Swedish Lapphund
Also known as Svensk Lapphund · Lapphund Suedois · Schwedischer Lapphund · Perro Sueco de Laponia
Sweden, Nordic Watchdogs and Herders
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 43–51 cm
- Weight
- 17–21 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Friendly
- Intelligent
- Alert
- Eager to please
- Vocal
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Swedish Lapphund
The Swedish Lapphund is a medium-sized Spitz-type herding and guarding dog from northern Sweden, traditionally used by the Sami people to herd reindeer and guard the home. It has a sturdy, compact body, a thick double coat, pricked ears and a tail curled over the back. Coats are usually black or brown, sometimes with small white markings.
Temperament
Friendly, intelligent and alert, usually good with family and fairly sociable. It is watchful and may bark to announce visitors. It is eager to please and responds well to positive training.
Exercise
Needs a good daily walk plus play and training. It enjoys outdoor activity in cooler weather and benefits from mental tasks.
Grooming
The thick double coat is shed heavily twice a year, and daily brushing helps in those periods. Between moults a couple of brushings a week is enough.
Care & wellbeing
Keep weight lean and avoid vigorous exercise in hot weather, as the thick coat holds heat. Early training helps manage barking.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 19 kg adult- Water
- 760 ml–1.1 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,020 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Swedish Lapphund
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A spitz-type herding dog from Lapland, kept by the Sami people to herd reindeer and guard the home. It is friendly, hardy and alert, with a thick double coat that sheds heavily at moulting time.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Hip dysplasia
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Eye tests
- DNA test for PRA
- Hip scores
Not every Swedish Lapphund is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Swedish Lapphund right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Swedish Lapphund get?
Adult Swedish Lapphunds typically stand about 43–51 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 17–21 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Swedish Lapphunds live?
Typically 12–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Swedish Lapphund need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Swedish Lapphund need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Swedish Lapphunds easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Swedish Lapphunds shed?
Quite a lot. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control — expect more around spring and autumn.
Are Swedish Lapphunds good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Swedish Lapphund live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Swedish Lapphunds have?
The breed can be prone to progressive retinal atrophy (pra), hip dysplasia. Not every Swedish Lapphund is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Sweden
- Type
- Nordic Watchdogs and Herders
- Internationally recognised
- 1955