Lapponian Herder

The nature of the Lapponian Herder allows not only to perform the service’s duties but also to be an excellent companion. It can color the life of a single person and a large and friendly family with a herd of children. It is a very sociable breed; the friendliness of the Lopar shepherd oozes out of it. It does not show aggression to strangers and adores children.

Breed Photos

Origin History

The Lapponian Herder was first mentioned in 1673 in the book “History of the Nordic Peoples”. The author Olaf Mangus describes in detail the life of the ancient Finnish people. The illustrations in the book depict the ancestors of the Finnish Lapphund, the Spitz dogs. Household chores, guarding reindeer when moving them to fenced pastures – the Lapponian Herder’s duties in those days cannot be overestimated; their help was invaluable. In the twentieth century, Lapponian Herders were on the verge of extinction. Finnish cynologists and dog breeders decided to preserve this breed at all costs. In 1970, the Lappish dog was recognized by the International Canine Federation. The Lapland Herder is considered one of the best Nordic dogs; the people of Finland highly appreciate this breed’s dogs.

Appearance

The Lapponian Herder is not very tall in the legs, of medium size. The owners of a pointed muzzle and widely set pointed ears. The neck is short but strong and powerful; the back is wide, the chest is well developed.

The eyes are dark, medium-sized, and narrow-set, the owner of an intelligent and perceptive gaze. The coat is thick, shiny with a fluffy undercoat. The tail is of medium length, in the resting state is down, in the excited state is kept up in the form of a sickle. Black dogs with red markings are valued above gray and red.

Character

The nature of the Lapponian Herder allows not only to perform the service’s duties but also to be an excellent companion. It can color the life of a single person and a large and friendly family with a herd of children.

It is a very sociable breed; the friendliness of the Lopar shepherd oozes out of it. It does not show aggression to strangers and adores children.

Easily get along with other animals in the same territory. It is very industrious, trying every way to earn the owner’s favor and do everything to do so. Kind and affectionate, love to spend time with family.

Care

Lapponian Herders like constant “movement,” and it is not recommended to keep them in an urban apartment. The best environment for walking and training are fields and meadows in the countryside. Lovers of long runs, before buying, it is worth thinking about your desire and ability to walk your pet in the fresh air for a long time.

Thick coats fall out twice a year and need care every day during molting. Nobody canceled the rules of hygiene: cut claws, inspect eyes and ears, give special treats for brushing teeth.

Training

Lapponian Herder is a very responsible and executive pupil, easy to learn, tries to please the owner in everything. They are a bit fidgety and can often be distracted by everything around them. They like praise and good food. It is a sin not to give a tasty treat for a job well done.

Losing a reindeer dog’s trust is fraught with loss of respect for the owner and complete disobedience. Be careful how you train him.

Common Diseases

The breed of Lapponian Herder was bred in the north’s harsh conditions; its representatives have to have robust health to survive. Severe weather conditions and great physical activity have made this dog resistant to various diseases. Dogs of this breed can have hip dysplasia and arthritis, which are hereditary. Remember, the dog must rest after eating to avoid exposing himself to deadly stomach congestion. Lopar reindeer dogs often get ear infections.

Nutrition

Lapponian Herders are unpretentious about food. The harsh northern everyday life has taught them to appreciate food and to eat everything they are offered. But you do not need to feed your dog everything. If you want your dog to be healthy and cheerful, choose the food products wisely. High-quality meat, fish, and poultry should not be cooked. Cooked meat is poorly digested by the body and loses all its nutrients. Do not be afraid; the digestive system of the reindeer dog is prepared for raw food. Do not forget to dilute the diet with vitamin “monsters” – greens, vegetables, and fruits.