Swedish Lapphund

Lappie, Suomenlapinkoira
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Swedish Lapphund is a medium-sized herding breed originating from Sweden, known for its intelligence, loyalty, and friendly nature. They have a distinctive double coat and require regular exercise and grooming.

Origin and Purpose

  • Developed in Sweden, used for herding reindeer and as watchdogs, now also a family pet.

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female40-46 cm (16-18 in)19-20 kg (42-44 lbs)
Male45-51 cm (18-20 in)20-21 kg (44-46 lbs)

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Black, brown, or bear-brown; often with white markings on chest, paws, and tail tip.
Type
  • Double coat with a dense, soft undercoat and a long, coarse outer coat.
Length
  • Medium to long

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Moderate to heavy
Grooming
  • Regular brushing required
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Relatively small, wedge-shaped
Skull
  • Slightly domed
Ears
  • Erect, triangular, mobile
Eyes
  • Round or oval, dark brown
Nose
  • Black
Muzzle
  • Well-developed, strong
Teeth
  • Scissor bite
Neck
  • Medium length, muscular
Forequarters
  • Strong, muscular
Fore Legs
  • Straight, parallel
Hindquarters
  • Strong, well-muscled
Hind Legs
  • Straight, parallel
Feet
  • Oval, compact
Tail
  • Medium length, carried curved over the back or on the side
Gait
  • Light, nimble, balanced

Temperament

  • Intelligent, loyal, eager to please, and friendly.

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • Highly affectionate
Good with Children
  • Good
Good with Dogs
  • Good
Good with Cats
  • Generally good
Openness to Strangers
  • Reserved but not aggressive
Playfulness Level
  • High
Protective Nature
  • Moderate
Adaptability Level
  • Adaptable

Working Roles

  • Herding reindeer, watchdog

Exercise Needs

  • Moderate

Health

  • Generally healthy, but may have some health concerns, including hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy and primary lens luxation

Additional Notes

  • Needs early socialization and training. Bred to be a working dog, they are happiest with a job to do.

References