Overview
The Swedish Lapphund is Sweden's oldest native breed, developed by the Sami people to herd and guard reindeer in the far north. It is a classic spitz: pricked ears, curled tail and a dense double coat, almost always solid black or dark brown. In Britain it is very rare, with a small, dedicated following.
Lapphunds are cheerful, affectionate and alert, and they use their voice freely. Barking was part of the herding job, and most dogs still announce visitors, other dogs and anything interesting. They are intelligent and biddable, with a bit of spitz independence underneath.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour to an hour and a quarter a day, split across two outings, suits most adults. Mix lead walking with free running and a few training games; the breed enjoys learning and will get bored on a straight trudge.
The coat is built for Arctic winters, so British summers are the hard part. On warm days keep walks early, short and shady, and offer water often. In winter the dog comes alive and will happily take longer outings.
On the walk
- Voice: Lapphunds bark when excited, when herding and when they want your attention. Teach a quiet cue early and avoid routes past reactive dogs behind fences.
- Recall: Usually good; the breed is attentive and keen to work with its person. Spitz curiosity can still take it off after a scent or a squirrel, so proof it before trusting it.
- Herding: Some will try to round up other dogs, cyclists or joggers. Watch for circling and nipping at heels and redirect it.
- Heat: Overheats quickly. Watch for heavy panting and a dog that wants to lie in every shadow.
Tips for professional walkers
- Carry water and plan shade in summer; this dog belongs in the snow and knows it.
- Use training games on the walk to burn off the mental energy that otherwise comes out as barking.
- Brush the coat after muddy walks and expect heavy shedding twice a year.
- Keep the dog from herding other dogs in a group; redirect with a recall and a reward.
What to ask the owner
- How much does the dog bark on walks, and is there a cue that stops it?
- Does it try to herd people or dogs, and how do you want that handled?
- At what temperature do you want walks shortened, and does the dog have a cooling coat?