Comparison: Lapponian Herder and Swedish Lapphund

Lapponian Herder and Swedish Lapphund are marked as similar in our database. The table compares only the data we have on the breeds.

Lapponian Herder
Photo: Patrik Fors, CC BY-SA 3.0, source
Swedish Lapphund
Photo: Bjørn Roger Larsen, Public domain, source
Lapponian HerderSwedish Lapphund
FCI group5. Spitz and primitive types5. Spitz and primitive types
Country of originFinlandSweden
CategoryMediumMedium
Recognition features
  • Medium-sized herding spitz about 10% longer than high
  • Medium to long, straight, harsh coat in black shades with markings
  • Low-set tail hanging in repose
  • Typical spitz of slightly less than medium size with proud head carriage
  • Profuse stand-off coat forming a ruff, usually black with "bear-brown" bronzing
  • Tail carried curled over the back in movement
CoatMedium to long, straight, rather erect and harsh coat with fine dense undercoat; black in different shades, even greyish or dark brown, with lighter markings.Profuse double coat standing out from the body with a dense, finely frizzy undercoat; usually solid black with bear-brown bronzing.
PurposeSami reindeer herder; docile, energetic and willing to work, barking readily.Nordic spitz used by the Sami for reindeer herding, hunting and guarding; now mainly a versatile companion.

Breed page: Lapponian Herder · Breed page: Swedish Lapphund

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The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard.