Character

The Lapphund is intelligent, independent, humble and co-operative. As a proof of his intelligence, a Lapphund thinks before going into action. He is a quick learner. He likes to watch his family's life from aside, treating the family as a reindeer herd, a flock to be tended. Being a humble herder, he will do everything for you upon encouragement. He is easy to train, a most suitable companion for dog sports, and also weatherproof.

A Lapphund dog differs from a bitch both in appearance and in character. A bitch is smaller and more submissive. The breed easily adapts to different circumstances, and can be kept in an apartment building.

Appearance

For a hundred years, the appearance of the Lapphund has remained the same. He is a genuine arctic spitz with long, straight and coarse coat, and a thick undercoat. The dog has an impressive collar of hair. The expression is soft and humble with an individual look. The ears are prick, or have folded tips.

All colours are allowed as long as the primary colour is dominant. A Lapphund specialty is a black dog with "eye-glasses".

The sexual distinctions between a dog and a bitch are clear. The sexes must be easily distinguished from one another. The dog and bitch stand 49 and 44 cm at the withers (3 cm less or more is allowed) respectively.

Health and Care

The Lapphund is one of the healthiest breeds in Finland. Lapphund often reach the age of 13 to 15. A small percentage of the Lapphund have PRA or HC, and very few hip dysplasia cases are found. The Lapphund belongs to PEVISA (the program against inheritable diseases), which requires examination of the breeding stock before the puppies can be registered.