Lapponian Reindeer Dog

Lapponian Reindeer: Typical Northern Look 

“Like a mix between a Border Collie and a German Shepherd” – that’s a layperson’s first impression of a Lapponian Reindeer Dog. However, a trained eye will also notice similarities with other northern breeds like the Alaskan Malamute. The thick coat of the Finnish Lapphund can be misleading, but the short-haired Lapponian Reindeer Dog is one of its closest relatives. 

So, what does it look like? This slick, sporty dog of the spitz type stands around 51cm tall at the withers for males and around 46cm for females. It weighs approximately 25kg, though the weight is not strictly defined in breed standards. The dog’s body length exceeds its height by about 10%. Its ears stand erect and it carries its longer-haired rod curved when in motion and hanging down when relaxed. 

The fur colour can vary from black to various shades of grey and brown, often with white markings on the neck, chest, and paws. The breed’s coat consists of two layers: a dense, fine undercoat and a stiffer, longer top coat. 

The Lapponian Reindeer is Finland’s Herding Dog 

As mentioned earlier, the Lapponian Reindeer Dog shares much in common with the Finnish Lapphund. Both breeds’ ancestors served the Sami people, originally referred to as “Lapps” after their homeland Lapland, as hunting and guard dogs. With reindeer herding being crucial for many Sami, these dogs evolved alongside them, eventually becoming skilled herders as reindeer domestication increased. Smart and agile, their ancestors excelled in this role. 

In the early stages of breeding, the focus was more on the dogs’ character and herding abilities rather than appearance, resulting in a lack of a uniform look for a long time. It wasn’t until the mid-20th century that initial standards were developed. By then, the Lapponian Reindeer Dog and the Finnish Lapphund were still considered one breed.

The Lapponian Reindeer Dog only gained its separate recognition in December 1966. However, the breed’s role as a reindeer herder has declined over time due to the advent of snowmobiles. Today, it’s little known outside Scandinavia but remains cherished by many dog lovers in its homeland as a family companion and, in some cases, a faithful working dog. 

Similar Breeds to Consider 

If you like the Lapponian Reindeer Dog, these breeds might also interest you: 

• Siberian Husky 
• Pomsky 
• Alaskan Malamute 
• Greenland Dog 
• Alaskan Husky 

The Lapponian Reindeer is a Healthy Breed 

Known for being robust and resilient, this ancient breed has few hereditary conditions. When searching for this dog, support reputable breeders who prioritise the health, type, and character of the parent dogs.

Due to the Nordic-adapted fur, avoid overexertion in temperatures above 15°C. In summer, it’s best to plan longer exercise sessions for early mornings and late evenings. The average lifespan of this breed is 12 to 14 years. 

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Feeding Your Lapponian Reindeer Dog: Food for Fitness 

The Lapponian Reindeer Dog is a muscular, active dog. Adjust its food intake according to its physique and activity level. Packaging guidelines can only serve as a reference. Monitor the dog’s waistline regularly to prevent weight gain. Puppies should be fed up to four times a day, whereas an adult Lapponian Reindeer Dog will typically need two meals daily. 

Important: Let your dog rest after its meal – always feed it after a walk. Quantity isn’t everything; ensure that your dog food is high-quality with meat as the main ingredient and minimal grain. This applies to both dry and wet food.

Satisfy your dog’s chewing needs with regular dried chews like beef ears. Remember to account for these in the daily amount to prevent overweight. Opt for sugar-free treats like dried meat bites or snacks with additional benefits like dental care snacks.

Your dog should always have access to fresh drinking water – be sure to carry water during outings, especially on longer trips. 

Caring for the Lapponian Reindeer: A Hairy Task? 

The Lapponian Reindeer Dog sheds a lot, especially during the bi-annual coat change when it sheds a tremendous amount. Regular brushing helps minimise shedding around the home.

Dirt should be brushed out once dry. Bathe your dog only when necessary, and not more than every few months, using mild dog shampoo. Regularly check its eyes, ears, and nails and tend to them with appropriate cleaners and nail scissors as needed.

Nails might need more frequent trimming if the dog primarily walks on soft surfaces. 

Outdoor All-Rounder 

All dogs love the great outdoors, but the Lapponian Reindeer Dog takes it to another level. Once fully grown and trained, it makes a fantastic partner for jogging, cycling, or horse riding – and of course, long, extensive hikes.

Dog sports can also be enjoyable with this breed: Agility, Dog Dancing, obedience, nose work or working as a rescue dog are often excellent fits. Explore what activities bring you and your Lapponian Reindeer Dog the most joy.

Naturally, the breed is also suited for herding duties. Ensure to introduce regular rest periods to prevent over-excitement and maintain a balanced demeanour. 

Is the Lapponian Reindeer Dog Right for Me? 

Are you sporty, enjoy outdoor activities in all weather, and have daily time for such endeavours with your four-legged friend? Also, do you have some dog training experience as well as a house or large ground-level apartment in a rural area? If so, a Lapponian Reindeer Dog could be the perfect companion for you.

This breed suits families, even those with small children, and usually gets along well with other pets. It can sleep outdoors, especially enjoying it in summer, but thrives best with close family contact. The Lapponian Reindeer Dog can also serve as a guard dog, alerting you with barks to anything unfamiliar. Consider its tendency to bark before deciding on this lively herding breed. 

Planning holidays in advance is crucial: research potential dog sitters or dog hotels early on and get to know them well before entrusting them with your pet. However, the Lapponian Reindeer Dog, if well-behaved, can be an excellent companion for hiking holidays in cooler regions – a good way to spend relaxing days together.

This breed prefers cooler climates, so it’s best not to travel to hot areas and not to choose a Nordic dog if you live in one. 

Before purchasing, consider the costs associated with owning a Lapponian Reindeer Dog. Besides the purchase price from a reputable breeder and potentially a basic kit including bowls, lead and collar or harness, blankets, transport boxes and grooming essentials like brushes, dog shampoo, and nail scissors, there are ongoing expenses.

These include high-quality food with a high meat content and snacks, vet costs – a yearly check-up and necessary vaccinations at a min. – plus dog tax and liability insurance. Research if a health insurance policy for your dog makes sense. 

Where Can I Find a Lapponian Reindeer Dog? 

You’ve decided to welcome a Lapponian Reindeer Dog into your life and can provide everything it needs for a happy, healthy life? Congratulations! However, one challenge remains: Lapponian Reindeer Dogs are quite rare outside Finland and Scandinavia. Reach out to Nordic dog clubs for potential breeders to make first contacts. If breeders abroad are an option, read up on adopting a puppy from abroad and the entry requirements. 

Choosing a puppy from a responsible breeder is crucial for supporting healthy and ethical breeding practices. If obtaining a puppy of this breed seems too challenging, consider other breeds or rescue dogs. The Finnish Lapphund, while also not very common outside Scandinavia, is more available than the Lapponian Reindeer Dog and is quite similar. 

Finding a fully grown Lapponian Reindeer Dog outside Scandinavia is mostly down to luck. Nordic dog clubs may assist or provide information on mixed breeds with similar traits. Stay open to mixed breeds from rescue centres or other Nordic dogs looking for new homes.

Learn about the dog’s history before adoption and, if adopting from abroad, try to get to know the dog as much as possible beforehand – ideally, you should meet to assess your compatibility. 

We wish you much delight with your Lapponian Reindeer Dog!