The Finnish Lapphund is a dog of exceptionally gentle and friendly disposition, deeply attached to its family. Intelligent and eager to cooperate, it learns readily and does extremely well in training based on positive reinforcement.
It is active and hardy — a legacy of working with reindeer herds. It needs regular exercise and occupation for the mind, and excels in canine sports such as agility, obedience, tracking and herding.
It has retained a distinct herding instinct and a tendency to give voice — it can be talkative. It is alert but not aggressive, and is thoroughly at ease with children and other animals.
This is a sensitive breed that copes badly with loneliness and with harsh handling. It flourishes in close contact with its people, treated as a full member of the family.