This Comprehensive Owner's Guide dedicated to the Finnish Lapphund is the only publication available on this distinctive spitz breed. Developed as a reindeer herder, the Finnish Lapphund today is a versatile companion, show, and working dog, used in its native Finland for a variety of tasks, including herding, drafting, hunting, and guarding. Written by breeder and owner Toni Jackson, Finnish Lapphund introduces the reader to the icy tundra of the breed's homeland where the Lapphund has been used to hunt and guard reindeer herds. The history chapter details the development of Finland's herding dogs, the Finnish Lapphund and the Lapponian Herder, as well as the growing Lapphund followings in England, Denmark, Holland, Australia, and, of course, the United States. For students of the Finnish Lapphund, this volume is indispensable, as it is for potential owners. The chapter on characteristics offers thorough descriptions of the breed's physical attributes and temperament as well as health concerns, all of vital interest to new and potential owners.
New owners will welcome the well-prepared chapter on finding a reputable breeder and selecting a healthy, sound puppy. Chapters on puppy-proofing the home and yard, purchasing the right supplies for the puppy as well as house-training, feeding, and grooming are illustrated with photographs of handsome adults and puppies. In all, there are over 135 full-color photographs in this useful and reliable volume. The author's advice on obedience training will help the reader better mold and train into the most well-mannered dog in the neighborhood. The extensive and lavishly illustrated chapter on healthcare provides up-to-date detailed information on selecting a qualified veterinarian, vaccinations, preventing and dealing with parasites, infectious diseases, and more. Sidebars throughout the text offer helpful hints, covering topics as diverse as historical dogs, breeders, or kennels, toxic plants, first aid, crate training, carsickness, fussy eaters, and parasite control. Fully indexed.