Lapponian Herder
🧠 Temperament & character
The Lapponian Herder is calm, willing and energetic, while being friendly and exceptionally teachable. He is a hardy, balanced working dog that works closely with people and can think independently in doing so. With his family he is affectionate and sociable, but can be watchful and initially reserved towards strangers. As a herding dog he tends towards a certain fondness for barking.
📜 Origin & history
The Lapponian Herder was bred by the Sami in the north of Finland to drive reindeer herds and hold them together. Unlike the plush Finnish Lapphund, it arose in part with the crossing-in of working dogs and has shorter hair that is better adapted to the work. In 1966 the breed was officially recognised. To this day it is used in Lapland as a reindeer dog.
✂️ Grooming, care & training
The Lapponian Herder's medium-length, straight double coat is weatherproof and easy to care for; regular brushing is enough, more during the moult. As a hardy working dog he needs plenty of exercise and meaningful tasks to be balanced. He is clever, cooperative and eager to learn, which is why he is easy to train and suited to dog sports. Without sufficient occupation he can become restless.
🩺 Health
The Lapponian Herder is a robust working breed with a life expectancy of around 10 to 14 years. Occasionally hip dysplasia occurs, which is why reputable breeders have the hips X-rayed. Attention is also paid to eye health and sufficient genetic diversity, since the population is small. All in all he is considered a healthy, long-lived dog.
🏡 Who is this breed right for?
The Lapponian Herder suits active people who are looking for a work-loving, teachable dog and can offer him enough exercise. Thanks to his friendly nature he is also suitable for committed beginners, provided they keep him occupied. Ideal is a house with a garden and access to nature; for a pure city apartment he is less made. In Switzerland he is rare, but an interesting companion for athletically active owners.