Swedish Lapphund

Swedish Lapphunds go back over 7,000 years, making them one of the oldest European dog breeds. Back in the day, they hung with the Sami people in Lapland, helping out with hunting, herding reindeer, and keeping an eye on their homes, hence why their loud, yodel-like noises come in handy as a watchdog. Despite their epic history, these fluffy friends weren't officially recognized as a separate breed until 1944. Today, these versatile pups are hard-working and cherished companions.

While their vocal nature and herding instincts might require some management, patient owners will find a loving and energetic friend in a Swedish Lapphund. Originally working pups who herded reindeer and kept an eye out for trouble, they still have tons of get-up-and-go. They’re head over paws for exercise and mentally stimulating activities, so their owner needs to be able to keep up. That means active owners who love long walks or hikes, training sessions, and playtime are a perfect match. Ideally suited for an active rural or suburban home with older kids, these loyal canines can adapt quickly with consistent exercise.

Swedish Lapphunds are exercise fiends, which means an hour a day of play is the bare minimum, even in less-than-ideal weather. They're built for chilly weather, so a little rain or snow won't dampen their spirits. During the summer heat, though, swap those midday walks for early-morning outings and late-night strolls to keep your pup cool and comfy. They’re smart as a whip too, so they need plenty of mental stimulation. Get ready for some treat-filled training sessions and puzzle-solving fun with these four-legged companions. A bored Lapphund is a vocal one, so keeping their minds and bodies active is key to a happy (and quiet) home.

Swedish Lapphunds are surprisingly adaptable when it comes to space; they don't need a sprawling mansion. However, these vocal pups are better suited for a rural or suburban home to give neighbors in busy city apartments some peace and quiet. Their thick coats make them crave cooler climates, so crank down the central heating—they'd rather cuddle up by the fireplace than be toasty indoors.

Their thick double coat needs some TLC to stay healthy and tangle-free. Regular brushing a couple of times a week (even more during shedding season) with a slicker brush and an undercoat rake is key to keeping this furry friend silky smooth. A well-groomed Lapphund is a happy Lapphund.

Swedish Lapphunds by nature are very eager to please, which makes training a breeze. They can sometimes channel a strong sense of independence, so staying ahead of the curve in the canine curriculum is key. Positive reinforcement is the name of the game. Yummy treats, fun toys, and plenty of praise will have your Lapphund learning leaps and bounds. These brainy pups excel in activities that challenge their sharp minds, so consider mantrailing mysteries, rally races, and sniffing out secrets in scent work-based games. Their curious noses—inherited from their herding-focused ancestors—might lead them on mini-hunting adventures, so mastering a reliable recall is a must-have skill for these sometimes stubborn dogs.

These playful pups are bursting with energy, perfect for active families who love spending time outdoors together. They can be fantastic companions for families with older children, whereas their herding instincts, vocal nature, and high energy levels might be a bit too overwhelming for little ones. The good news is they’re whiz kids when it comes to training, so mastering commands will be no problem. However, like most smart pups, they can have a bit of a stubborn streak, so remember to pack your patience. With proper training and supervision, though, a Swedish Lapphund can become a cherished member of the family.

The cost of a Swedish Lapphund from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.