TheLappie, as he’s nicknamed, is a spitz breed, one of the oldest types of dogs in existence. He originated as a hunting partner and guard dog for the nomadic Sami people of Lappland, which comprises northern Norway, Sweden, Finland, and northwestern Russia. When the Sami began to live a more settled lifestyle, keeping herds of reindeer, theLappiedeveloped herding skills.
The Swedish Kennel Club recognized the Lapphund as a distinct breed in 1903. The first dog the club registered was named Halli. The breed is now considered Sweden’s national dog.
The Federation Cynologique Internationale recognized the Lappi in 1944, and the United Kennel Club in 2006. Swedish Lapphunds are recorded in the American Kennel Club’s Foundation Stock Service, the first step toward eventual recognition.