The Swedish Lapphund Community

The Swedish Lapphund is one of Sweden's oldest native dog breeds, an ancient spitz-type herding dog developed over many centuries by the Sami people of Lapland, the nomadic indigenous people of Scandinavia's far north, who used the breed to herd reindeer - the animals central to Sami culture and livelihood - across the vast, cold and demanding terrain of the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions of northern Scandinavia. The breed's origins are thought to predate recorded history, and archaeological evidence suggests that dogs of the spitz type have lived alongside the Sami for thousands of years. The Swedish Lapphund was recognised by the Swedish Kennel Club and subsequently by the FCI, and is registered by the Kennel Club in the Pastoral Group in the United Kingdom, where it remains uncommon. The Swedish Lapphund is a medium-sized, well-built and harmoniously proportioned spitz dog of considerable physical appeal. The coat is a classic dense northern double coat - a soft, woolly undercoat beneath a longer, straight outer coat that provides excellent insulation in cold conditions. The coat is typically solid black, though liver and bear brown also occur. The erect, pointed ears, the curled or carried tail and the alert, intelligent expression are all characteristic of the spitz type. Adults typically stand 40 to 51 centimetres at the shoulder and weigh 15 to 20 kilograms. The character is lively, loyal and intelligent - a working herding dog that combines the spitz's independence and alertness with a genuine warmth and sociability toward its own family. The Swedish Lapphund is typically good with children and sociable with other dogs when well socialised, and forms strong bonds with its household. The herding instinct is present and may manifest in circling or rounding up behaviour. The breed is naturally vocal - the Sami used the breed's voice as part of the reindeer herding process and this characteristic is deeply ingrained. Prospective owners in noise-sensitive situations should consider this carefully. Training is rewarding. The Swedish Lapphund is highly intelligent and responds well to positive, engaging training methods. It has natural aptitude for agility, obedience and herding activities, and the combination of intelligence and working drive means it benefits from regular mental stimulation beyond basic exercise. Health testing is important, particularly given the small UK population. Hip Dysplasia assessment and Progressive Retinal Atrophy DNA testing are the primary requirements. Purchase prices from KC-registered breeders range from £800 to £1,500. Monthly running costs average £75 to £130. The Swedish Lapphund Club of Great Britain is the primary resource for breed information, health testing, responsible breeders and rescue contact.