The Swedish vallhund was once called the Viking dog because it travelled on Viking ships between Sweden and Wales during the 800s. Mystery continues to abound regarding the dog’s relation to the Welsh corgi that it resembles. In its native Swedish homeland, the Swedish vallhund served as a herder and watchdog on farmsteads until it faced near extinction by the close of World War II. The first Swedish vallhunds to enter the United States arrived in 1985. In 2007, the American Kennel Club recognized the Swedish vallhund as a member of the herding group.
The Swedish Vallhund is a small dog that is sturdy and muscular. Vallhunds are set low to the ground because of their short legs. They have powerful, athletic legs and strong necks. Their muzzles are rather long and they have large erect triangular ears. Their coats are short and easy to groom. The coat should be brushed regularly. Bathe only when necessary.
Personality
The Swedish Vallhund is a friendly, sociable and alert dog breed with close bonds with humans and are easy to train. They are loving and affectionate and are fond of children. The Vallhund has high energy levels and needs plenty of exercise outdoors. Vallhunds are very protective and may be territorial. That’s why they may be aggressive or reserved with other dogs or people they don’t know.
Breed Characteristics
| Type: | Pure |
| Family: | Herders |
| Origin: | Europe |
| Group: | Herding |
| Life Span: | 12-14 Years |
| Nicknames: | Viking dog |
Swedish Vallhund Build Information
The stocky Swedish vallhund stands at a height of 11,5 to 13,5 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 20 and 30 pounds. The double coat is medium in length and exhibits a sable pattern of any color from grey to red, with or without white markings on the paws, forehead, chest or neck. The tail may be long, stubbed or naturally bobbed. The ears are pointy and stand erect.
| Size: | Small |
| Length (Male): | 8-12 in. |
| Length (Female): | 10-12 in. |
| Weight: | 15 – 25 lbs |
Behaviour and Personality
The energetic Swedish vallhund makes a playful companion for families with children. They are affectionate, intelligent and entertaining. The breed is social toward strangers and other animals. Swedish vallhunds thrive on activity, including hiking trips and dog sport competitions. They are easy to train and eager to please. Swedish vallhunds make alert, vocal and effective watchdogs.
| Activity Level: | Moderately Active |
| Affection Level: | Very Affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Very Friendly |
Appearance
Swedish vallhunds require moderate grooming, but their thick coats shed heavily. Brush through the coat twice a week to remove dead hairs and reduce the amount of shed in the home and on clothing. Brush a Swedish vallhund’s teeth every other day to remove plaque and reduce the risk for periodontal disease.
| Shedding: | Constant |
| Grooming: | Medium Maintenance |
Swedish Vallhund Common Health Conditions
Swedish vallhunds live average lifespans of 12 to 14 years. The Swedish vallhund is generally a hardy breed. The few health conditions that have been noted in the breed include progressive retinal atrophy, patellar luxation and hip dysplasia.
Swedish Vallhund Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
If you seek an active, loving, fun and versatile breed that would make a perfect canine companion for your family that includes children and other pets, the Swedish vallhund will thrive in your household. The Swedish vallhund originated in Sweden. The Swedish vallhund is also called a vallhund, a Swedish cattle dog, a vastgotaspets and a vaestgoetaspets. The Swedish vallhund is a playful family companion and a skilled watchdog. The Swedish vallhund stands 11,5 to 13,5 inches tall and weighs 20 to 30 pounds. The Swedish vallhund has a moderate energy level. The Swedish vallhund requires medium grooming. The average lifespan for a Swedish vallhund is 12 to 14 years.
| Training: | Easy |
