Finnish Lapphund
Is a Finnish Lapphund Right For You?
Answer these quick questions to find out:
Do you need a dog that’s comfortable living in an apartment?
Will the dog need to thrive in small living spaces?
Will the dog need to stay alone at home for long hours?
Are you looking for a dog suited for urban life?
Do you live in a hot climate?
Breed Characteristics
How much exercise does Finnish Lapphund need?
How much grooming does Finnish Lapphund need?
Is Finnish Lapphund easy to train?
How intelligent is Finnish Lapphund?
Does Finnish Lapphund bark a lot?
Is Finnish Lapphund stubborn or independent?
How much playtime does a Finnish Lapphund need daily?
Can Finnish Lapphund stay indoors with limited walks?
Is Finnish Lapphund protective or territorial?
Is Finnish Lapphund affectionate with family?
Health Wellness
Is Finnish Lapphund prone to allergies?
Finnish Lapphunds are prone to allergies, more so than many other dog breeds, with nutrition being a contributing factor. They are heavy shedders and not considered hypoallergenic, making them a poor choice for individuals with allergies. The breed's thick double coat sheds seasonally and may produce a significant amount of allergens. Additionally, Finnish Lapphunds are known to be vocal. Allergies in Finnish Lapphunds can manifest as skin issues and may be triggered by various factors such as fleas, food allergies, and environmental allergens. It is important to pay special attention to grooming, especially in areas prone to matting.
Is Finnish Lapphund a hypoallergenic breed?
The Finnish Lapphund is not a hypoallergenic breed, as they are heavy shedders and can irritate people with dog allergies. They have a dense and fluffy double coat, shedding heavily seasonally. This breed is known to be vocal and alert, making them good guard dogs but may require training to live harmoniously with other pets and children. Finnish Lapphunds are generally healthy dogs but are prone to conditions like elbow and hip dysplasia. Originating from Finland, they are friendly, outgoing, and were originally bred to herd reindeer. While they are not commonly found in the United States, they are considered a rare breed. Despite their shedding, Finnish Lapphunds are relatively low-maintenance in terms of bathing due to their naturally dirt-resistant coat.
What are common health issues in Finnish Lapphund?
The Finnish Lapphund is generally a healthy breed with a lifespan of 10-15 years. However, they are prone to a few health issues, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy. These conditions can be detected through X-rays and may lead to vision loss. Additionally, some Finnish Lapphunds may develop eye disorders such as prcd-PRA and metabolic disorders like Pompes, though these occurrences are relatively rare. Other potential health concerns for this breed include sensitivity to certain medications, gastrointestinal issues like colitis, epilepsy, Cushing's disease, autoimmune conditions, early mortality, and degenerative myelopathy. Overall, while Finnish Lapphunds are robust dogs, it is important for owners to be aware of these potential health issues and provide proper care and monitoring for their pets.
How often should a Finnish Lapphund visit the vet?
Finnish Lapphunds require regular vet visits, especially as puppies for monitoring development, vaccinations, and spaying/neutering. Once they reach around 1 year old, they should have yearly checkups to keep vaccines up to date. Routine vet visits are essential for monitoring overall health, including hip evaluations and eye exams. Monthly bathing is typically sufficient, but too many baths can strip the skin of healthy oils. Daily brushing is ideal, but weekly brushing can help avoid the need for professional cleanings. Finnish Lapphunds have a thick undercoat that should be tended to by a groomer every 6 weeks. Scheduled six-monthly health checks are recommended throughout all life stages to ensure the dog's health and happiness.
What is the average vet bill for a Finnish Lapphund?
The average annual vet bills for a Finnish Lapphund range from $600 to $1,500. Routine vet visits for this breed can cost between $25 and $186. Basic veterinary services such as exams, blood work, imaging, and hospitalization may range from $100 to $3,500. Overall, pet owners can expect to spend between $700 and $1,500 per year on vet costs, including wellness check-ups, dental care, lab tests, and vaccines. Finnish Lapphunds are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 12-15 years, and the average cost claimed per year for this breed is $1,361.
Care Maintenance
How much does it cost to raise a Finnish Lapphund annually?
The annual cost of caring for a Finnish Lapphund can range from $600 to $1,500, with monthly expenses estimated between $50 and $80. Initial costs for acquiring a Finnish Lapphund puppy typically fall between $2,000 and $4,000. This breed has an average lifespan of 12-15 years and is generally healthy, making them more affordable to insure compared to other breeds with higher health risks. While the cost of purchasing a Finnish Lapphund may seem significant, the ongoing expenses of caring for the dog, including food, grooming, veterinary care, and insurance, should be considered as part of the overall cost of ownership.
Does Finnish Lapphund drool a lot?
The Finnish Lapphund breed is not known for excessive drooling, making them a good choice for owners who prefer a cleaner pet. They have a moderate energy level and enjoy games and activities. Finnish Lapphunds are intelligent, friendly, and devoted, but may exhibit unhealthy behaviors if left alone for extended periods. They are chatty and vocal, barking to alert owners of visitors or anything unusual. While all dogs may drool occasionally, Finnish Lapphunds have a very low drooling tendency, with drooling possibly indicating oral pain or discomfort. Overall, Finnish Lapphunds are not prone to excessive drooling, making them a suitable choice for those who want to avoid dealing with slobber stains on clothes or furniture.
How much grooming does Finnish Lapphund need?
The Finnish Lapphund has a thick, dense coat that sheds seasonally, requiring regular grooming to manage shedding. Owners are advised to brush the dog two to three times a week to remove dead hair and maintain a healthy coat growth pattern. Grooming should include using a large pin brush or metal rake. Puppies should be introduced to grooming tools early on, including nail trimming and baths. While grooming needs are generally minimal, owners should be prepared for more frequent grooming during shedding periods, known as "blowing coat." Regular brushing, occasional bathing, dental care, and nail trimming are recommended for overall grooming maintenance. Some owners opt for professional grooming every 6 weeks to manage shedding. Overall, a weekly half-hour maintenance groom is typically sufficient to keep a Finnish Lapphund's coat in good condition, with additional grooming time required during shedding seasons.
Does Finnish Lapphund shed a lot?
Finnish Lapphunds are known to shed quite regularly, with shedding occurring seasonally and most prominently in the spring and fall. They have a double coat consisting of a smooth outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat, which contributes to their shedding. Regular grooming, including weekly brushing and daily brushing during shedding season, is recommended to manage their shedding. Owners should be prepared for significant shedding, especially during shedding seasons, and should be aware that without proper management, the shedding can become unmanageable. Additionally, Finnish Lapphunds do not have a strong doggie odor and generally stay clean for extended periods, requiring baths only about once a month.
How often should you bathe a Finnish Lapphund?
The Finnish Lapphund, with its double coat, typically requires weekly brushing to remove dirt and loose hair, especially during shedding season. While they lack a strong doggie odor, occasional bathing is usually sufficient to keep them clean and looking their best. Recommendations for bathing frequency vary, with suggestions ranging from monthly baths to every 1-2 months or even every 3-4 months. It is important to avoid over-bathing, as this can strip the skin of healthy oils. Ultimately, the frequency of bathing should be based on the individual dog's activity level and cleanliness, with some owners opting to bathe only when necessary.
How much exercise does Finnish Lapphund need?
The Finnish Lapphund is a calm breed with moderate exercise requirements. They typically need around 60-90 minutes of exercise every day, which can include a long, brisk walk, play sessions with their owner or other dogs, training, and dog-based sports. While they are not hyperactive, they do require daily physical activity to prevent restlessness and behavioral issues. It is recommended to provide at least 1-2 hours of exercise daily, which can consist of walks, hikes, or play sessions. Overall, Finnish Lapphunds are active dogs that benefit from regular physical and mental stimulation to keep them healthy and happy.
Does Finnish Lapphund bark a lot?
Finnish Lapphunds are known to bark frequently, a trait inherited from their herding background where barking was used to control the herd. This breed is considered highly accomplished barkers, with a tendency to vocalize through barking, whining, and yipping. It is important to address this behavior early on with training to prevent excessive barking. Finnish Lapphunds are trainable, but their predisposition to barking should be taken into consideration, especially for those living in environments with sensitive neighbors. While they may not be as loud as some breeds, barking is a common behavior for Finnish Lapphunds due to their herding instinct.
How much food does a Finnish Lapphund eat per day?
The recommended daily food intake for a Finnish Lapphund typically ranges from 1.5 to 2 cups of dry food, divided into two meals per day. The amount of food required may vary based on factors such as the dog's activity level, age, and metabolism. Adult Lappies should be fed twice a day, with an average calorie requirement of around 30 to 40 calories per 1kg of body weight. For a 25-pound Finnish Lapphund puppy, the estimated daily calorie intake is 866 calories. It is important to provide a nutrient-rich, low-fat diet for Finnish Lapphunds, with a focus on high-quality proteins for puppies. Consulting with a veterinarian for specific feeding recommendations is advisable.
How much does it cost to groom a Finnish Lapphund monthly?
Grooming a Finnish Lapphund can cost between $40 to $75 per session, with additional charges possible based on factors such as size, coat condition, and temperament. Monthly grooming costs can vary, with base costs starting at a couple of hundred euros. It is important to get the puppy accustomed to grooming tasks such as brushing, nail trimming, bathing, and blow drying. Some sources mention that prices may increase randomly to four digits depending on luck. Mobile dog groomers may charge around $75 for an average size dog. Overall, grooming costs for a Finnish Lapphund can range from $50 to $80 monthly, with additional charges possible based on various factors.
How much playtime does a Finnish Lapphund need daily?
The Finnish Lapphund, a sweet-tempered and affectionate breed, requires moderate amounts of exercise, typically around 60-90 minutes daily. While they may not exercise themselves, a half-hour play session with their owner or another dog can also meet their needs. As puppies, they should be taken outside every 2 hours for excitement. As they mature, around 10-12 months old, they may need 30-60 minutes of physical activity daily. Overall, Finnish Lapphunds need at least 1-2 hours of exercise per day, which can include walks, hikes, play sessions, training, or dog-based sports to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
Temperament
Is Finnish Lapphund affectionate with family?
The Finnish Lapphund is known to be a friendly, affectionate, and submissive companion that craves companionship and forms strong bonds with its family. They are described as smart, eager to please, and great with children, making them excellent family dogs. Finnish Lapphunds are very social and love to be part of the family, showing affection towards all family members regardless of age. They are loyal, trainable, and gentle, making them suitable for novice owners. However, they have moderate exercise needs and require regular grooming due to their thick double coat. Overall, Finnish Lapphunds are known for their loving and adaptable nature, making them excellent family pets.
Is Finnish Lapphund good with other dogs?
The Finnish Lapphund is a gentle and intelligent breed that is known for being good with other dogs, children, and people. They are not aggressive and generally get along well with other pets if properly socialized. While they may be hesitant around new animals, Finnish Lapphunds are typically friendly and loving towards other dogs. They are described as affectionate, trainable, and eager to please, making them wonderful family companions. However, it is noted that mature Finnish Lapphunds adopted into homes with existing pets may require extra help adjusting. Overall, Finnish Lapphunds are considered to be good with other dogs and make a great addition to households with kids or other pets.
Is Finnish Lapphund prone to separation anxiety?
Finnish Lapphunds are social dogs that may experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. While they are not a breed known for typical separation anxiety, they have a strong need to be with their humans and can develop anxiety when alone for long periods. It is recommended to involve them in daily family activities, provide gradual training, interactive toys, and regular human interaction to help them adjust to being alone. They are prone to separation anxiety and may benefit from brain-stimulating activities to relax and stay happy when left alone. Socialization is important for their confidence and behavior, and it is advised to avoid reinforcing separation anxiety by making a big fuss when leaving or returning, and consider providing special treats or puzzle toys.
Is Finnish Lapphund aggressive?
Key points from the sources include: - The Finnish Lapphund is not an aggressive breed. - They are friendly, sociable, and good-natured. - They may be protective of their family and herd. - They are loyal, easy to train, and great with children. - They may be wary of strangers but are not vocal for long. - They are submissive and accepting of human leadership. Overall, the Finnish Lapphund is a gentle, non-aggressive, and friendly breed that is loyal, easy to train, and great with children. They may be protective of their family and herd, and while they may be wary of strangers, they are not vocal for long. The breed is submissive and accepting of human leadership, making them a well-rounded and adaptable pet.
Is Finnish Lapphund good with children?
The Finnish Lapphund is known to be a smart, gentle, and submissive breed that is great with children when socialized properly as a puppy. They are intelligent, trainable, and display patience and gentleness towards kids, making them ideal companions for families with young children. These Arctic pups are faithful, friendly, and make lifetime friends with children when taught proper manners. Finnish Lapphunds are described as gentle, easily trainable, cold-hardy, and active dogs that bring love and happiness to households. Overall, the consensus from various sources is that Finnish Lapphunds are wonderful with humans, including children, and are loyal, loving, and friendly pets that are well-suited for family life.
Is Finnish Lapphund stubborn or independent?
The Finnish Lapphund breed is known to be intelligent and quick to learn, typical of herding breeds. They have an independent streak and can be strong-willed, but they are also eager to please their owners. This combination of traits can make them fairly easy to train, although they may exhibit stubbornness at times due to their high level of independence. Finnish Lapphunds are pack dogs that crave companionship and may exhibit undesirable behaviors if left alone for long periods of time. Overall, they are friendly, gentle, affectionate, and known for their intelligence, making them suitable for novice owners with proper training and socialization.
Is Finnish Lapphund protective or territorial?
The Finnish Lapphund breed is known to be protective of its herd and family, displaying a sensitive and protective nature towards them. While they are not aggressive, they will not back down if challenged. They are good watchdogs, alert and always on guard, but they are not considered ideal guard dogs as they are more likely to alert their owners rather than act aggressively towards intruders. Finnish Lapphunds are calm, gentle, and submissive towards people, making them friendly towards strangers and less suitable as guard dogs. Overall, they have a natural protective instinct and are reliable watchdogs and family guardians without being overly aggressive, making them great companions for families.
Basic Info
What are the breed characteristics of Finnish Lapphund?
The Finnish Lapphund is a medium-sized herding dog known for its intelligence, independence, and strong-willed nature. They have a friendly and outgoing temperament, making them good family pets and suitable around children. Developed by the Sami people for herding reindeer, Finnish Lapphunds have a robust build and a long, thick double coat that requires weekly grooming. They are energetic and agile, with a high level of intelligence, but can be challenging as puppies before mellowing out after a year or two. The breed typically stands between 16-21 inches tall and weighs between 33-53 pounds, with a muscular shape accentuated by their fluffy coat.
What is the average litter size of Finnish Lapphund?
The average litter size of Finnish Lapphunds is about five pups, with breeders emphasizing quality over quantity in their breeding practices. This medium-sized Spitz-type breed typically stands between 16-21 inches tall and weighs between 33-53 pounds, with females generally being slightly smaller than males. Finnish Lapphunds are known for their hardy and easy-going nature, traditionally used for herding reindeer. Breeders have been cautious in their breeding efforts, resulting in a slow but steady increase in the number of Finnish Lapphunds.
What does a Finnish Lapphund look like?
The Finnish Lapphund is a medium-sized dog with a strongly-built and square body, known for its distinctive spitz features such as pricked ears and a plush tail that curls over the back. They have a profuse coat in various colors including black and cream, black and tan, white and grey, brown and white, brown and cream, as well as pure black, white, and gray. Finnish Lapphunds are typically 16-21 inches tall and weigh between 33-53 pounds, with males averaging 18-21 inches and females ranging from 16-19 inches. They have triangular, upright ears, oval-shaped eyes, and often have distinct mask-like markings. This breed is recognized for its luscious coat, sweet spitz-like face, and a structure that suggests they could thrive in arctic conditions. Finnish Lapphunds are known for being capable of galloping and are described as having ups and downs in terms of activity level, with a tendency to be a bit stubborn but quick learners.
What is the typical lifespan of Finnish Lapphund?
The Finnish Lapphund typically has a lifespan of 12-15 years, which is considered longer than similar-sized breeds. They are generally healthy dogs but can be prone to genetic disorders like hip issues. The breed's average weight ranges from 13 to 23 kilograms, with heights between 44 to 49 centimeters for males and 16 to 19 inches for females. Finnish Lapphunds are known for their friendly nature, especially with children, and can live past 17 years in some cases. Regular grooming is recommended to maintain their distinctive coat.
What is the origin of the Finnish Lapphund?
The Finnish Lapphund is an ancient breed that originated in Lapland, the northern region of Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Russia. It was developed by the Sami people, who were indigenous nomads known for reindeer herding. The breed's history dates back to at least 7000 BC, with archeological excavations revealing the presence of Lapponian dogs. The Finnish Lapphund is a descendant of arctic spitz herding dogs and is possibly a result of a female wolf mating with a domesticated male dog. The breed was first imported for breeding and gained attention for AKC recognition in 1987. Overall, the Finnish Lapphund has a long history of being a loyal and hardworking companion to the Sami people in the harsh arctic regions of Western Europe.
What is the average size of Finnish Lapphund?
The average size of a Finnish Lapphund is typically between 16-21 inches in height and 33-53 pounds in weight. Males are generally taller, ranging from 19.25 to 20.5 inches, while females are slightly smaller at 16-19 inches. The breed has a lifespan of 12-15 years and is considered a medium-sized dog with a distinct Spitz-type appearance. Finnish Lapphunds are known for their hardy and easy-going nature, traditionally used for herding reindeer. The coat of a Finnish Lapphund comes in various colors except merle, and they have a social and friendly personality.
Living Conditions
Is Finnish Lapphund suitable for city living?
The Finnish Lapphund is not considered suitable for city living, particularly in apartments, due to their need for excessive exercise, space, and cooler temperatures. They are described as a very physical breed that requires 3 hours of daily walks, making them better suited for colder, rural, or suburban settings where they can roam freely. Their alert, watchdog nature and herding instincts are better suited to a rural environment. While they are intelligent, trainable, and good with families, their moderate exercise needs and thick double coat make urban living less ideal. The breed is known for being gentle and submissive with people, making them great family pets. Overall, the Finnish Lapphund is not recommended for apartment living due to their exercise requirements and space needs.
Can Finnish Lapphund live in hot weather?
The Finnish Lapphund can live in hot climates, but they may struggle in high heat and humidity. It is recommended to provide them with access to cool, air-conditioned indoor spaces to prevent heat-related issues. While some owners in Finland shave their Lapphunds in the summer, it is generally advised not to do so as it can affect their ability to regulate body temperature. The breed is accustomed to cold weather and may shed their coat seasonally. Lapphunds prefer cooler temperatures due to their thick coat, and they may seek refuge indoors during heat waves. Overall, while they can adapt to hot weather with proper care, it is important to ensure they have access to cool environments to prevent overheating.
Is Finnish Lapphund good for seniors or low-activity homes?
The Finnish Lapphund is a breed that is generally suitable for seniors or low-activity homes due to their moderate exercise requirements. They typically need about 60-90 minutes of exercise daily, which can be met with a long, brisk walk. Engaging in gentle play activities like fetch or tug-of-war can help keep them active without straining their joints. While they are not independently active, participating in activities and games together can encourage them to exercise. Finnish Lapphunds are known to be sweet, smart, and good with families, but they do have moderate exercise needs and a thick double coat that requires regular grooming. It is important to provide them with space to play or roam around, as they enjoy activity and social interaction. Overall, Finnish Lapphunds can thrive in low-activity environments as long as their exercise and social needs are met.
Is Finnish Lapphund apartment friendly?
The Finnish Lapphund is generally not considered suitable for apartment living due to their need for space and tendency to be vocal. They are friendly, submissive, and crave companionship, making them best suited for homes with a secure yard where they can run freely. While they are known to be intelligent, trainable, and good with families, their moderate exercise needs and thick double coat may not be ideal for apartment settings. Finnish Lapphunds are calm and friendly around people they love, but they may not be the best choice for apartment-dwellers. Overall, the breed is more suited for homes with access to outdoor space rather than apartment living.
Can Finnish Lapphund live in cold weather?
The Finnish Lapphund is well-suited for cold weather due to their thick, double coat that helps keep them warm in harsh winters. They are natural cold weather champions and can withstand cold temperatures better than most other breeds. Finnish Lapphunds are native to cold climates and have a medium-length double coat that provides excellent insulation. It is important not to shave their coat as it helps regulate their body temperature in both cold and warm weather. While they thrive in cold climates, they may struggle in high heat and humidity, shedding their coat seasonally. Overall, Finnish Lapphunds are best suited for colder environments and may require extra care in warmer climates to prevent overheating.
Can Finnish Lapphund be left alone during the day?
The Finnish Lapphund is an intelligent and independent breed that thrives on being with their family. They are not prone to separation anxiety but may develop negative behaviors if left alone for extended periods of time. Daily exercise, mental stimulation, and human companionship are essential for this energetic breed. Finnish Lapphunds require at least two hours of exercise per day and do best in homes where someone is present most of the time. They may exhibit destructive behaviors if left alone for too long and prefer to be with their humans to avoid developing separation anxiety. It is important for owners to be committed to training and providing ample physical and mental stimulation to prevent behavioral issues in the Finnish Lapphund.
Can Finnish Lapphund live in small spaces?
The Finnish Lapphund is a breed that thrives on being a part of the family and requires companionship. While they are generally not suitable for apartments, they can adapt to small spaces with substantial exercise and mental stimulation. However, a house with a yard is strongly preferred due to their need for outdoor time and physical activity. Daily exercise is essential for this breed, and apartment living is only recommended if the owner can commit to meeting their exercise needs. Finnish Lapphunds are gentle and friendly dogs but may exhibit behaviors like digging and pulling on the leash. Overall, the Finnish Lapphund is best suited to a detached home without close neighbors where they can receive the necessary exercise and attention.
Training Intelligence
Is Finnish Lapphund easy to train?
The Finnish Lapphund is an intelligent and quick learner, making them generally easy to train. They are known to be compliant in training, good with families, and adaptable. However, they can be independent or strong-willed at times, requiring consistent training and attention. It is recommended to start training them when they are young, as their attention spans can be short. Finnish Lapphunds have moderate exercise needs and a thick double coat that requires regular grooming. While they may have some stubborn moments, overall, they are calm dogs that respond well to training efforts. Regular training sessions lasting between 5 to 15 minutes are suggested, especially for puppies. It is important to provide them with mental stimulation and companionship to prevent undesirable behaviors that may arise from being left alone for long periods of time.
What kind of activities are good for Finnish Lapphund?
Finnish Lapphunds are calm dogs with moderate exercise requirements, typically benefitting from a daily long, brisk walk to keep them healthy and happy. While they may not naturally exercise themselves, engaging in a half-hour play session with their owner or another dog can also meet their exercise needs. They enjoy running, playing games, barking, and activities such as formal obedience trialling, agility, flyball, herding, and tracking. Tailoring activities to be lower-impact, like gentle walks, light play, or short hikes on softer terrain, is recommended, especially for senior Lapphunds. Providing interactive toys and engaging in obedience training can help channel their energy into positive activities. Owners are advised to be firm, fair, and consistent in their training approach with Finnish Lapphunds.
How intelligent is Finnish Lapphund?
The Finnish Lapphund is widely regarded as a very intelligent breed, known for being quick to learn and eager to please. They are described as smart, with some sources even suggesting they may be smarter than humans in certain situations. This breed is friendly, calm, and attached to their human pack, making them great companions for families. While they are trainable and good with children, they are also noted to have moderate exercise needs and a thick double coat. Finnish Lapphunds are known for their individual character and strong-willed nature, requiring early socialization for easy companionship. Overall, they are faithful, gentle, and non-aggressive dogs that can make excellent pets for the right family.
What are common training challenges with Finnish Lapphund?
Common training challenges with Finnish Lapphunds include excessive barking, separation anxiety, and being strong-willed. These issues can be effectively addressed through proper training methods and techniques. Mental stimulation is crucial for this intelligent breed, and providing toys and puzzles can help keep their minds active. Additionally, incorporating obedience training into everyday tasks can be beneficial for their overall behavior. Health concerns such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, and progressive retinal issues are common in Finnish Lapphunds and should be monitored. Overall, consistent training, mental stimulation, and addressing health concerns are key aspects of successfully training and caring for Finnish Lapphunds.
Breed
Is Finnish Lapphund good with cats?
The Finnish Lapphund breed is generally good with cats and can happily coexist with them in a household. They are known to develop respect for cats, especially when introduced at a young age, but even adult Finnish Lapphunds can learn to live peacefully with feline companions. While some initial introductions and management may be necessary, many Finnish Lapphunds successfully live with cats. This breed is described as sweet-tempered, affectionate, and family-friendly, making them well-suited for households with children, other dogs, and cats when properly socialized. Overall, Finnish Lapphunds are loving and devoted pets that can thrive in a multi-pet environment, including with cats.
Is Finnish Lapphund good for first-time owners?
The Finnish Lapphund breed is generally considered to be a good choice for first-time dog owners due to their gentle, friendly, and easygoing nature. They are known to be intelligent, trainable, and eager to please, making them suitable for novice owners. Finnish Lapphunds are typically good with small children and other pets, although introductions and early management may be necessary. While they are not aggressive guard dogs, they are alert and will notify owners of strangers. Training is important for Finnish Lapphunds, as they require effort and a steep learning curve, but they are generally well-suited for families who are willing to spend time with their pups.
Roles
Can Finnish Lapphund be used as a therapy or service dog?
The Finnish Lapphund breed is known for its high intelligence, versatility, and love for tasks, making them excellent candidates for service or therapy roles. They can be trained for a wide range of service dog tasks, including mobility assistance. Finnish Lapphunds have a gentle and affectionate temperament, making them great therapy dogs that provide comfort and companionship. While not as popular in the States for service dog work, they are slowly gaining recognition worldwide for their wonderful attitude and suitability for therapy and assistance roles. Overall, Finnish Lapphunds are considered companion animals that can help ease anxiety, depression, loneliness, and some phobias, showcasing their potential as valuable therapy animals.
Is Finnish Lapphund a good guard dog?
The Finnish Lapphund is not considered a good guard dog due to its friendly and non-aggressive nature. While they are alert and may bark to alert their owners of strangers, they are more likely to greet newcomers with friendliness rather than act as a deterrent. This breed is known for being intelligent, trainable, and great with children and other animals, making them ideal family pets. Finnish Lapphunds are not aggressive towards strangers and are more likely to lick than to show aggression. They are described as friendly, gentle, and empathetic dogs, making them better suited as companions rather than guard dogs. Overall, the Finnish Lapphund is a great choice for novice owners looking for a friendly and trainable family pet, but not for those seeking a guard dog.
Can Finnish Lapphund be trained for herding or hunting?
The Finnish Lapphund is a versatile breed that can be trained for various activities such as dog agility trials, carting, mushing, obedience, Rally obedience, showmanship, flyball, tracking, and herding events. They have a natural herding instinct and many enjoy participating in herding trials. While they can be strong-willed, Finnish Lapphunds generally take well to training and excel in dog sports like agility, obedience, and rally. Originally bred to herd reindeer, these deeply-insulated dogs are included in the AKC herding group and possess herding instincts. However, due to breeding for companion purposes, some Finnish Lapphunds may not exhibit the strongest herding instinct. It is important to address their tendency to bark early on with proper training methods. Overall, Finnish Lapphunds make wonderful companions for outdoor enthusiasts and can be successful in various training activities, including herding.
Is Finnish Lapphund recognized by major kennel clubs?
The Finnish Lapphund is recognized by major kennel clubs such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the United Kennel Club (UKC). The breed was first recognized by the Finnish Kennel Club in 1945 and later accepted by the AKC in 2011. Additionally, the UKC recognized the Finnish Lapphund in 1994, placing it in the Northern Group. The Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) also approved the breed as a "listed" breed in 2006. Overall, the Finnish Lapphund has gained recognition and acceptance by prominent kennel clubs over the years, solidifying its status as a recognized breed in various countries.
Exercise Energy
Can Finnish Lapphund stay indoors with limited walks?
The Finnish Lapphund is an active breed that requires daily exercise, such as long walks or play sessions, to stay healthy and happy. While they can live in hot climates, they should have access to cool indoor spaces, especially during the heat of the day. A daily long walk with playtime of about 30 minutes is recommended, but they can also benefit from multiple play sessions throughout the day. Finnish Lapphunds are not demanding on space but do need moderate exercise, ideally around 1-2 hours per day. It is important to provide them with opportunities for physical activity, whether through walks, play in the yard, or engaging in low-impact games. While they can adapt to living indoors with limited walks, they thrive with regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Ownership Cost
How much does a Finnish Lapphund weigh?
The Finnish Lapphund is a medium-sized breed, with males typically standing 18-21 inches tall and weighing between 42-53 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 16-19 inches tall and 33-44 pounds. The breed's weight range is commonly stated as 33-53 pounds. They have a long, thick double coat that requires weekly brushing. Finnish Lapphunds are known for their herding abilities and have a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
How much does a Finnish Lapphund puppy cost?
Finnish Lapphund puppies typically cost between $1,000 to $2,500, with imported puppies potentially reaching up to $5,000. Prices can vary based on the breeder and location, with some sources quoting prices ranging from $3,000 to $3,500 in specific areas. The breed is considered rare and beautiful, with average costs falling within the $1,000 to $2,000 range. Additional expenses to consider include monthly or annual care costs ranging from $50 to $80, as well as potential vet bills averaging $600 to $1,500 per year. Some breeders offer puppies starting at $3,000, with additional costs for registration and associated litter expenses. It is recommended to inquire directly with breeders for specific pricing details and to consider pet insurance for future medical expenses. Adopting through specialized rescues may also be an option for those interested in the Finnish Lapphund breed.
What are the adoption fees for a Finnish Lapphund?
The adoption fees for a Finnish Lapphund typically range from $50 to $300 when adopting from a rescue or shelter, covering expenses such as basic exams, parasite treatment, spaying/neutering, and microchipping. However, purchasing a Finnish Lapphund from a breeder can cost significantly more, with prices reported around $2800 to $5500 depending on the individual puppy or litter. Additionally, there are mentions of adoption fees ranging from $35 to $500 based on the rescue organization. It is noted that Finnish Lapphunds are generally healthy dogs, but may be prone to conditions like elbow and hip dysplasia. Adopting from a shelter or rescue is highlighted as a more cost-effective option compared to buying from a breeder.
Where can you adopt or buy a Finnish Lapphund?
Key points extracted from the snippets include the availability of Finnish Lapphunds for adoption through rescue organizations and individuals, as well as breeders listed on the Finnish Lapphund Club of America website. The option of adoption is highlighted as a more cost-effective alternative to buying from a breeder, with adoption fees typically ranging from $50 to $300. The Finnish Lapphund Club of America is mentioned as a resource for finding reputable breeders, although the availability of adoptable Finnish Lapphunds may vary by location. The breed is described as loyal, affectionate, and with a rich history. Overall, individuals interested in adopting or buying a Finnish Lapphund are encouraged to explore both adoption and breeder options to find the right fit for their needs.
Join Our Pet-Loving Community
Get info from fellow pet owners, and help them by sharing your experiences, and get advice from experts and enthusiasts .