Group 5: Working dogs
Height:
Male: 45 – 51 cm
Female: 40 – 46 cm
Energy Level: Moderate – high
Original Function: Herding
Lifespan: 9 – 15 years (average 12-13 years)
Recommended for: Active people & families.
Note: Not many in Australia.
The Swedish Lapphund was used in the past for reindeer herding by the nomadic Laplanders for centuries. They are mostly used today as a companion dog although in some, the herding instinct is still very strong. The breed is not common outside Sweden.
In general a friendly, outgoing and devoted dog. They are protective of their homes. They make good family pets and like to be included in all family activities. However if left alone can be very vocal, destructive and are known to enjoy digging.
They are very tolerant of children. They can be independent but make a loyal companion.
Appearance: Typical Spitz dog of slightly less than medium size and with a proud head carriage. Its coat is weather resistant.
Temperament: Lively, alert, kind and affectionate, very receptive and willing to work. Good guard and herding dog. Suitable for obedience training, agility, herding, tracking, etc. It is easy to train, full of endurance and toughness.
Colour: Usually solid black: bronzing is typical. Also brown or liver. White on the chest, feet and tip of the tail is permissible but more white is undesirable.
Coat: Profuse double coat. Hair standing straight out from the body, undercoat dense and very finely curled. Short on head and front of the legs. Longer on the brisket, backside of the legs and on the tail. Bushy, long and dense on the tail.
Grooming: A daily brush is essential to maintain a shiny coat. This breed has a double coat and the undercoat is shed twice a year. The coat appears semi waterproof and as such dirt will brush off when the coat is dry. The Swedish Lapphund has a lovely shiny coat and when groomed regularly.
Exercise: A reasonable amount of exercise, but not necessarily through hours of walking. Not a dog to be let off the lead unless you have trained your dog and have total control. Their natural herding instinct makes them chase.
Health: