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Shedding Characteristics of the Finnish Lapphund: A Double Coat for All Seasons

Finnish Lapphund enjoying walks on the snow covered road

 

The Finnish Lapphund boasts a thick double coat that serves as both insulation against cold climates and protection from harsh weather. Understanding their shedding characteristics is essential for grooming and maintaining their coat, especially if you're considering bringing one of these charming dogs into your home.


Double Coat Composition

  • Undercoat: The soft and dense undercoat provides insulation, keeping them warm in cold temperatures.
  • Topcoat: The outer layer, consisting of longer, straight guard hairs, offers protection from rain and dirt.

This dual-layered coat helps them adapt to the extreme cold of their native Lapland. However, it also means they shed moderately year-round.


Seasonal Shedding

While Finnish Lapphunds do not experience the dramatic seasonal "blowouts" seen in some breeds, they do undergo a noticeable increase in shedding during the spring and autumn. This is often referred to as "blowing their coat." During these transitional periods, they shed their undercoat to adapt to changing temperatures. This shedding phase can be more pronounced and may require more frequent grooming to manage the loose fur.


Regular Grooming Is Key

To manage their shedding and maintain a healthy coat, regular grooming is essential. Here are some grooming tips for Finnish Lapphund owners:

  • Brushing: Brush your Lappie at least a few times a week to remove loose fur and prevent mats. A slicker brush or undercoat rake is particularly effective for reaching the dense undercoat.
  • Baths: Bathing your Lapphund as needed (usually every few months) helps keep their coat clean and reduces shedding.
  • Blowing the Coat: During the shedding seasons, consider using a high-velocity dryer or a specialised shedding tool to remove the loose undercoat more efficiently.
  • Trimming Nails and Cleaning Ears: Regularly trim their nails and clean their ears to maintain overall hygiene.
  • Diet and Hydration: Ensure your Lappie has a balanced diet and stays well-hydrated, as nutrition can influence coat health.


Allergy Considerations

While no dog is entirely hypoallergenic, Finnish Lapphunds are considered a relatively hypoallergenic breed because they produce fewer allergenic proteins in their saliva and skin oils compared to some other breeds. However, it's essential to note that allergies can still be triggered by dog dander, urine, and saliva, so individuals with allergies should spend time with a Finnish Lapphund before committing to ownership.

 

In summary, the Finnish Lapphund's shedding characteristics reflect their adaptation to cold climates and their double coat composition. While they shed moderately year-round, they experience more pronounced shedding during seasonal transitions. Regular grooming and attention to their coat's needs are key to keeping your Lappie's fur in good condition and managing shedding effectively.

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