The Swedish Lapphund, fondly referred to as the Lappie, is one of the oldest types of Swedish breeds that still exists today. These dogs were developed by the nomadic Sami people of Lappland for hunting and guarding purposes. After some time, the dogs were also used to herd and guard the Sami's reindeer. In 1903, the Swedish Kennel Club recognized the Swedish Lapphund as a distinct breed, and the first Lappie to be registered with the club was a dog named Halli. The Federation Cynologique Internationale recognized the breed in 1944; however, the United Kennel Club did not recognize the Lappie until 2006. Today, the Swedish Lapphund is Sweden's national dog.
The Swedish Lapphund is a medium-sized Spitz-type breed from Sweden. Like most spitz-breeds, the Lapphund has a thick double coat, small erect ears, a wedge-shaped head and a thick, furry tail that curls over its back. The coat needs to be brushed regularly to prevent excessive shedding and to get rid of dead hair. These medium-sized dogs can weigh anywhere from 41 to 47 pounds fully grown. They are a Spitz-type breed with a luxurious double coat that can come in black, brown or black and brown. They have triangular prick ears and a profusely feathered tail that curls up and over the back.
Personality
The Swedish Lapphund is an outgoing, lively and happy dog. Lapphunds are affectionate and are good with active kids who like to play tirelessly. The Lapphund needs a lot of physical and mental exercise and enjoys playing vigorous games like Frisbee or Fetch. They tend to be reserved with people they don't know, but are friendly towards other dogs. Lappies are extremely loving and do best when they live indoors with their human family members. They are also very active and playful requiring plenty of exercise and a large yard. Due to their strong herding instincts and gentle nature, Swedish Lapphunds make excellent family dogs. The Swedish Lapphund is a multi-talented dog that performs well in many different areas including hunting, guarding and herding. However, due to its friendly and sweet disposition, it also makes a wonderful pet for families that have children and/or other animals.
Breed Characteristics
| Life Span: | 12 - 14 years |
| Nicknames: | The Lappie, The Black Beauty of Norrland, Swedish Lapphund |
Swedish Lapphund Build Information
The Swedish Lapphund is a medium-sized Spitz-type breed from Sweden. Like most spitz-breeds, the Lapphund has a thick double coat, small erect ears, a wedge-shaped head and a thick, furry tail that curls over its back. The coat needs to be brushed regularly to prevent excessive shedding and to get rid of dead hair. These medium-sized dogs can weigh anywhere from 41 to 47 pounds fully grown. They are a Spitz-type breed with a luxurious double coat that can come in black, brown or black and brown. They have triangular prick ears and a profusely feathered tail that curls up and over the back.
| Size: | Medium |
Behaviour and Personality
The Swedish Lapphund is an outgoing, lively and happy dog. Lapphunds are affectionate and are good with active kids who like to play tirelessly. The Lapphund needs a lot of physical and mental exercise and enjoys playing vigorous games like Frisbee or Fetch. They tend to be reserved with people they don't know, but are friendly towards other dogs. Lappies are extremely loving and do best when they live indoors with their human family members. They are also very active and playful requiring plenty of exercise and a large yard. Due to their strong herding instincts and gentle nature, Swedish Lapphunds make excellent family dogs. The Swedish Lapphund is a multi-talented dog that performs well in many different areas including hunting, guarding and herding. However, due to its friendly and sweet disposition, it also makes a wonderful pet for families that have children and/or other animals.
| Activity Level: | Very Active |
| Affection Level: | Very Affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Very Friendly |
Appearance
Due to the Lappie's thick luxurious coat, you will want to brush it at least every other day to prevent any mats from developing. However, during shedding season, it is a good idea to brush its coat daily. Check the nails regularly and trim them with a pliers-type clipper when necessary. A bath about twice a month should be sufficient unless your pet becomes particularly dirty.
| Shedding: | Heavy |
| Grooming: | Medium Maintenance |
Swedish Lapphund Common Health Conditions
Most all dogs are prone to some type of health problem, and the Swedish Lapphund is no different. While most of these dogs are quite hardy and can live as long as nine to 12 years, some have been known to develop such health issues as progressive retinal atrophy, diabetes and hip dysplasia.
Swedish Lapphund Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
The Swedish Lapphund is also known as the Black Beauty of Norrland. Swedish Lapphunds can serve many purposes including herding, hunting, obedience trials, agility, search and rescue, and tracking. It is believed that the Lappie is closely related to the Arctic wolf. The Swedish Lapphund is a Spitz-type dog breed that came from Sweden and was originally used to herd and guard reindeer. This is one of three Lapphund breeds developed by the Sami people. These are considered rare dogs, and there are only about 1,400 Swedish Lapphunds in existence today.
| Training: | Moderately Easy |