Finnish Lapphund

Table of Contents

Quick Facts

• Ancient herding and reindeer dogs from the far north of Finland, bred to work closely with people in harsh Arctic conditions
• Medium sized, fluffy, “smiling” spitz with expressive eyes and a striking mane-like ruff around the neck
• Typically friendly, social, and people orientated, yet watchful and quick to sound the alarm when something unusual happens
• Thick double coat that handles cold and snow extremely well, but sheds heavily, usually twice a year in large seasonal molts
• Intelligent, eager to learn, and well suited to active family life, dog sports, and outdoor adventures, provided they live as true companions indoors

Appearance & Coat

The Finnish Lapphund is a compact, medium sized spitz type dog that looks built for work in the snow. Adults usually stand around 41 to 52 centimeters at the shoulder, with males typically at the upper end of that range and females a little smaller and lighter. They should give an impression of strength without being heavy or clumsy. The body is slightly longer than the height at the withers, with a strong back and well muscled hindquarters that allow quick turns and agile movement. This makes sense when you remember they were developed as herding and reindeer dogs that had to sprint, dodge hooves, and change direction in an instant.

The head is one of the most charming features of the Finnish Lapphund. It has a clearly defined stop and a fairly broad skull that tapers gently towards the nose. The ears are usually medium sized, triangular, and carried erect or semi erect, which gives them a very alert expression. The eyes are oval and dark, set well apart, and often described as kind or gentle. Many people fall in love with the “smile” that seems to naturally appear on a Lapphund’s face when it is relaxed or happy.

The tail is well feathered and typically carried curled over the back when the dog is moving, but it can hang down when the dog is relaxed. The overall silhouette, with pointed ears, fluffy tail, and thick coat, is distinctly Nordic and similar to other spitz breeds, yet the Finnish Lapphund has a softer, more teddy bear like look.

Coat texture and quality are extremely important for this breed. The Finnish Lapphund has a double coat, with a dense, soft undercoat and a longer, harsher outer coat that repels moisture and snow. The fur is longer around the neck and chest, forming a noticeable ruff, especially on males. The backs of the legs and the tail are also richly feathered. Bitches often have a slightly lighter coat and less pronounced ruff, but should still look well covered and weatherproof.

One of the fascinating things about Finnish Lapphunds is the wide range of acceptable colors. You can find them in:

• Black, often with tan or cream markings
• Various shades of brown or liver
• Sable and wolf grey shades
• Cream, sable, or more dilute tones

They often have lighter markings on the face, chest, legs, and underside, sometimes forming mask like patterns or “spectacles” around the eyes. White is usually allowed as markings, but the dog should never appear predominantly white.

Coat care is manageable but does require commitment. The Finnish Lapphund does not need trimming, but it does need regular brushing. For most of the year, brushing two to three times a week is usually enough to keep matting under control and to remove dead hair, especially from behind the ears, in the armpits, and around the back of the thighs, where tangles form most easily. During seasonal shedding, which can be dramatic, daily brushing is often necessary. Using a slicker brush and a long toothed metal comb helps reach the undercoat. Many owners also find an undercoat rake helpful when the dog is “blowing coat.”

Bathing can be kept fairly infrequent, perhaps every couple of months or when the dog is genuinely dirty. The coat is naturally dirt repellent, and mud often dries and falls off after a walk. Too frequent shampooing can strip the coat of its natural oils, so a gentle dog shampoo should always be used. Regular checks of the ears, teeth, and nails are part of good maintenance. Nails should be trimmed regularly, as strong claws can grow quickly in a breed developed to work on snow and rough terrain.

Temperament & Personality

The Finnish Lapphund is known for its friendly, steady, and people centered nature. This is a dog that was bred to work in close cooperation with humans in isolated, demanding conditions. As a result, many Finnish Lapphunds are deeply attached to their families and thrive when they can be part of daily life rather than left alone for long periods. They usually form strong bonds with all members of the household, not just one person, and are often described as affectionate without being clingy.

Around the home, a typical Finnish Lapphund is lively, alert, and curious, but should not be hyperactive. Indoors, they often settle well after exercise and enjoy lying close to their people, watching what is going on. They are often sensitive to human moods and can be surprisingly intuitive, coming to sit by someone who is sad or ill. This sensitivity is part of what makes them such rewarding companions, but it also means they do not respond well to harsh treatment or chaotic environments.

With children, a well socialized Finnish Lapphund is usually patient, good natured, and playful. Many enjoy gentler games, learning tricks, and joining in family activities. Because they retain some of their herding instincts, some individuals may try to “round up” running children by circling or occasionally nipping at heels if overexcited. This is more common in youngsters and can be guided into more appropriate play with calm training and supervision. As with any breed, children should be taught to respect the dog’s space, and interactions should always be supervised, especially with very young kids.

The breed generally gets along well with other dogs, especially if introduced properly from puppyhood. They often enjoy canine company and may do well in multi dog households. Their social, cooperative background often means they are good at reading other dogs’ body language. However, like any herding or working breed, individual personalities vary. Some may be more reserved or picky about their playmates, particularly as they mature.

When it comes to other pets, such as cats or smaller animals, success depends largely on early socialization and individual prey drive. Many Finnish Lapphunds can live peacefully with cats they grow up with, and some become close companions. Small, fast moving animals can sometimes trigger chasing behavior. That is not surprising in a dog originally used to drive reindeer and respond to movement. Introducing them gradually, using secure barriers at first, and rewarding calm curiosity rather than chasing can help establish harmony in a mixed pet household.

One trait that prospective owners should be prepared for is the Lapphund’s inclination to bark. As a reindeer herder and farm watchdog, the Finnish Lapphund had to announce anything unusual and help move animals by using its voice. Modern Finnish Lapphunds often retain this habit. They are quick to sound the alarm at new sounds, visitors, or passing dogs, which can be useful but may become a nuisance if not managed. Training a reliable “quiet” cue, providing enough mental and physical exercise, and avoiding situations where the dog rehearses constant barking are all important.

The breed is often reserved with strangers at first, adopting a watchful, assessing attitude rather than rushing up immediately. With calm introductions, many soon warm up and enjoy gentle attention, although they are rarely as indiscriminately friendly as some companion breeds. This natural reserve contributes to their usefulness as watchdogs, but they should never be fearful or aggressive if well bred and properly socialized.

Emotionally, Finnish Lapphunds tend to be quite stable, but they do not like being isolated. Long hours alone every day, especially with little stimulation, can lead to frustration, boredom, and sometimes destructive behaviors or excessive barking. They do best in homes where someone is usually around or where arrangements can be made for company, such as dog walkers, daycare, or a second compatible dog.

Overall, the Finnish Lapphund is a warm hearted, people focused companion with a thoughtful, slightly serious streak. For families who enjoy spending time outdoors and including their dog in everyday life, their temperament can be almost ideal, as long as their need for company and mental stimulation is respected.

Training & Exercise

The Finnish Lapphund is an intelligent working breed that benefits from regular training and suitable exercise. These dogs were originally bred to move reindeer across long distances and respond quickly to a herder’s commands. This background has left them with a combination of quick thinking, problem solving ability, and the desire to cooperate with their person. When training is approached with kindness, clarity, and consistency, the Finnish Lapphund often learns very quickly and can be a pleasure to work with.

Positive reinforcement methods are particularly effective with this breed. Rewards such as small treats, toys, or enthusiastic praise help maintain their motivation. They do not respond well to harsh corrections, shouting, or physical punishment. Such methods tend to shut them down, increase anxiety, and damage the trust that is so important for a good working relationship. Many Finnish Lapphunds are quite sensitive to tone of voice and body language. A calm, confident approach, with clear guidance and firm but gentle limits, usually works best.

Basic obedience should start early. Teaching sit, down, stay, recall, and loose lead walking is essential, not just for good manners but also for safety. Because Finnish Lapphunds can be alert and distracted by birds, wildlife, or passing joggers, a strong recall cue, practiced in many different environments, is very important. Using a long line while training outdoors in open areas allows you to reinforce recall without risking the dog running off.

Mental stimulation is almost as important as physical exercise for this breed. They enjoy learning tricks, playing scent games, solving puzzle toys, and working for part of their daily food allowance in training sessions. Short, varied training sessions tend to be more effective than long, repetitive ones. For example, three sessions of five to ten minutes spread through the day are usually better than a single thirty minute session.

In terms of exercise, the Finnish Lapphund is active but not typically frantic or extreme. Most adults do well with around one to two hours of physical activity spread over the day, adjusted for age and individual energy levels. This might include:

• Two decent walks, one in the morning and one in the evening
• Opportunities to run off leash in safe, secure areas
• Playtime with other friendly dogs
• Retrieval games, tug, or structured play with toys

Although they are well adapted to cold climates and adore snow, they can live comfortably in milder regions as long as they are not overexerted in hot weather. In warm conditions, exercise should be scheduled for early mornings and late evenings, with plenty of fresh water and access to shade. Their thick coat means they can overheat more quickly than some short coated breeds.

Finnish Lapphunds are naturally agile and coordinated, which makes them excellent candidates for many dog sports. Activities such as agility, rally obedience, heelwork to music, tracking, search games, and even herding trials can all suit their abilities. Participating in these activities deepens the bond between dog and owner and channels their energy into something positive and structured.

One training challenge that owners may encounter is occasional independence. While the breed generally likes to cooperate, some individuals think for themselves and may test boundaries as adolescents. In these moments, patience and consistency are crucial. Reinforce desired behaviors, manage the environment to prevent rehearsal of unwanted behaviors, and keep training sessions engaging so the dog sees value in listening.

Barking control is another key aspect of training. Because Finnish Lapphunds are naturally inclined to bark, teaching cues like “speak” and “quiet” can be very useful. Reward the dog when it stops barking on command, and avoid unintentionally reinforcing barking by giving attention while the dog is noisy. Providing enough exercise, mental challenges, and company will also reduce boredom related barking.

Overall, when their need for activity and mental engagement is met, Finnish Lapphunds become well balanced, adaptable companions. They are not a breed that thrives as a backyard ornament or couch ornament only. They want to use their brains and bodies, and in return, they give a great deal of loyalty, enthusiasm, and joy in everyday life.

Health

The Finnish Lapphund is generally considered a healthy and robust breed, especially when bred responsibly and cared for properly. Their development as working dogs in tough northern conditions selected for resilience, good structure, and overall soundness. However, like all breeds, they are predisposed to certain health issues that prospective owners and breeders should be aware of.

Joint health is an important consideration. Hip dysplasia and, less commonly, elbow dysplasia can occur in the Finnish Lapphund. These are developmental conditions where the joints do not form correctly, which can lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis over time. Responsible breeders usually have their breeding dogs’ hips and elbows assessed through official scoring schemes and only breed from animals with satisfactory results. For owners, keeping the dog at a healthy weight and avoiding excessive jumping or high impact exercise during growth helps protect the joints.

Eye health is another focus area. Conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy, hereditary cataracts, and certain retinal disorders can appear in the breed. These can affect vision and may lead to partial or total blindness in severe cases. Many of these diseases have genetic components, so reputable breeders use eye examinations and, where available, DNA tests to reduce the risk. Puppies from such breeders typically come with documentation of the parents’ eye test results.

Some Finnish Lapphunds may be susceptible to autoimmune related conditions, thyroid issues, or allergies, although these are not as widespread as in some other breeds. Skin problems can sometimes appear, especially if the dog has underlying sensitivities or if the thick coat is not properly groomed and allowed to remain damp and dirty. Regular brushing, checking the skin, and maintaining a clean coat help spot and prevent minor issues before they become serious.

The typical lifespan of a Finnish Lapphund is around 12 to 14 years, and many live even longer with good care. To support a long and healthy life, several routine practices are recommended:

• Regular veterinary checkups, ideally at least once a year
• A balanced, high quality diet suited to the dog’s age, activity level, and any specific needs
• Weight management, as excess weight places stress on joints and organs
• Consistent parasite prevention, including worms, fleas, and ticks
• Dental care through brushing, dental chews, or other vet approved methods

For breeders, recommended health testing usually includes hip and elbow scoring, eye examinations by a specialist, and relevant genetic tests for known hereditary conditions in the breed. Serious breeders will also pay attention to temperament, structure, and overall vitality, not just test results, to ensure the long term health and stability of the Finnish Lapphund population.

Puppy buyers should feel comfortable asking breeders about health tests, longevity in the bloodlines, and any known health concerns. A responsible breeder will welcome these questions and be honest about both strengths and weaknesses. They will often provide a written health guarantee and commit to taking back a dog if serious problems arise.

For owners, daily care habits have a big impact on health. Regular exercise that suits the individual dog, combined with mental stimulation, supports heart health and emotional wellbeing. Monitoring your dog for subtle changes in behavior, appetite, mobility, or coat condition allows you to spot early signs of illness. Finnish Lapphunds can be quite stoic, so they may not show obvious pain until an issue is advanced, which makes attentiveness important.

While health concerns exist, as they do with every breed, the Finnish Lapphund’s overall reputation is that of a sturdy, long lived companion. Thoughtful breeding, responsible ownership, and proactive veterinary care work together to give these dogs an excellent chance of enjoying a full and active life well into their senior years.

History & Origins

The Finnish Lapphund has a long and fascinating history that is closely tied to the indigenous Sámi people of northern Fennoscandia, an area that includes parts of modern Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Russia. For centuries, these dogs worked alongside humans in one of the toughest environments in Europe, the Arctic and sub Arctic regions, where winters are long, dark, and extremely cold.

Originally, the ancestors of the Finnish Lapphund were multi purpose camp and herding dogs used by the Sámi to manage their semi wild reindeer herds. Their tasks included driving reindeer, gathering scattered animals, and helping to move the herd to new grazing grounds. To do this successfully, the dogs needed to be agile, intelligent, and able to withstand bitter cold, deep snow, and long days of work. They also had to be gentle and careful around the reindeer, using more circling and barking than direct physical contact.

The close relationship between Sámi families and their dogs shaped the breed’s temperament. These were not distant working animals kept only in fields. They lived close to people in and around camps, offering warmth, companionship, and early warning of predators or strangers. This close interaction encouraged cooperation and a strong human focus, traits that remain very clear in the modern Finnish Lapphund.

The story of the Finnish Lapphund as a recognized breed began in the 20th century. As modern transportation and changing lifestyles started to alter traditional reindeer herding practices, the number of these working dogs declined. Concerned dog enthusiasts and breeders in Finland started to take an interest in preserving the native Lappish dogs, both as part of cultural heritage and as a valuable dog type in their own right.

Early efforts to record and standardize the breed took place in the mid 1900s. Initially, various Lappish dogs were grouped together in kennel club registries. Over time, as more attention was paid to differences in type and function, separate breeds such as the Finnish Lapphund, Lapponian Herder, and Swedish Lapphund were distinguished. The Finnish Kennel Club played a central role in development and formal recognition, and a breed standard was created that described the ideal Finnish Lapphund in terms of appearance, temperament, and structure.

Selective breeding then began to stabilize the characteristics that we now associate with the Finnish Lapphund. The aim was to preserve the hardy, weather resistant, and cooperative working dog while also producing a reliable, family friendly companion. Careful attention was paid to maintaining the thick double coat, the expressive head, and the balanced, agile body that allowed these dogs to move confidently over snow and uneven ground.

Over the latter half of the 20th century, the breed gradually moved from being primarily a herding dog to a versatile companion and sport dog. While some Finnish Lapphunds still take part in reindeer work in northern regions, most today live as family pets and participate in activities such as obedience, agility, rally, tracking, and search games. Their calm, friendly nature and striking looks have also helped them gain popularity in many countries outside Finland.

In their homeland, the Finnish Lapphund is considered one of the national dog breeds and is valued as part of cultural identity. Breed clubs and enthusiasts work to promote responsible breeding, educate owners, and maintain the breed’s working instincts and natural character. Internationally, the Finnish Lapphund remains a relatively uncommon breed compared to some, but its reputation for being a cheerful, reliable, and attractive companion is steadily spreading.

Understanding this history helps explain many aspects of the modern dog. The strong bonds with people, the tendency to bark to communicate, the thick protective coat, and the agile, sturdy build all come directly from centuries of partnership with Sámi herders in the far north. When you share your home with a Finnish Lapphund, you are living with a piece of living history that still carries the spirit of the Arctic tundra in its heart.

Living with the Breed

Living with a Finnish Lapphund is, for many people, a joyful and deeply rewarding experience, but it does require commitment, time, and thoughtful planning. This is not a breed that is content with being left alone in the garden or confined to a kennel. They thrive on companionship, involvement in family life, and regular opportunities to use both mind and body.

New owners should be prepared for an intelligent, observant dog that notices everything. A Finnish Lapphund will quickly learn the household routine, from the sound of the fridge door to the rustle of car keys. They often like to follow their people from room to room and lie where they can keep an eye on everyone. If you are looking for a dog that sits quietly in a corner and rarely interacts, this is probably not the right breed.

In terms of daily schedule, expect to provide at least one to two hours of combined physical and mental activity. This might mean a long morning walk with some training games, a shorter evening walk, and a few short sessions of trick training, scent work, or play in the garden. They are adaptable and can live in houses or apartments, provided their exercise and mental needs are met, and they have regular access to safe outdoor spaces.

One of the practical realities of living with a Finnish Lapphund is hair. The thick double coat sheds lightly throughout the year and very heavily during shedding seasons. Owners should be comfortable with regular grooming and with fur on clothes, floors, and furniture. Investing in a good vacuum cleaner, lint rollers, and a quality grooming kit is wise. Some owners find that a dog friendly throw on sofas and washable rugs make life easier.

Financially, the annual costs of keeping a Finnish Lapphund will depend on your region and lifestyle, but it is helpful to budget for:

• Quality food appropriate for a medium sized, active dog
• Routine veterinary care and vaccinations
• Regular parasite prevention
• Grooming tools and occasional professional grooming if desired
• Pet insurance, which can help with unexpected vet bills
• Training classes, dog sports, or daycare if you choose to use them
• Equipment such as leads, collars or harnesses, beds, and safe toys

When it comes to equipment, a well fitting harness, a sturdy lead, and a secure collar with identification are essential basics. Many owners also use a long training line for recall practice and for giving the dog more freedom in open spaces while staying safe. Because Finnish Lapphunds are quite bright, puzzle feeders, Kongs, snuffle mats, and interactive toys are very useful for providing mental enrichment, especially during bad weather days.

Socialization is a key part of living happily with this breed. Puppies should be introduced gradually to a wide range of people, environments, sounds, and other animals in a calm, positive way. This helps prevent excessive shyness or nervousness later on. Adult dogs also benefit from ongoing social contact and new experiences. Regular walks in different locations, meeting friends and their dogs, and visits to dog friendly places all help keep the Finnish Lapphund mentally flexible and confident.

Because of their tendency to bark, it is important to consider your living situation. In a detached house with understanding neighbors, occasional barking may not be an issue. In an apartment or terrace house with thin walls, more careful management and training will be needed. Teaching the dog when it is appropriate to sound the alarm and when it is time to be quiet is a responsibility that owners should take seriously.

Finnish Lapphunds usually cope well with cold weather and often enjoy snow, sometimes to a comical extent, rolling, digging, and playing until they are covered in frost. Hot weather is more challenging for them. Owners should provide cool, shaded resting spots, avoid midday walks in summer, and consider cooling mats or vests if temperatures are very high. Always make fresh water available and watch carefully for any signs of overheating.

Emotionally, these dogs often form deep attachments to their families and can be affected by major changes or prolonged absences. If you work long hours, think ahead about how you will provide company and care. Some solutions include flexible work arrangements, dog walkers, regular daycare, or a trusted friend or family member who can visit. A second dog can sometimes help, but it is not a complete substitute for human interaction.

For people who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, running on soft surfaces, or long country walks, the Finnish Lapphund can be an excellent partner. They usually love being involved, whether it is accompanying children on forest adventures, joining in gentle jogging once mature, or just exploring new paths. At home, they often like being near the heart of the household, whether that is the kitchen, the living room, or a home office.

Ultimately, living with a Finnish Lapphund means sharing your life with a bright, sociable, and kind dog that still carries the working spirit of the north. They repay the time and effort you invest with loyalty, humor, and a strong sense of partnership. For owners who understand and value these qualities, the Finnish Lapphund is not just a pet, but a true friend and family member for many years.

Characteristics

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of temperament does a Finnish Lapphund have with families and children?

This breed is typically gentle, friendly, and people oriented, with a strong tendency to bond closely with its family. They are usually very good with respectful children and often tolerant of noise and activity, but their herding background can lead to occasional nipping or circling that should be managed with training.

How much exercise does a Finnish Lapphund really need each day?

They are an active, working-bred dog that generally needs at least 60 to 90 minutes of physical activity daily, plus some mental stimulation. Most are happy with brisk walks, play, and training games rather than intense running, although some enjoy dog sports like agility or herding.

Do Finnish Lapphunds handle hot weather well with their thick coat?

They are designed for cold climates and typically do not tolerate heat or humidity very well. In warmer weather they should be kept in cool environments, exercised during cooler parts of the day, and always given access to shade and fresh water to prevent overheating.

How much grooming and shedding should I expect from a Finnish Lapphund?

They have a dense double coat that sheds moderately most of the year and heavily during seasonal coat blows. Weekly brushing is usually enough in normal times, but during shedding seasons more frequent grooming is needed to remove dead undercoat and prevent matting.

Are Finnish Lapphunds good apartment dogs or do they need a yard?

They can adapt to apartment living if their exercise and mental needs are met reliably every day. A secure yard is helpful but not essential; what matters most is daily movement, training, and companionship, since they do not thrive if left alone and bored for long periods.

What health problems are Finnish Lapphunds prone to?

Overall they are considered a relatively healthy breed, but they can be at risk for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and certain inherited eye conditions such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. Responsible breeders typically screen their dogs for joint and eye issues to reduce these risks.

Are Finnish Lapphunds very vocal, and is barking a common issue?

They are naturally alert and were historically used to work with reindeer, which often involved using their voices. Many individuals are inclined to bark at new sounds or changes around the home, so early training and consistent rules about barking are important if you live in close quarters with neighbors.

Do Finnish Lapphunds get along well with other dogs and pets?

They are generally sociable with other dogs and often enjoy canine company, especially if they are well socialized from a young age. Most can live peacefully with other pets, although some may show gentle herding behavior that needs to be guided so it does not become bothersome.

How trainable is a Finnish Lapphund for first-time dog owners?

They are intelligent, eager to please, and usually respond well to positive, reward-based training methods. However, they can have an independent streak and may test boundaries, so consistency and patience are important, particularly for owners who are new to training active herding-type dogs.

What kind of home environment suits a Finnish Lapphund best?

They do best in homes where they can be close to their people, have regular outdoor activity, and experience daily interaction and mental engagement. A moderately active household that enjoys training, walking, and spending time outdoors tends to suit them better than a very sedentary or frequently absent lifestyle.

Sources

• The Finnish Lapphund Club Of Great Britain
• The Kennel Club (UK)
• Suomen Kennelliitto (The Finnish Kennel Club)
• Verein für Finnische Lapphunde Deutschland e.V.