Finnish Lapphund
Finnish Lapphund
Temperament: Friendly, Alert, Agile
Group: Herding Group
Height: 40.6–53.3 in
Weight: 15.0–24.0 lb
Life Expectancy: 12.0–15.0 yrs
Energy Level: Regular Exercise
Trainability: Eager to Please
Shedding: Seasonal
Grooming Frequency: Weekly Brushing
Finnish Lapphunds, with their luscious coat, sweet spitz-like face, and profusely coated tail that curves over the back, are instantly recognizable as Nordic dogs. Lappies stand about 20 inches at the shoulder and are surprisingly muscular and substantial for their inches. Quick and agile, they move effortlessly and can go from a trot to a full gallop in a second flat.Lappies are friendly and submissive companions, though a bit wary of strangers. They crave companionship and will be miserable when neglected. A distinctive breed trait is a strong “startle reflex,” the result of centuries spent ducking the antlers of ornery reindeer. Despite their propensity for shedding and barking, Lappies are popular pets in their homeland. The weatherproof Finnish Lapphund is a tough and substantial reindeer herder from north of the Arctic Circle. This remarkably empathetic breed is among the friendliest of all dogs—once he’s satisfied that you aren’t a reindeer rustler.