Swedish Lapphund

Swedish Lapphund

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About Swedish Lapphund

Sure, meet the Swedish Lapphund, your potential fun-loving fluffy companion! This ancient breed hails from Sweden and was traditionally used by the Sami people for herding reindeer - but don't worry, they're just as happy herding tennis balls in the backyard!

Swedish Lapphunds are known for their intelligent, friendly, alert, and instinctively protective personality that makes them exceptional family pets. Their uncanny ability to perceive the mood of their human family is truly remarkable. If you're down, they'll be there, offering a silent, comforting presence that can melt away the toughest of your worries. And when it’s playtime, these dogs are bundles of energetic joy.

They sport a thick, luxurious coat that comes primarily in black or bear-brown. This coat is perfect for cuddles, but it does require regular brushing to keep it looking its best. As an active breed, they'll also need plenty of exercise to stay physically and mentally stimulated.

Life with a Swedish Lapphund is sure to be an adventure. Whether you're hiking in the great outdoors or snuggling up for a movie, these loving, loyal dogs are the perfect companions. And their delightful ‘Lapphund song’ which they use to communicate will surely make your heart sing as well!

Interesting Facts

1

The Swedish Lapphund is considered a rare breed with only a few thousand existing worldwide. This breed, with its bushy curling tail and fluffy double coat, is the oldest known native dog breed in Sweden.

2

They have been used for centuries by the Sami people, indigenous to Lapland, for herding and guarding reindeer. Their exceptional agility, intelligence, and vocal abilities made them ideal for navigating the harsh Arctic terrain and managing these health-sensitive animals.

3

Interestingly, these dogs are known for having a unique communication ability. Swedish Lapphunds don't just bark, they can actually sing, using a series of melodious tones, a trait that helped them keep predators away from the herds.

4

As a breed developed for reindeer herding, they possess brilliant weather-resistant double coats. Their undercoat is dense, wooly, and waterproof while the upper coat is longer, straight, and harsh, acting as an exceptional shield against freezing temperatures.

5

The Swedish Lapphund has been featured on Swedish postage stamps multiple times, raising awareness and love for this fascinating breed across the country. It's a testament to the cultural significance of these unique dogs within Sweden.

6

Swedish Lapphunds are known for their expressive eyes, which are typically dark brown and almond-shaped, giving them a keen and alert appearance that reflects their intelligent and curious nature.

7

This breed is one of the few that can trace its lineage directly back to ancient spitz-type dogs, making them a living link to the canine companions of early Scandinavian settlers.

8

In 1944, the Swedish Kennel Club recognized the Swedish Lapphund as its first national dog breed, highlighting the breed's historical importance and cultural heritage within the country.

9

Swedish Lapphunds are highly trainable and excel in various canine sports such as agility and obedience, thanks to their quick learning ability and eagerness to please their handlers.

10

These dogs are known for their sociable and friendly demeanor, making them excellent family pets. They thrive on human interaction and are particularly good with children, showcasing their gentle and loving nature.

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Breed Characteristics

Good with Children
4/5
Good with Other Dogs
4/5
Shedding
4/5
Grooming
3/5
Drooling
2/5
Coat Length
3/5
Good with Strangers
4/5
Playfulness
4/5
Protectiveness
3/5
Trainability
4/5
Energy
4/5
Barking
4/5

Physical Characteristics

Life Expectancy
12-14 years
Height
Male: 41-51 cm
Female: 41-51 cm
Weight
Male: 14-21 kg
Female: 14-21 kg
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