Overview
The Swedish Lapphund is a slightly smaller-than-medium spitz from Sweden. It is one of three Lapphund breeds that grew out of dogs used by the Sami for herding and guarding reindeer.
It is often called the black beauty of Norrland and is likely among Sweden's oldest breeds.
History
The Lapphund came from the dogs the Sami people used to herd and guard reindeer. Its DNA belongs to a mitochondrial lineage found only in northern Scandinavia, shared with other Sami-related breeds such as the Finnish Lapphund and the Norwegian Elkhound.
That lineage includes a female wolf ancestor from after domestication, and it is thought to be at most a few thousand years old.
Appearance
A slightly less than medium spitz. Males stand 45 to 51 cm and females 40 to 46 cm, and adults weigh around 19 to 21 kg.
The profuse, weather-resistant double coat has a dense undercoat. It is usually solid black, sometimes with bronze or white markings.
Temperament
The Lapphund is a versatile, willing working dog that wants a stable upbringing and regular mental and physical stimulation. It is attentive and keen to work with its owner.
Many take part in obedience, agility, rally, freestyle, tracking and herding.
Care and exercise
It needs daily exercise and mental tasks, and does well in dog sports. Brush the thick coat a couple of times a week, more during seasonal shedding.
Firm, consistent and positive training suits it well.
