Lapponian Herder vs Keeshond
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Lapponian Herder
Foundation Stock Service
Keeshond
Non-Sporting Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Lapponian Herder 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.
Keeshond Overview
Keeshonds are distinctive spitz-type dogs featuring a luxurious double coat in silver and black, with distinctive 'spectacles' around their expressive eyes. Their fox-like face, coupled with a proud, plumed tail and thick ruff around the neck, creates an instantly recognizable silhouette. Medium-sized and well-proportioned, they carry themselves with confidence and grace.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Lapponian Herders are less energetic than Keeshonds, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Lapponian Herders require less grooming attention compared to Keeshonds.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Lapponian Herders tend to be more reserved with strangers than Keeshonds.
- Trainability: Keeshonds may be slightly easier to train due to their Keeshond's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Keeshonds adapt better to apartment living, while Lapponian Herders typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Lapponian Herder and Keeshond, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Lapponian Herder | Keeshond |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 10-14 years | 12-15 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Foundation Stock Service | Non-Sporting Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Lapponian Herder | Keeshond |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 18-20 inches 46-51 cm | 17-18 inches 43-46 cm |
| Weight | 70-70 lbs 32-32 kg | 35-45 lbs 16-20 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Seasonal | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Lapponian Herder | Keeshond |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Friendly, Energetic, Intelligent | Friendly, Lively, Outgoing |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Lapponian Herder | Keeshond |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Lapponian Herder Temperament
The Lapponian Herder is known for being friendly, energetic, intelligent, making them better suited for homes without young children. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to different lifestyles, though they still need regular exercise.
Keeshond Temperament
The Keeshond is characterized by being friendly, lively, outgoing, which makes them great companions for families. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They generally welcome strangers, making them sociable companions rather than protective guardians. Their moderate energy level makes them versatile companions that can adapt to your activity level, though regular exercise is still important.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Lapponian Herder and Keeshond, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Lapponian Herder
Rating: 3/5
Keeshond
Rating: 5/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Lapponian Herder
Rating: 3/5
Keeshond
Rating: 5/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Lapponian Herder
Rating: 3/5
Keeshond
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Lapponian Herder
Rating: 1/5
Keeshond
Rating: 1/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Lapponian Herder
Rating: 3/5
Keeshond
Rating: 4/5
Care & Maintenance
Lapponian Herder Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Lapponian Herders require moderate daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Lapponian Herders require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
Keeshond Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Keeshonds need regular daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Keeshonds require significant grooming attention. This includes brushing several times per week to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is typically necessary.
Health & Lifespan
Lapponian Herder Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Bloat
- Allergies
Keeshond Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Patellar Luxation
- Heart Issues
- Eye Problems
Pros & Cons
Lapponian Herder
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
Keeshond
Pros
- Excellent family companion
- Good with children
- Intelligent and trainable
- Alert watchdog
- Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
- Heavy shedding
- Regular grooming required
- Can be vocal
- Needs regular exercise
- May be stubborn
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Lapponian Herder and Keeshond, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.