Swedish Lapphund

Swedish Lapphunds live 12 to 14 years and are a generally healthy Nordic breed. Hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy occur occasionally. Diabetes mellitus has also been noted in the breed. Source from breeders who test eyes and hips. Routine annual vet visits keep most Swedish Lapphunds healthy throughout their active life.

Your Swedish Lapphund has a thick double coat that needs brushing two to three times a week. Shedding increases heavily during seasonal coat blows, so brush daily during those periods. Bathe every six to eight weeks. Check ears weekly, trim nails monthly, and brush teeth regularly. The coat naturally repels dirt between baths.

Your Swedish Lapphund needs 45 to 60 minutes of active exercise daily. Walks, herding games, and Nordic activities like skijoring suit their stamina and love of cold weather. Mental stimulation through training matters as much as physical activity. Without enough outlet, they become vocal and restless.

Swedish Lapphunds are intelligent and eager to please. They respond well to positive reinforcement and enjoy learning new tasks. Start socialization early. This breed excels in obedience and agility when training stays consistent and fun. They are more cooperative than many Spitz type breeds.

Feed a quality medium breed formula twice daily with measured portions. Adjust calories based on your dog activity level since active dogs need more than lightly exercised pets. Monitor body condition monthly. Fresh water should always be available, especially after exercise.

The Swedish Lapphund is one of Sweden oldest breeds, used by the Sami people for thousands of years to herd and guard reindeer across the Arctic tundra. The breed later transitioned into a companion role as reindeer herding modernized. Swedish breed clubs worked to preserve the breed through the 20th century as numbers declined. The FCI recognized the Swedish Lapphund in 1944. Today the breed remains rare outside Scandinavia.