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Swedish Lapphund: A Glimpse into Scandinavia's Charming Herding Breed

Swedish Lapphund Dog running on a beach with other dog during sunset

 

Introduction

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Scandinavia, the Swedish Lapphund stands as a beacon of charm and utility in the world of canine breeds. With their roots firmly entrenched in the northern regions of Sweden, this breed has earned a reputation for being an excellent herding companion and a beloved family pet. In this comprehensive piece, we will delve into the Swedish Lapphund's history, its distinctive traits, and explore some intriguing comparisons and insights related to this breed.


Breed History

The Swedish Lapphund, also known as the Lapphund or Swedish Lapponian Dog, traces its lineage to the indigenous Sámi people of Northern Sweden. These dogs were originally bred for herding reindeer, a vital livelihood for the Sámi. Their precise origin is shrouded in the mists of time, but it's believed that they share common ancestors with other Lapphunds, such as the Finnish Lapphund.
Over the centuries, the Swedish Lapphund's role evolved from herding reindeer to assisting in various tasks like guarding, hunting, and serving as a beloved companion. Their intelligence, adaptability, and loyalty made them a treasured presence in Sámi households.


Breed Group

The Swedish Lapphund is classified under the Herding Group by major kennel clubs, including the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the United Kennel Club (UKC). This group includes breeds known for their innate ability to control and move livestock, making them indispensable for centuries to farmers and herders.


Breed Size

Swedish Lapphunds are a small to medium-sized breed. They typically stand between 41 to 51 centimetres tall at the shoulder and weigh anywhere from 11 to 16 Kilogrammes. This moderate size is well-suited to their historical roles as herding dogs.


Breed Coat, Colour, and Appearance

The Swedish Lapphund boasts a dense double coat that provides insulation against the harsh Nordic climate. Their outer coat is long, straight, and slightly coarse, while the undercoat is soft and insulating. Common coat colours include black, brown, and grey, often accompanied by distinctive markings and a white blaze on the chest.

Their appearance is characterised by a friendly expression, erect ears, and a curled tail that rests over their back. Their almond-shaped eyes are dark and expressive, reflecting their alert and intelligent nature.


What is the difference between Swedish and Finnish Lapphund?

The Swedish Lapphund shares a striking resemblance with the Finnish Lapphund, which isn't surprising given their shared ancestry and geographical proximity. However, several key differences set them apart.

  • Country of Origin: As the names suggest, Swedish Lapphunds originate from Sweden, while Finnish Lapphunds hail from Finland.
  • Size: Swedish Lapphunds are slightly larger, both in height and weight, compared to their Finnish counterparts.
  • Coat Colour: While both breeds exhibit similar coat colours, Swedish Lapphunds are more commonly seen in black, brown, or grey coats with white markings, whereas Finnish Lapphunds are more likely to have solid-coloured coats.
  • Tail: The tail carriage differs, with Swedish Lapphunds often having a curled tail that rests over their back, while Finnish Lapphunds typically have a plume-like tail that falls to the side.

What Scandinavian dog looks like a corgi?

The Swedish Vallhund, often referred to as the "Viking Dog" or "Swedish Corgi," is the Scandinavian dog breed that bears a resemblance to the Corgi. These small herding dogs have short legs, a long body, and erect ears, reminiscent of the Welsh Corgi. However, their origins and historical roles differ, with the Vallhund being a cattle-herding breed from Sweden.


How rare is a Swedish Lapphund?

Swedish Lapphunds are relatively rare outside of their home country. While they have gained popularity as family pets and show dogs in some regions, they are not as common as more popular breeds. Breed enthusiasts and dedicated breeders continue to work towards preserving and promoting this unique breed's heritage.


What is Sweden's national dog?

Sweden does not have an officially recognised national dog breed. However, the Swedish Lapphund holds a special place in the hearts of many Swedes due to its historical significance and loyal companionship.


Conclusion

The Swedish Lapphund, with its rich history, herding heritage, and charming appearance, is a testament to the enduring bond between humans and their canine companions. While it shares similarities with its Finnish counterpart, it has carved its own niche in the hearts of dog enthusiasts worldwide. As Sweden's national dog or not, the Swedish Lapphund stands proudly as a symbol of Scandinavian heritage and the enduring companionship of this remarkable breed.

 

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