Lappies: The Good, The Bad and The Fluffy
So, you’re thinking about getting a Finnish Lapphund? Great choice! But before you get lost in those adorable, fluffy faces, let’s talk about the reality of owning one.
Lappies are incredibly loving, intelligent, and playful, but they also come with some quirks that might not suit everyone.
Here’s the good, the bad, and the fur-covered truth!
🐾 10 Reasons Finnish Lapphunds Are Amazing
1. Living Teddy Bears 🧸
Soft? Check. Fluffy? Check. Built-in cuddle buddy? Absolutely.
Their thick double coat makes them super snuggly, perfect for chilly nights.
2. Friendly & Affectionate 💕
Lappies are big-time lovebugs. They adore their humans and will happily follow you everywhere—even the bathroom. They’re fantastic family dogs and great with kids!
3. Super Smart 🧠
They learn fast—sometimes too fast. Training can be a breeze if you keep it fun (and bring treats).
They’re also great at puzzles, tricks, and agility courses.
4. Playful & Goofy 🤪
Lappies have big personalities! They love to play, zoom around the yard, and entertain you with their silly antics.
They’re natural comedians—expect to laugh every day.
5. They “Talk” to You 🗣️
Lapphunds don’t just bark—they woo-woo, grumble, sigh dramatically, and even "argue" with you.
It’s like having a furry little roommate who always has something to say.
6. Good With Other Pets 🐶🐱
Dogs? Cats? Rabbits? They get along with almost everyone—as long as they’re socialised correctly.
7. Adventure-Ready ⛺
Hiking? Beach trips? Road trips? They’re in!
Lappies love exploring and will happily join you on any outdoor adventure.
8. Naturally Clean & Low Maintenance 🛁
Even with all that fluff, Lappies are surprisingly clean dogs. Their coat repels dirt, and they rarely have a strong doggy odor.
Unlike some breeds, they don’t need frequent baths, a good brushing keeps them looking fresh!
9. Expressive Faces & Adorable Eyebrows 🥺
Lapphunds are masters of expression. Their eyebrow markings make them look constantly curious, concerned, or excited.
You’ll never have to guess what they’re thinking—it’ll be written all over their face!
10. Long Lifespan 🎉
With proper care, they live 12-15 years—that’s over a decade of love, fluff, and fun!
🚨 10 Challenges of Owning a Finnish Lapphund
1. Fur. EVERYWHERE. 🏠
Their thick coat means constant shedding. Twice a year, they “blow” their coat—it’s like a fur explosion.
Get ready to vacuum. A lot.
2. They Can Be Stubborn 🙃
Smart? Yes. Obedient? Only when they want to be.
If they decide they don’t feel like listening, good luck convincing them otherwise.
3. They Demand Attention 🎭
Lappies want to be involved in EVERYTHING.
Cooking dinner? They’ll supervise. Working on your laptop? Expect a paw on your keyboard. Watching TV? They’ll want cuddles.
They’re affectionate, but they also need time and interaction—not a dog to be left in the backyard.
4. STIMULATION Levels ⚡
A short walk alone won’t cut it. They need exercise and mental stimulation, or they’ll find their own fun—usually at your expense.
Bored Lappie = Destructive Lappie.
5. Barking 🔊
They love to alert bark—at visitors, delivery drivers, birds, and sometimes nothing at all.
They’re not excessive barkers with training, but if you want a totally silent dog… this isn’t it.
6. Grooming - Requires Regular Brushing 🖌️
That beautiful coat doesn’t maintain itself.
Lappies need brushing at least once a week to prevent mats and tangles. If you slack off, they’ll quickly turn into a walking fluff-ball of knots and loose fur.
7. Escape Artists 🏃♂️
Bored? They’ll dig, jump, or squeeze their way out of the yard.
If your fencing isn’t secure, you might find yourself chasing a runaway fluffball.
8. Drama Kings & Queens 🎭
They don’t just dislike things they make a scene.
Bath time? Nail trims? The wrong type of treat? Expect Oscar-worthy protests.
9. Bad Recall - Everything Else Can Be More Exciting 🚀
Lappies are easily distracted by squirrels, birds, other dogs, or even just a really good smell.
Even well-trained Lappies can have questionable recall, so an off-leash Lappie is a risky Lappie.
10. Puppy Destructiveness - Keep Them Contained or They Will Cause Trouble 🏚️
Lappie puppies can be tiny furry wrecking balls.
If left unsupervised, they’ll chew furniture, steal shoes, unroll toilet paper, and dig up your garden.
Baby gates, crates, and plenty of safe chew toys are essential!
🏆 Final Verdict: Should You Get a Finnish Lapphund?
✅ YES, if you want a loving, fluffy, smart, and fun best friend who will keep you entertained for years.
❌ NO, if you can’t handle fur, barking, stubbornness, or a dog that will sass you daily.
Owning a Finnish Lapphund is a lifestyle—one filled with laughter, love, and a whole lot of fur. If you’re up for the challenge, a Lappie will be the best decision you ever make!
🐶 Want to Learn More?
Check out more Finnish Lapphund tips, training advice, and adorable photos right here on orical.com.au!