The Finnish Lapphund was developed north of the Arctic Circle by the semi-nomadic Sami people of Lapland. The breed’s profuse double coat enabled it to live and work and outdoors in a region of extremely cold and harsh weather. Over hundreds of years the Sami culture evolved into a more sedentary one focused on their reindeer herds. Their dogs likewise made the shift from hunters to herders who helped control and protect the precious herds. The adoption of the snowmobile in modern times to control the reindeer led to a decrease in the Lapphunds’ value in their original regard but they retain their strong herding instincts and are very popular family pets in Scandinavia. When working, they are driven, noisy, and agile. When interacting with people they are calm, affectionate, and submissive and their sweet personalities are reflected in their expressive, teddy-bear like faces. Their thick, double coats come in a variety of shades and colors and needs regular brushing.
Each AKC approved purebred breed has its own national club. The mission of these “parent breed clubs” is to improve and preserve a particular breed by advancing knowledge about its history, its health and care requirements and by assuring that the breed’s form and function remain true to its historical physical type and character: A Dalmatian, for instance, should be athletic and have a natural affinity for working with horses. A Fox Terrier should have the right body size and shape, and a drive to go after vermin.
Pet owners, breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and others with a special love for a breed, join the parent breed club to meet like-minded enthusiasts and to support the club’s mission.
The national parent breed club is the first place for the public to go to learn about a breed or find a knowledgeable, experienced breeder.
Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
