Swedish Lapphund
Male: 16-20 kg, Female: 14-17 kg
40-51 cm at the shoulder (Ideal for males: 48 cm; Females: 43 cm)
12-15 years
Sweden
About the Swedish Lapphund
The Swedish Lapphund is a versatile and hardy spitz-type dog, recognized as one of Sweden's oldest breeds. Historically the 'Dog of the Midnight Sun,' they served the Sami people as loyal companions and tireless reindeer herders. They are characterized by their rectangular silhouette, fox-like face, and a distinctive 'stand-off' coat that protected them from the harsh Scandinavian elements. In a domestic setting, the Swedish Lapphund is a devoted family member that thrives on human interaction. While they are highly trainable and eager to please, they retain an independent streak and a vocal nature inherited from their herding days. Their agility and intelligence make them exceptional candidates for various dog sports, and they are generally regarded as a robust, long-lived breed with a spirited and friendly disposition.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the ring, the Swedish Lapphund displays a light, ground-covering trot that conveys effortless endurance. The breed standard emphasizes a rectangular body with a level back and a tail curled over the back when moving. Their expression must be kind and intelligent, framed by a thick ruff that creates a majestic, lion-like appearance.
In Australia
Reliable Australian historical records for this breed’s introduction were not located.
Bred For
Originally bred by the Sami people for hunting and guarding, the breed transitioned into a specialized reindeer herder, using its voice and agility to manage herds in Arctic conditions.
Temperament
Intelligent, alert, energetic, and highly affectionate. They are known for their 'thinking' nature and a strong desire to be involved in family activities.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
, (-prcd), hereditary , and occasionally .
Grooming Needs
Moderate to High; requires thorough brushing at least twice a week to manage the dense undercoat and prevent matting, increasing to daily during seasonal shedding periods.
Good with Kids
Generally excellent with children, being playful and protective, though supervision is recommended with very young children due to their energy.
Good with Other Pets
Good with other dogs if socialized early; their herding instinct may cause them to 'herd' smaller household pets.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and quick to learn, but they require consistent, positive reinforcement to manage their independent nature and vocal tendencies.
Coat & Colours
Profuse double coat: a straight, harsh outer coat and a soft, dense, woolly undercoat that is weather-resistant.. Solid black is most common; liver (brown) is also accepted. Small white markings on the chest, feet, and tip of the tail are permitted.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Prospective owners should be prepared for the Swedish Lapphund's vocal nature; they were bred to bark to alert reindeer, so they are more likely to be frequent barkers—this can be managed with consistent training but is an inherent trait. They are also prone to heavy seasonal shedding (blowing their coat), which requires intensive grooming to manage the volume of fur in the home. Regarding health, the breed is predisposed to hip dysplasia and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA); while not every dog will be affected, it is vital to choose breeders who perform hip scoring and DNA testing. Their high intelligence means they can become bored without mental stimulation, which may lead to digging or other independent behaviors if they aren't kept occupied. These dogs are incredibly loyal, but this can sometimes manifest as a sensitivity to being left alone for long periods, potentially leading to separation anxiety if not acclimatized to solitude from a young age.
Feeding Guide for Your Swedish Lapphund
Healthy Weight
14-20 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
340-600 grams per day
A fresh, raw diet for a Swedish Lapphund should focus on lean proteins to maintain an athletic build. For an adult weighing approximately 17 kg, an intake of 340 g to 510 g per day is recommended, adjusted based on their specific activity level. Incorporating raw meaty bones is essential for dental health, while fermented vegetables provide necessary fiber and antioxidants.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-protein, nutrient-dense fresh or raw diet is ideal to support their high energy levels and maintain their thick double coat.
An ideal raw diet for a Swedish Lapphund features high-quality Australian proteins such as Kangaroo, which is low in fat for weight management, and Beef or Lamb for essential fats. Majestik Pet Food's range of fresh, single-protein rolls provides an excellent foundation for these requirements, ensuring the coat remains glossy and energy levels remain stable.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Swedish Lapphund Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Swedish Lapphund? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
4-6 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.