Swedish lapphund

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog swedish lapphund!

Here, you will find all the useful information about swedish lapphund. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.

Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.

Overall description of the breed

Present for thousands of years, the Swedish Lapphund is an ancient breed primarily used by the Sami people as a guard dog and for herding reindeer. Similar to its close cousin, the Finnish Lapphund, it belongs to the group of Nordic herding and guarding dogs.

The exact origins of this breed are challenging to trace, but we know it's one of the oldest Spitz breeds. Its ancestors were already present in Northern Europe over 7000 years ago. As a versatile companion, it possesses remarkable endurance, allowing it to withstand incredibly harsh weather conditions.

Appreciated for its dedication to work, it was officially recognized by the International Cynological Federation on January 19, 1955, and its current breed standard was published on November 10, 2011.

The Swedish Lapphund exhibits all the typical physical characteristics of Spitz-type dogs, although its height at the withers is slightly below average. Its appearance is graceful and elegant, enhanced by a graceful gait. Its body is rectangular due to being longer than tall.

The Swedish Lapphund has a sturdy build with a high power-to-weight ratio. Its bone structure is robust, and it possesses well-developed musculature. Its back is straight, wide, and firm, with a generously developed chest.

Its chest is ample and deep while maintaining a good height on its legs. Its head and muzzle are long, with a moderately pronounced stop. Its small, triangular ears are erect and set high on the skull.

Its coat is dense, tight, and comes with a soft, compact, and slightly wavy undercoat. The standard only allows solid colors, mainly black with occasional brown shades.

The Swedish Lapphund is a lively and incredibly agile dog, highly attentive to its surroundings. With its family, it is affectionate and willingly participates in intense activities to channel its boundless energy. Regular exercise is essential for its well-being and to maintain a calm demeanor indoors.

This affectionate and tender dog requires regular human interaction. It does not tolerate solitude well, so it's advisable to accustom it to being alone from a young age to help it manage anxiety during your absence. Intelligent and obedient, it is easy to train and takes pleasure in participating in activities with you, especially obedience training.

If you're looking for a loyal companion that enjoys spending time with you, the Swedish Lapphund is an excellent choice. Balanced and affectionate, it is well-suited for families and excels in work. At home, it is peaceful, and its legendary good mood brings joy to all family members.

Regarding its size, it weighs approximately 15 to 20 kg (33 to 44 lb) and stands between 45 to 51 cm (18" to 20") at the withers for males, and 40 to 46 cm (16" to 18") for females.

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Origins

The Swedish Lapphund, also known as the Swedish Lapphund, is an ancient breed originating from northern Scandinavia, especially the regions inhabited by the Sami people. These dogs were traditionally used by indigenous peoples to guard reindeer. Their ability to adapt to extreme weather conditions and their endurance make them indispensable companions in arctic regions. The Swedish Lapphund has retained many of its primitive characteristics and robust appearance, which reflects its antiquity and historical role in the survival of Sami nomadic communities.

History

The history of the Swedish Lapphund dates back to several centuries, if not millennia, alongside the Samis of Lapland. These dogs were mainly used for guarding reindeer herds, a vital activity for the Samis. The breed nearly disappeared at the beginning of the 20th century, but conservation efforts have preserved these unique dogs. In 1944, the Swedish Lapphund was officially recognized by the Swedish Kennel Club. Since then, the breed has gained popularity not only in Sweden but also internationally, while maintaining its qualities as a working dog.

Standard

The standard of the Swedish Lapphund breed is defined by strict criteria to ensure the purity and distinctive characteristics of this breed. The dog must have a robust and agile appearance, with a dense double coat to protect it from harsh climates. The ears are of medium size and carried straight. The eyes are dark in color, reflecting a lively and intelligent expression. The tail is well furnished with hair and carried curled over the back or to the side. The Swedish Lapphund must also have a good temperament, balanced and sociable.

Physical characteristics

The Swedish Lapphund is a medium-sized dog. Males usually measure between 45 and 51 cm at the withers and females between 40 and 46 cm. Their weight varies from 15 to 21 kg for males and 13 to 19 kg for females. The coat is dense and double, with a soft undercoat and a rough outer layer. The most common colors are black, brown, and sand, often with white markings. Their thick fur effectively protects them from the harsh weather conditions of their original region.

Character

The Swedish Lapphund is known for its friendly, energetic, and intelligent nature. It is very sociable and enjoys the company of humans, making it an excellent family dog. Loyal and protective, it is also vigilant and suitable for guard duties. Its intelligence and curious nature require regular mental and physical stimulation. While generally obedient, it can be independent and requires firm but positive training. Its balanced temperament makes it a pleasant and reliable companion in many situations.

Life expectancy

The life expectancy of a Swedish lapphund is generally between 12 and 15 years. With proper care, balanced nutrition, and enough exercise, some individuals can even live longer. The longevity of this breed is partly due to its natural robustness and genetic predisposition to good health. However, as with all breeds, it is essential to closely monitor their health, regularly take them to the vet, and provide them with a healthy environment to maximize their lifespan.

Exercise and activity needs

The Swedish Lapphund has high exercise needs due to its working dog heritage. It is essential to provide him with at least one to two hours of physical activity per day, including walks, interactive games, and training sessions. This dog particularly enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, canicross, or agility. In addition to physical exercise, he requires regular mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Interactive toys and search games can greatly contribute to his overall well-being.

Recommended diet

The Swedish Lapphund requires a balanced and high-quality diet to maintain its health and energy. It is recommended to feed them premium kibble suitable for their size, age, and activity level. Monthly food budget can range between 50 and 80 euros, depending on the quality of products chosen and the specific needs of the dog. In addition, healthy treats and supplements such as omega-3 can be beneficial. It is important to consult a veterinarian to establish a dietary plan tailored to each dog.

Training and obedience

Education and training of the Swedish Lapphund require patience and consistency. Due to its intelligence and energetic nature, it responds well to positive reinforcement methods, such as rewards and praise. Training sessions should be varied to maintain interest and avoid monotony. Starting education at a young age is crucial to establish good habits and basic obedience. Socialization classes are also recommended to help the dog interact positively with other animals and people.

Behavior with children

The Swedish Lapphund is generally excellent with children, thanks to its friendly and playful temperament. It is patient and protective, making it a good companion for families. However, as with all dogs, it is important to supervise interactions between the dog and young children to ensure safety and mutual respect. Educating children to treat the dog kindly and respect its space contributes to a harmonious relationship. Its energy and need for stimulation also make it an excellent playmate for active children.

Compatibility with Other Animals

The Swedish Lapphund is generally sociable and can get along well with other pets, especially if they have been socialized from a young age. They have a moderate herding instinct, which means they may try to gather other animals, but they usually do so gently. A gradual and supervised introduction is recommended to ensure a harmonious cohabitation. Positive interactions with other dogs, cats, and household animals are essential to prevent territorial or aggressive behavior.

Grooming needs

The Swedish Lapphund has a dense coat that requires regular maintenance. Weekly brushing is recommended to prevent knots and remove dead hair, especially during seasonal shedding. During these periods, more frequent brushing may be necessary. Bathing should only be given when necessary to avoid altering the skin's natural oils. Check and clean the ears regularly, and trim the claws if they do not wear down naturally. Regular dental care is also advised to prevent oral health problems.

Health

The Swedish Lapphund is generally a robust and healthy breed. However, like all breeds, it may be predisposed to certain genetic conditions. Some potential health problems include hip dysplasia, certain eye diseases, and allergies. Regular veterinary visits are essential to monitor your dog's health and detect any problems early. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper grooming also help maintain the health and longevity of this dog.

Average price

The average price of a Swedish Lapphund can vary depending on the reputation of the breeder, the dog's lineage and the region. Typically, the cost of acquiring a puppy ranges between 800 and 1500 euros. Reputable breeders often provide health guarantees and after-sales support, justifying higher prices. It is important to choose a responsible breeder who conducts necessary health tests and raises the puppies in good conditions. This initial price does not include long-term maintenance and veterinary care costs.

Expenses

The monthly expenses for a Swedish Lapphund can vary depending on many factors such as food, veterinary care, maintenance, and activities. On average, these expenses can be estimated between 60 and 100 euros per month. This includes the costs of food, grooming, regular veterinary expenses (such as vaccinations and annual check-ups), and necessary accessories like toys, leashes, and beds. Costs may increase in case of unexpected veterinary care or participation in specific activities such as training courses or competitions.

Name ideas

Choosing a name for your Swedish Lapphund can be a fun task. Here are some suggestions to inspire you: Loki, Freya, Thor, Sarek, Skadi, Balder, Nova, Odin, Loke, Saga, Bjorn, Tindra, Fenrir, Astrid, Aki, Runa, Eira, Frigg, Alva, Sven. These names often reflect the Nordic heritage and robustness of the breed. It is important to choose a short and easy-to-pronounce name, as it will be used frequently for training and daily interactions.

Legislation and regulation

The Swedish Lapphund is not classified as a dangerous breed in France and does not require any specific declaration. However, it is important to comply with local laws regarding dog ownership, such as registering with local authorities, mandatory rabies vaccination, and identification by microchip. In Sweden, where the breed originates, specific regulations may apply for working dogs. It is always advisable to check local and national regulations to ensure legal compliance.

Official recognition

The Swedish Lapphund is recognized by several canine organizations around the world. In Sweden, it is recognized by the Swedish Kennel Club (SKK). Internationally, the breed is also recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) under standard number 135. In the United States, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes this breed in the herding dog category. In the United Kingdom, it is recognized by the Kennel Club (KC). In France, it is recognized by the Société Centrale Canine (SCC). This official recognition allows owners to participate in dog shows and competitions.

Pedigrees

Several recognized breed clubs offer pedigrees for the Swedish lapphund. In France, the Société Centrale Canine (SCC) issues pedigrees to dogs registered with the LOF (Livre des Origines Français). In Sweden, the Swedish Kennel Club (SKK) maintains a registry for the breed. In the United States, the American Kennel Club (AKC) also provides pedigrees for this breed. Other clubs include the Kennel Club in the United Kingdom and the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) in Canada. These clubs provide valuable information on the pedigrees and health tests of registered dogs.

Destination and usage

The Swedish Lapphund is a versatile dog whose main traditional uses include reindeer herding and herding work. Thanks to its intelligence and agility, it is also well suited to canine sports such as agility, obedience, and rally. In addition, its friendly and loyal temperament makes it an excellent companion dog and a good choice for active families. In northern regions, it is still used for its working dog skills, but it is also appreciated for its qualities as a guard and protection dog.

Prohibitions

The Swedish Lapphund is generally not subject to any specific restrictions in most countries, including France. However, it is essential to comply with local laws regarding dog ownership, such as leash regulations and public spaces where dogs are prohibited. It is also crucial to comply with vaccination and microchipping regulations. Owners should always research the specific rules in their area to avoid any legal issues. In Sweden, specific restrictions may apply to working dogs in certain areas.

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