Dog breed · Herding / Pastoral
Finnish Lapphund
The Sámi people's reindeer herder — a friendly, fluffy spitz that combines working sense with an unusually soft, family-oriented nature.
Medium12–14 yearsFinnish LaplandCan suit apartments
Representative breed photography. Appearance varies within every breed.
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Herding / Pastoral
- Origin
- Finnish Lapland
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 15–24 kg
- Height
- 41–52 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Profuse, weatherproof double coat in many colours
- Temperament
- GentleFriendlyWatchfulBiddable
History
Herded reindeer for the Sámi for centuries; standardised in Finland in the 20th century.
Appearance
Medium, bear-like spitz with a smiling face, pricked ears, plumed tail and a glorious mane.
Exercise and activity
An hour or more daily; enjoys herding, canicross and sledding sports.
Care and grooming
Weekly brushing, daily during coat blow; the coat is self-cleaning once dry.
Health considerations
- Generally healthy
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Hip dysplasia
- Pompe disease (tested)