Lapponian Herder
Quick Summary
Intelligent and hardworking herding dog ideal for active owners in cooler climates. Best suited for experienced handlers who can provide adequate exercise and mental stimulation.
Contents
Weight Range
70-70 lbs
♂ Male: 70-70 lbs
♀ Female: 70-70 lbs
Height Range
46-51 inches
♂ Male: 18-20"
♀ Female: 18-20"
Life Expectancy
10-14 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #85
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Foundation Stock Service
Originally bred for Developed in Lapland during the 20th century, these dogs served Finnish and Swedish Sami people as reindeer herders and watchdogs in the Arctic region
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 18"-20" |
| Female Height | 18"-20" |
| Male Weight | 70-70 lbs |
| Female Weight | 70-70 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 2/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($1000-$2000), supplies, and medical checks. Monthly expenses cover premium food, preventive care, and grooming supplies. Regular veterinary care and potential health issues add to long-term costs.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Displays keen intelligence and strong herding instincts combined with a friendly, energetic temperament. Shows natural protective instincts while maintaining good social behavior with family. Requires early socialization and consistent training.
Social Needs
Highly social breed requiring regular family interaction and companionship. Generally good with other dogs when properly socialized. Can tolerate short periods alone but prefers company and engagement in family activities.
Breed Overview
Lapponian Herders are medium-sized Nordic dogs with distinctive thick double coats suited for harsh Arctic conditions. Their strong, muscular build combines agility with endurance, featuring pricked ears and a curved tail carried over the back. Alert and keen-eyed, they display the classic spitz-type appearance with a wedge-shaped head and deep chest, embodying their herding heritage through both physical form and attentive demeanor.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent herding abilities
- ✓ Loyal family companion
- ✓ Intelligent and trainable
- ✓ Good with children
Cons
- ✗ High exercise needs
- ✗ Strong herding instinct
- ✗ Not suited for hot climates
- ✗ Requires experienced owner
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Friendly, Energetic, Intelligent |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Eager to Please |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise including herding activities, long walks, and mental stimulation games. Activity intensity should be moderate to high, with a mix of physical exercise and problem-solving tasks to satisfy both body and mind.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 2-3 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention needed for weight management and protein content. Consider supplements for joint health and coat maintenance.
Feed high-quality protein-rich diet appropriate for active working breeds. Daily intake should be 2-3 cups of premium dry food, divided into two meals. Adjust portions based on activity level and weight maintenance needs.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adapts well to rural or suburban settings with adequate space for movement. Thrives in homes with fenced yards, requiring protection from extreme heat. Best suited for cooler climates due to thick coat.
Requires medium to large living space with secure outdoor area. Adapts well to rural or suburban environments. Needs room to move and exercise freely. Fenced yard highly recommended for safety and exercise.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Finnish herders developed these dogs in Lapland to assist with reindeer herding. Their unique combination of stamina, intelligence, and cold weather adaptation made them invaluable to the Sami people's traditional way of life.
Historical Purpose
Developed in Lapland during the 20th century, these dogs served Finnish and Swedish Sami people as reindeer herders and watchdogs in the Arctic region.
Fun Fact
These dogs can instinctively herd reindeer without any formal training, using their natural abilities.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization crucial for balanced temperament.