Finnish Lapphund Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Finnish Lapphund
The Finnish Lapphund is a hardy, medium-sized spitz breed developed by the Sami people of northern Scandinavia to herd reindeer in harsh Arctic conditions. Profusely coated with a dense, weatherproof double coat in many colors, it has a friendly, alert expression, prick ears, and a curled tail. Intelligent, submissive, and eager to please, the Finnish Lapphund is more biddable than many spitz breeds and forms strong, affectionate bonds with its family, including children. Alert and quick to bark, it retains a herding dog's watchfulness and vocal tendencies. Calm indoors yet active outdoors, it is a versatile companion that enjoys activity and family involvement, thriving with owners who can provide exercise, grooming, and companionship.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
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Browse all puppiesWhere this breed shines
- Friendly, biddable, and more trainable than many spitz breeds
- Excellent with children and gentle with family
- Hardy, weatherproof coat and generally robust health
Things to consider
- Dense double coat sheds heavily and needs regular grooming
- Alert nature makes it inclined to bark
- Needs regular exercise and mental engagement
History
The Finnish Lapphund descends from ancient herding and hunting dogs kept by the Sami people of Lapland to work reindeer across northern Finland, Sweden, and Norway. The breed was formally standardized in Finland in the mid-20th century, with the modern standard established in 1945 and later revised. It is recognized by the FCI and gained AKC full recognition in 2011, and it is one of Finland's most popular native breeds.
Temperament
Finnish Lapphunds are friendly, intelligent, and eager to please, with a submissive, biddable nature that makes them more trainable than many spitz breeds. They are affectionate and gentle with families and children, alert and watchful, and inclined to bark, reflecting their herding background. Adaptable and calm indoors, they enjoy activity and thrive on being part of the family.
Questions to ask a Finnish Lapphund breeder
- Are the parents screened for hip and elbow dysplasia?
- Has the line been tested for progressive retinal atrophy (prcd-PRA)?
- What is the temperament of the parents around children and other pets?
Health considerations to discuss
Progressive retinal atrophy. DNA testing of parents helps avoid this inherited eye disease.
Hip and elbow dysplasia. Joint screening of breeding stock is recommended.
Hereditary cataracts. Eye examinations of parents help reduce the risk of inherited cataracts.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: American Kennel Club - Finnish Lapphund · Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Finnish Lapphund litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Finnish Lapphund puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Finnish Lapphund listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How can I tell if a Finnish Lapphund breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.