Swedish Lapphund Dog Breed Information

Group

Foundation Stock Service

Weight

13-20 kg

Height

40-50 cm

Lifespan

12-14 years

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About the Swedish Lapphund

Reviewed by:

Dr. Cristina Alice Vulpe

Veterinarian

From the glacial mountains of Sweden, the nomadic Sami people bred the first Swedish Lapphunds. As a result, the Swedish highly cherish these dogs and the Lapphunds have firmly established their position by being the first dog to be Swedish Kennel Club recognized.

These dogs aren’t only found in Scandinavia anymore and have permeated many other countries. Are you considering adopting one of these adorable pups to be part of your family? Learn more about this breed before inviting them to your home to give them the appropriate care and love they deserve.

What is the history & origin of the Swedish Lapphund?

One fun fact about Swedish Lapphunds is that they are the oldest of the nine native breeds to this country and have earned their status as Sweden’s national dog. The first official recognition of Swedish Lappies, as some call them, was back in 1903, but their lineages trace far beyond making them one of the most ancient breeds.

Around the 1950s, things got quite challenging for these hounds because they nearly reached extinction. However, breeders resumed breeding shortly after this period; even so, Lappies remain a rare breed worldwide.

What is a Swedish Lapphund breed?

Being purebred dogs in Europe did not prevent the Swedish Lapphund from being recognised by international organizations like the American Kennel Club, which not only recognized the Swedish Lappie, but also invited the breed to compete in the AKC Companions events. These guard dogs got initially bred to assist the nomadic Sami people in herding reindeer.

There are several dog sports perfect for this hunting dog. For example, they can partake in agility and flyball and other canine sports such as rescue searching, herding, and obedience training.

The United Kennel Club has a well-documented breeding standard for the Swedish Lapphund detailing all qualifying criteria.

Who is a Swedish Lapphund best for?

If you would like to adopt this dog breed, you might have many questions racing through your mind. For example, is the Swedish Lapphund a good fit for first-time dog owners? Or, can I adopt a Swedish Lappie when I live in an apartment?

All of these questions are warranted, and the answer to both is yes! They are a very versatile breed, and as long as you give them some time outdoors by implementing a daily exercise routine, they’ll love being part of your family. Even people with other dogs can adopt this breed.

Swedish Lapphund Grooming & Shedding

This breed has a thick double coat that sheds seasonally, making it require extra tender loving care. When the dog hair starts to shed, give this breed a nice trim and groom, especially around the paws. Also, groom around its pricked ears regularly to prevent ear infections.

Most breeds require grooming when they shed heavily, so this should not be a problem for most dog owners since these requirements are not unique to the Swedish Lappie breed. However, some constant maintenance is also necessary. Brush your dog weekly and use a metal comb for the long hairs.

Do Swedish Lapphunds bark a lot?

Many breeds, mainly those used for herding, hunting and home security, tend to bark a lot. Unlike those breeds, Swedish Lappies bark mostly when they see something suspicious. Due to their curiosity, they might bark at things they aren’t familiar with seeing in their daily lives.

As they grow older, Lappies adjust well and become a little quieter. However, they can bark a lot when left alone for hours, especially outdoors. Therefore, try to keep your pup indoors around a familiar setting to avoid excessive barking that could irritate the neighbours.

What is the average weight & height of a Swedish Lapphund?

The weight and size of Swedish Lappies classify them as small to medium dogs with an average minimum weight of 13kg. However, your pup can reach up to 20kg at a height range of 40cm to 50cm.

Their size makes Lappies perfect for apartment living since they are not that large despite their use as herding dogs in some parts of the world. Try to keep your pup’s weight under 20kg to prevent it from being overweight and suffering the health consequences.

Are Swedish Lapphunds easy to train?

Training a Swedish Lappie is a breeze because of its nimble mind and curiosity. They are eager to please their owners, making the entire process fun for both parties. You can smoothly instil obedience training in this breed’s daily routine.

Many Spitz dogs are fun to train, and this dog breed is no different. Positive affirmation and reward-based training are the best techniques for the Swedish Lappie dog. Perhaps their trainability also contributed to this dog being the national breed in Sweden.

How do Swedish Lapphunds behave? A look at their temperament and personality

These Swedish pups’ eager and curious nature contributes to an overall perfect personality. In addition, they are not temperamental, making them the right puppy for those without much experience with dogs.

These pups are very loving and thus need to be indoors with people where they can display their affection more conveniently. Also, since Lappies are used to being in larger families, they do well with other pets and children, especially if you immediately familiarize your dog with other family members when they are still a new puppy.

Swedish Lappies do not often become agitated at other dogs, even when they meet as adults.

Does the Swedish Lapphund have any common health issues?

Swedish Lappies are an exceptionally healthy breed, but they are predisposed to conditions like many other dogs. However, this dog breed’s health issues are common, like hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and diabetes.

These genetic health problems can be handled or mitigated conveniently by frequent wellness visits to the veterinarian. Like other dog breeds, the Swedish Lappie does very well with a healthy lifestyle. Maintaining a healthy weight could do wonders for this dog breed since it can prevent conditions such as diabetes from progressing.

What is the lifespan of a Swedish Lapphund?

With a healthy routine and all medical concerns taken care of, you can have your furry best friend around for over a decade. When shown appropriate care, Swedish Lappies live for approximately 12 years. Ensure you implement a good exercise routine and get the best medical care if any chronic conditions arise.

Also, watch your dog’s diet to prevent any such chronic conditions from shortening its life span.

How much does a Swedish Lapphund need to be fed?

This breed is energetic and can take on fun activities for a long time to burn off that energy. To match your pup’s energy levels, ensure that it gets high-quality dog food, such as dry kibble or canned meals.

Ensure oral hygiene is a priority if you are feeding your Swedish Lappie wet dog food with broth or other liquids. Other than that, the dietary requirements for this breed aren’t extraordinary.

How much can you expect to pay for a Swedish Lapphund in Australia?

You can find the Swedish Lapphund from a reputable breeder in Australia. The average price for this breed ranges around $1,500, which is quite reasonable, especially considering it is one of the rare dog breeds. Usually, breeders vaccinate and microchip pups before offering them up for sale.

Alternatively, you can opt for adoption by contacting your local breed club and rescue groups. Ultimately, there is a chance you can find a Swedish Lapphund looking for a loving home in rescue shelters amongst other breeds.

Regardless of how you assume dog ownership of this Swedish hound, please give it a loving home and a healthy routine to try and extend its life span as much as possible.

Swedish Lapphund FAQs

Do you want to learn more about Swedish Lappies? Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about this social breed that could shed more light on potential owners’ inquiries.

Are Swedish Lapphund dogs hypoallergenic?

The thick coat on this breed does not make it the perfect fit for families with allergy sufferers. Their dander could trigger an allergic reaction, especially when they seasonally shed.

Are Swedish Lapphund dogs ideal for first-time dog owners?

First-time dog owners can do very well with the Swedish Lapphund because it is the perfect pup for less experienced people. They are very obedient and friendly dogs that tend to make friends easily. That is contrary to many dogs with a stubborn streak, making it easier for first-time owners to handle.

Do Swedish Lapphund dogs suffer from separation anxiety?

Many breeds suffer from separation anxiety, and the Swedish Lappie is no different. When left to their own devices for hours, especially outdoors, they can get frustrated and voice their concerns by barking to people passing by and neighbours.