Prepare for unexpected vet bills
Finnish
Lapphunds are fun-loving, hardy medium-sized dogs that can be rather vocal when
they are left alone for too long. They will also make their entertainment when
they have nothing to occupy their time, therefore, they need plenty of toys and
chews along with activities that wear them out and let them stretch their
muscles. The Finnish Lapphund originated north of the Arctic Circle and was
used mainly as a reindeer herder and has since become more of a companion dog
rather than a working dog. They are friendly dogs but will startle easily which
makes them seem a bit unsettled. Look for activities that will keep them moving
and allow them to be vocal while doing the activity given that they are
naturally barky dogs.Â
You may have never heard of treibball, sometimes called drive ball, but it is a popular game in Germany and is gaining popularity in North America, especially in Florida, Maryland, and California. The American Treibball Association has formed and is seeking to increase the popularity of the game. In Europe, leagues have been formed and dogs are able to earn titles in treibball. Treibball is played in 15-minute increments and is similar to soccer. Dogs are divided into two teams and must work together to drive the ball across the field and into a goal. The ball is not a typical soccer ball; instead, there are eight large, inflated balls that will be in play during the game. Treibball can look like complete chaos with several dogs chasing after these inflated balls!
Agility is a fast-paced, fun activity in which you work with your dog to guide them through an obstacle course. Many people are absolutely amazed when they first see agility dogs in action because of the speed in which they complete the course. There are some breeds that simply are not quite made for agility, such as the Mastiff breeds; however, the Finnish Lapphund is a breed that will excel at agility. These tough, medium-sized, agile dogs will be able to use their excessive energy to propel them through any obstacle course. They are intrepid dogs and are willing to try new things; this will serve them well when being introduced to the new obstacles in an agility course. It can be expensive to compete in agility and will take a good amount of time each week to train your dog.Â
The Finnish Lapphund was originally bred to herd reindeer; therefore most will still have a natural herding instinct and will do well in herding trials. Find a local dog club that offers herding classes and check them out. You may find that you enjoy the work just as much as your dog. Herding trials will be held in any weather and you will need a training whistle, flat buckle collar, leash, and a five foot bamboo pole.Â
A Finnish Lapphund is a high energy dog that needs to have activities to keep them busy. Toys and chews will help when you are not at home, however, if you leave them alone for long periods of time and do not spend time daily with them, they will become destructive and even more vocal. Find activities that both you and your dog enjoy so you can have a good time while bonding.Â