Swedish Lapphund
Also known as: Svensk Lapphund
The Swedish Lapphund is a medium-sized herding dog originating from Sweden. The Swedish Lapphund comes from Sweden, typically weighs 19–21 kg, and has a double coat coat. Individual Swedish Lapphunds vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- Sweden
- Weight
- 19–21 kg (42–46 lb)
- Height
- Males
- Coat
- double coat
- Colour
- solid black or black with bronze or white markings
- Other names
- Svensk Lapphund
About the Swedish Lapphund
The Swedish Lapphund is a medium-sized herding dog originating from Sweden. It weighs 19-21 kg and stands approximately 42-46 inches tall.
Overview
The Swedish Lapphund ( Swedish : Svensk lapphund ) is a breed of dog of the Spitz type from Sweden , one of three Lapphund breeds developed from a type of dog used by the Sami people for herding and guarding their reindeer. The expression "the black beauty of Norrland" is very often attributed to the Swedish lapphund, which is most likely one of Sweden''s oldest breeds.
Lineage
The breed falls under the mitochondrial DNA sub- clade referred to as d1 that is only found in northern Scandinavia. It is the result of a female wolf-male dog hybridization that occurred post-domestication. Subclade d1 originated "at most 480–3,000 years ago" and is found in all Sami -related breeds: Finnish Lapphund , Swedish Lapphund, Lapponian Herder , Jamthund , Norwegian Elkhound and Hällefors Elkhound . The maternal wolf sequence that contributed to these breeds has not been matched across Eurasia.
Appearance
The Swedish Lapphund is a slightly less than medium-sized breed of spitz-type dog. Dogs stand from 45–51 centimetres (18–20 in) and bitches stand from 40–46 centimetres (16–18 in) . Healthy adults can weigh anywhere from 19–21 kilograms (42–46 lb) according to the breed standard. The Swedish Lapphund has a profuse, weather resistant double coat with a dense undercoat. They usually come in solid black, but may also have bronze or white markings.
Temperament
Like all spitz dogs in general, the Swedish Lapphund demands a stable upbringing and both regular mental and physical stimulation to perform at its best. As a working dog they show their versatility in a number of different fields. Many compete with success in such widely different disciplines as obedience , dog agility trials, working contest, freestyle/heelwork to music, Rally obedience , and blood tracking. The Swedish Lapphund can also participate in herding events. Herding instincts and trainability can be measured at noncompetitive herding tests. Lapphunds exhibiting basic herding instincts can be trained to compete in herding trials.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Swedish Lapphund?
The Swedish Lapphund is a medium-sized Spitz-type dog with a thick, double coat, typically black, brown, or white in color. They have a wedge-shaped head, erect ears, and a bushy tail. Adult Swedish Lapphunds typically weigh between 30-45 kg (66-99 lbs) and stand 45-50 cm (18-20 in) tall at the shoulder.
Is the Swedish Lapphund a good family dog?
The Swedish Lapphund is generally a good family dog, especially for active families with children. They are loyal, intelligent, and affectionate. However, they can be wary of strangers and may require time to warm up to new people. Early socialization and training are essential for a well-adjusted Swedish Lapphund.
What health problems do Swedish Lapphunds have?
Swedish Lapphunds are generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. These include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and allergies. Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing can help identify potential issues early on. Responsible breeding practices can also minimize the risk of inherited health problems.
How much does a Swedish Lapphund puppy cost?
The cost of a Swedish Lapphund puppy can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. On average, a Swedish Lapphund puppy can cost between $800-$1,500 USD. It's essential to research reputable breeders and consider the long-term costs of owning a dog, including food, veterinary care, and training.
Where do Swedish Lapphunds come from?
The Swedish Lapphund comes from Sweden. The breed developed there before spreading to dog fanciers worldwide.
Related breeds
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Swedish Lapphund, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.