Mary Allen
Introduction: The Swedish Lapphund as a Working Dog
The Swedish Lapphund, also known as the Lapland Dog, is a breed of working dog that originated in the northern regions of Scandinavia. For centuries, the Swedish Lapphund was used by the Sami people to help with herding reindeer, hunting, and farming. Today, the breed is still used for work, but it is also a popular companion animal.
Origins of the Swedish Lapphund
The Swedish Lapphund is an ancient breed that has been around for over a thousand years. Its exact origins are unknown, but it is believed to have descended from the spitz-type dogs that were brought to Scandinavia by the Vikings. The breed was developed by the Sami people, who lived in the northern regions of Scandinavia. The Sami people relied heavily on the Swedish Lapphund for their survival, as the dog was used for herding reindeer, hunting, and farming.
The Lapphund’s Role in Sami Culture
The Swedish Lapphund played an important role in Sami culture. The Sami people were nomadic, and they relied on their reindeer herds for their survival. The Swedish Lapphund was used to help herd the reindeer, and it was also used to help with hunting and farming. The dog was highly valued by the Sami people, and it was often treated as a member of the family.
The Lapphund’s Adaptation to Life in Scandinavia
The Swedish Lapphund is a hardy breed that is well adapted to the harsh conditions of Scandinavia. The dog has a thick, double coat that provides insulation against the cold, and it has webbed feet that allow it to walk on snow without sinking. The breed is also known for its intelligence and its ability to work independently.
The Lapphund’s Role in Reindeer Herding
The Swedish Lapphund was primarily used for herding reindeer. The dog would work alongside the Sami herders to keep the herd together and to protect it from predators. The dog was also used to help with rounding up the reindeer, as well as to help with separating them for slaughter.
The Lapphund’s Work in Hunting and Farming
In addition to herding reindeer, the Swedish Lapphund was also used for hunting and farming. The dog was used to help hunt small game such as rabbits and birds, and it was also used to help with farming tasks such as pulling carts and plows.
The Lapphund’s Decline in Popularity
In the early 1900s, the Swedish Lapphund began to decline in popularity. The breed was replaced by other herding and hunting dogs, and its numbers dwindled. By the mid-20th century, the breed was on the brink of extinction.
The Lapphund’s Revival as a Working Dog
In the 1960s, efforts were made to revive the Swedish Lapphund as a working dog. The breed was recognized by the Swedish Kennel Club in 1962, and breeders began working to increase its numbers. Today, the Swedish Lapphund is still used for work, but it is also a popular companion animal.
Modern Uses for the Swedish Lapphund
The Swedish Lapphund is still used for herding, hunting, and farming, but it is also used in other roles. The breed is a popular companion animal, and it is often used in therapy work due to its gentle nature. The Swedish Lapphund is also used in search and rescue work, and it has even been trained as a service dog.
The Lapphund’s Recognition as a Breed
The Swedish Lapphund was officially recognized as a breed by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1996. Today, the breed is recognized by kennel clubs around the world, and it is a popular show dog.
Conclusion: The Legacy of the Swedish Lapphund
The Swedish Lapphund has a rich history as a working dog, and it has played an important role in the survival of the Sami people. Today, the breed is still used for work, but it is also a beloved companion animal. The Swedish Lapphund’s intelligence, loyalty, and hardworking nature make it a wonderful addition to any family.
References and Further Reading
- "Swedish Lapphund." American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/swedish-lapphund/.
- "Swedish Lapphund." The Kennel Club, https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/services/public/breed/display.aspx?id=2097.
- "Swedish Lapphund." Dog Breed Info, https://www.dogbreedinfo.com/swedishlapphund.htm.