The Lapinkoïra breed
Lapinkoïra
Finnish Lapphund: the Lappish herder of Finland
The Finnish Lapphund (Suomenlapinkoira) is a Nordic herding dog from Finnish Lapland, traditionally used by the Sami to herd reindeer. Sturdy, cheerful and sociable, it adapts wonderfully to family life today.
Origins of the Finnish Lapphund
Ancestral dog of the Sami people of Lapland, used for centuries to guard and herd reindeer. Standardised in Finland in 1945. FCI number 189.
Temperament and character
Key traits:
- Cheerful and friendly
- Highly intelligent
- Strong family attachment
- Natural vigilance (typical barking Nordic herder)
Sociable, playful and cold-resistant.
Training and socialisation
Intelligent and cooperative, easy to train with kindness and consistency. Barking tendency to channel early.
Health and grooming
Very healthy overall, some predispositions:
- Hip dysplasia
- Hereditary eye disorders (PRA)
- Heat sensitivity
Brush the dense long double coat twice a week, more during shedding.
The Finnish Lapphund in the family
Ideal for active families, ideally in temperate or cold climates. Excellent with children. Sociable with other dogs. Not for very hot climates.
đ In short
Cheerful, sturdy and friendly, the Finnish Lapphund is a Nordic herder-companion ideal for active families.