Finnish Lapphund
The Finnish Lapphund, also known as theSuomenlapinkoira, the Lapinkoira, or the Lapland Dog, originates from as early as the 1600's in Finland. There are three varieties of Lapphund: the Finnish Lapphund, the Laponian Herder, and the Swedish Lapphund. Their ancient forbears were herding spitzes that were kept thousands of years ago by nomadic tribes across Scandinavia, themselves the forbears of the Laplanders. It is believed that the Finnish Lapphund traces some of its roots to the Samoyed. The dogs' main function in the last few centuries was that of a herder of reindeer for the Lapp people, although most frequently this task fell to the smooth-coated variety of Lapphund, the Laponian Herder. The Finnish Lapphund is a hardy dog that is capable or working in the very harsh climates of Northern Scandinavia and Russia. Through selective breeding, the dog's natural herding instincts are maintained. It is rarely found outside of Scandinavia and Russia.
Height: 18 - 20.5" (45.7 - 45.7cm) for dogs, 16 - 18.5" (40.6 - 40.6cm) for bitches
Weight: 44 - 47 lbs (19.6 - 21 kg)
Coat Type: The double coat is thick: the outer coat being on the long side and coarse, the undercoat being fluffy, thus requiring regular combing and brushing. The color seen most frequently is black or liver-colored dogs, but all colors are permissible as long as there is one dominant color; there may be very light tan markings on the face, chest, legs, and tip of tail.
Temperament: The Finnish Lapphund is an intelligent dog that responds well to its owners. It enjoys family life, and is calm and loyal. It makes both a good companion to the family, as well as a watchdog that will alert when strangers approach.
Special Interest: The Finnish Lapphund drove the herds of reindeer by barking; it may therefore not be well-adapted to city living where it is expected to be quiet.
Classifications:
AKC: Not recognized
CKC: Not recognized
KC: Non-Sporting - Working Group
FCI: Group 5
ANKC: Group 5 - Working Dogs
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