Finnish Lapponian Dog
OriginFinland
SizeMedium
Lifespan12–15 years
GroupSpitz & Primitive
Summary
The Finnish Lapponian Dog (also known as the Finnish Lapphund) is a herding and guarding dog originating from Finnish Lapland, where it was used for centuries by the Sami people to herd reindeer. It is the most registered dog breed in Finland today, reflecting its popularity as a companion dog. Its long and dense coat can be any color, with the base color always dominant.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Medium
- Height (male)
- 46–52 cm
- Height (female)
- 41–47 cm
- Weight (male)
- 15–19 kg
- Weight (female)
- 13–17 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Double; long and hard outer coat; soft and dense undercoat; forms an abundant collar in males
- Common Colors
- All colors; base color must be dominant; markings in a different color accepted on the head, neck, chest, legs, and tail
Temperament & Personality
The Finnish Lapponian Dog is intelligent, courageous, calm, and docile, with a friendly and loyal temperament. It is very receptive to training and has a highly developed alert instinct. It adapts well to family life and is excellent with children. It has a tendency to react to movement — a herding legacy — and may try to "herd" children and other animals.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- Moderate to high
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 60–90 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Moderate to high
- Shedding
- Heavy
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 4–6 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Epilepsy
- Hereditary cataracts
- Hip dysplasia
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Recommended Health Tests
- Eye examination
- Genetic test for PRA (_rod-cone dysplasia 1a_)
- Hip evaluation
Compatibility
- With Children
- Excellent
- With Other Dogs
- Excellent
- With Cats
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Recommended
