Overview
The Lapponian Herder, or Lapinporokoira, is the working herder of Finnish Lapland, driving reindeer across long distances in deep cold. It is a medium-sized spitz with a shorter, denser coat than the Finnish Lapphund, usually black or dark brown with lighter markings, and a leaner, more athletic frame. It is rare in the UK.
The breed is energetic, intelligent and hard-working, with the spitz tendency to think for itself and the herder's tendency to bark while doing so. It bonds well with people, enjoys company and does best when it has a daily task that uses both body and brain.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour and a half a day is a realistic minimum for an adult, split into two walks with real content. These dogs are bred to run all day in snow and a slow lap of the park will leave plenty in the tank. Running alongside a bike, long hikes and herding-style games all suit them.
They thrive in cold and dislike heat. In summer, walk early and late and swap distance for mental work when it is warm.
On the walk
- Barking: The breed drives reindeer by voice and uses it on walks too: at other dogs, at excitement, at anything worth commenting on. Expect noise and reward quiet when you get it.
- Herding: Joggers, cyclists and groups of dogs may be circled and chivvied. Call the dog in early and give it a task to redirect the instinct.
- Recall: Good when trained, as the breed is cooperative by nature. Spitz independence shows when something interesting appears, so proof it before trusting it in the open.
- Other dogs: Sociable in general and good in a group, with a tendency to try to manage the others. Keep an eye on it with shy dogs.
Tips for professional walkers
- Bring a toy or a ball on a rope. A Lapponian Herder that has a job to do barks less.
- Plan hilly, varied routes in winter and shaded, shorter ones in summer.
- Teach a quiet cue early in your relationship and reward it generously.
- Check the dense coat for ticks after walks through heather or bracken.
What to ask the owner
- Does the dog bark at other dogs on walks, and how do you want that handled?
- Is recall solid, and where do you usually let the dog run free?
- How does the dog cope with warm weather, and when do you cut walks short?