Pet Wiki

Lapponian Herder

Also called Lapinporokoira, Lapland Reindeer Dog, Lapp Reindeer Dog, Lapsk Vallhund, Reindeer Herder

Recognised breedFCI group 5Short profile

From Finland, from the reindeer-herding dogs of the Sami people of Lapland.123

At a glance the quick version

Weight25 to 29 kg3
Height, male48 to 54 cm2
Height, female43 to 49 cm2
Sizemedium

Wikipedia gives 25-29 kg, with males usually heavier; the FCI standard sets no weight.

calm and friendly
energetic and eager to work
adaptable, well-rounded problem solver
24

Coat and looks how to spot one

medium to long double coat

A harsh, straight outer coat that stands slightly off the body, over a dense undercoat. The hair is longest on the neck, chest and backs of the thighs. Ears stand upright.23

Coloursblackdark greydark browngreyish or brownish shading on head and lower bodywhite markings on neck, chest and legs23

Personality what they are like

A mellow, good-natured dog around the house that switches on when there is work to do. It is keen, cooperative and quite vocal while herding.24

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A true working herder that needs regular daily exercise and tasks that engage its mind.34

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The medium coat is fairly easy to keep; regular brushing, more during seasonal shedding.42

Home where they are happiest

Fits most homes as long as it has a job and plenty of activity; its coat suits cold climates.42

Company who they like around

Friendly with its family and suited to an experienced owner who can keep it busy.24

The story where it all began

The Sami have used dogs of this type to herd reindeer for hundreds of years. After most dogs were lost in the Second World War, Finnish and Swedish breeders rebuilt the population, and in 1966 the shorter-coated dogs were separated from the Finnish Lapphund as the Lapponian Herder.23

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    It was split from the Finnish Lapphund in 1966, largely on coat length and the different way the two work reindeer.3

  2. 2

    It readily barks while working, which helps it move reindeer.2

  3. 3

    Its official job description in the FCI standard is simply 'reindeer herder'.2

  4. 4

    Nordic reindeer dogs carry a rare maternal DNA line thought to come from wolf-dog mixing hundreds to a few thousand years ago.3

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name 'Lapponian Herder' comes from its Finnish name 'Lapinporokoira', which translates to 'Lapland reindeer dog', reflecting its historical use by the Sami people for herding and guarding reindeer.3

Name ideas for your new friend

NinniLumiReinoAinoTuiskuMiskaSamiKeloHillaRuskaPoroEero

A day in the life told by a Lapponian Herder

Morning comes and I bounce to the door, time to work! I race around the yard, rounding up the chickens. 'Good job!' my human laughs. Inside, I nap on the rug, one ear cocked for my cue. After lunch, we head to the field; I herd nothing in particular, just for fun, barking happily. I check in with my human often, tail wagging. Evening: a cuddle on the sofa, then a last look at the stars. I dream of reindeer and wide-open spaces.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard no. 284, Group 5 (Spitz and primitive types), Section 3 Nordic Watchdogs and Herders; definitive recognition 13 November 1970; country of origin Finland; latest standard published 11 February 2026.1
AKC
Has a breed profile on the AKC site.4

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Lapponian Herder. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Blueberry and Oat Bites

These three-ingredient treats are quick to make and packed with antioxidants from blueberries and fibre from oats. They are low in fat and perfect as a training reward.

You need

  • 100g oats
  • 1 banana (mashed)
  • 40g fresh blueberries (chopped)
  • Splash of water (as needed)

How

  1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
  2. In a bowl, mix the mashed banana, oats, and chopped blueberries together.
  3. Add splashes of water gradually until the mixture comes together into a large ball.
  4. Roll out the mixture on a lightly floured surface to about 1-2cm thick.
  5. Use a knife or cookie cutter to cut into shapes.
  6. Place the shapes on a lined baking tray.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until slightly browned.
  8. Leave to cool completely before serving.

How much: Offer one or two bites per day for a medium-sized dog. Reduce your dog's usual food portion to account for these treats.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Lapponian Herder, and at what times?

Adult Lapponian Herders should be fed at least two meals a day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Consistent meal times help their digestion, and free feeding is not recommended for puppies. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.5

What should a Lapponian Herder eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, xylitol, onion, garlic, and alcohol. Always avoid these and consult your vet for a complete list.6

How often should I bathe a Lapponian Herder?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests bathing every 70 days, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty. Use a gentle dog shampoo to keep their double coat healthy.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Lapponian Herder need brushing?

Brush every three days, and daily during heavy shedding seasons to manage loose fur. Their medium double coat is fairly easy to maintain with regular brushing.42 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Lapponian Herder's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 28 days, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.7 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Lapponian Herder need?

This true working breed needs regular daily exercise and tasks that engage its mind. Daily walks and play are essential, and they thrive when given a job to do.34 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Lapponian Herder's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth daily if possible, at least two to three times a week, using dog toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks and clean gently without pushing anything into the ear canal. Your vet can show you the best technique.7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Lapponian Herder live?

Lifespan varies by individual, but with good care they often live into their early teens. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy lifestyle support a long life.

Is a Lapponian Herder good with children and other pets?

Yes, they are friendly with their family and generally good with children and other pets when properly socialized. They are mellow at home but need an experienced owner to keep them busy.24

Can a Lapponian Herder be left alone?

They can be left alone for reasonable periods if they have had enough exercise and mental stimulation. However, they are a working breed that thrives on companionship and activity, so long periods alone may lead to boredom.24

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

You might also like

Finnish LapphundSwedish LapphundNorwegian Buhund

Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. FCI nomenclature: Lapponian Herder (284) fci.beused for recognition
  2. FCI standard 284 Lapponian Herder fci.beused for history, height, coat, colours, temperament, use
  3. Lapponian Herder - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for names, history, weight, fun facts
  4. AKC: Lapponian Herder akc.orgused for temperament, coat care, living needs
  5. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  7. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.