
29 comments
Outstanding!
Wonderful work!
**
“Have you ever considered the ethical implications of keeping Finnish Lapphunds as pets, given their historical role as reindeer herders? How do we balance their instinctual needs with our desire for companionship?
Exceptional!