Picture this. Your home is quiet and calm. Suddenly, out of nowhere, a burst of playful energy bounces around each corner, fighting invisible invaders and chasing phantom squirrels. That’s your pet pal – your devoted, furry friend who loves you unconditionally – the Finnish Lapphund. With his exuberant glee, fierce loyalty, and oh-so-adorable bushy tail, it’s easy to fall in love. But, let’s delve deeper into their nature: are they dangerous?
We know, the word “dangerous” might sound alarming if you’re considering adopting a Finnish Lapphund, known also as ‘Lappies’. Who would want to live with a pet that can potentially harm them, right? However, keep in mind that any dog, regardless of their breed, has the potential to be dangerous if improperly trained and unsocialized. So, let’s dive into the specifics about Finnish Lapphunds and debunk the myths associated with them.
Let’s start with a bit of history first. The Finnish Lapphund hails from the vast, white landscapes of Scandanavia, precisely from Lapland, above the Arctic circle. These earthen companions were originally bred by the Sami, the indigenous nomadic people, to herd reindeer. Their dog of choice had to be intelligent, hardworking, energetic, and importantly, capable of weathering the region’s severe, harsh conditions which, by the way, were as frosty as a bucket of ice cubes. The Finnish Lappies, with their thick double coat, ticked all these checkboxes, making them the perfect reindeer herders. Over time, they evolved into companion animals known for their loyalty and friendly manners and eventually won hearts worldwide.
The question of whether a Finnish Lapphund tends to be dangerous can be an alarming prospect for hopeful owners. However, this breed is renowned for its friendly, gentle, and social nature. They are dogs that love people, are excellent with children, and gel well with other household pets. Sure, they have a sturdy build and an impressive bark, which might make them seem intimidating, but don’t let that fool you. Beneath that wolf-like exterior lies a heart full of fur-baby love.
Of course, they’re energetic canines, and yes, they were herding dogs who looked after reindeers in a land that could perform as a double for Disney’s Frozen. This energy and intelligence can sometimes manifest as mischief and exuberance, especially in their puppy years. Like every other breed, Finnish Lapphunds require proper training, socialization, and patience to channel their energy constructively. Without it, they may develop certain undesirable behaviors.
Training them isn’t a Herculean task either. The Finnish Lapphunds are known for their intelligence and eagerness to learn. However, they are sensitive animals, and harsh training methods might cause them to withdraw and become fearful or anxious. Therefore, using positive reinforcement methods, like treats, praises, or petting, can go a long way in training and preparing them for a harmonious coexistence.
However, any pet can pose a certain degree of danger if it becomes bored or frustrated because of a lack of physical and mental stimulation. Finnish Lappies need a decent amount of exercise and play time to keep their vigor under control. A bored Lappie might vent out his frustration by chewing furniture or barking excessively. Therefore, it’s essential to have a sizeable backyard where they can chase balls or just run around freely, along with plenty of mentally stimulating toys.
In terms of health too, they are a sturdy and generally healthy breed with a lifespan of 12-15 years. However, like all breeds, they can have certain breed-specific health issues. Keeping their food intake in moderation and following a regular exercise routine is key to maintaining their health and temper.
So, let’s circle back to the question at hand. Are Finnish Lapphunds dangerous? Given what we now know about these charming canines, the answer is a resounding no. Of course, the pet parent’s commitment to training, socializing, and exercising this breed plays a significant role in shaping its behavior, making the Lapphund a wonderful and safe addition to any family. In the paws of a loving, responsible pet parent, these fluffy bundles will only be dangerous to the number of treats you have left in the jar – and that’s a risk worth taking.
