Swedish Vallhund Breed Guide
Also known as: Västgötaspets, Swedish Cow Dog
Viking dogs with short legs, Swedish Vallhunds are energetic, confident herding dogs whose compact size and bold personalities suit active households.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Small/medium
Weight
9-14 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
Size
Small/medium
Weight
9-14 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
About Swedish Vallhunds
The Swedish Vallhund originated in Sweden over 1,000 years ago, where they were bred as herding dogs for cattle and other livestock. These dogs are believed to be related to the Welsh Corgi breeds and were nearly extinct before being revived in the 1940s.
Swedish Vallhunds are small to medium-sized dogs with thick, weather-resistant double coats in various colours including grey, brown, yellow, and red with darker guard hairs. They're known for their fox-like faces, erect ears, and confident, energetic personalities.
These dogs are intelligent, alert, and make excellent family pets. They're generally good with children and are known for their loyal, protective nature. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation, excelling in herding and agility. Their coats need regular brushing to manage shedding. While generally healthy, potential concerns include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and certain genetic conditions. Early socialisation helps ensure they're well-adjusted around other pets and strangers.
Complete Care Guide for Swedish Vallhunds
Expert advice on keeping your Swedish Vallhund healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Establishing proper nutrition forms the foundation of a Swedish Vallhund's health and vitality. These active, medium-sized dogs require carefully balanced meals that provide adequate protein for muscle maintenance, healthy fats for energy, and essential vitamins and minerals for overall wellbeing. High-quality commercial dog foods formulated for active breeds typically offer an excellent nutritional base.
Portion control plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal health, as Swedish Vallhunds can be prone to weight gain. Measuring meals carefully and adjusting portions based on activity level helps prevent obesity, which can strain joints and impact overall health. Regular weight monitoring ensures your dog maintains an ideal body condition.
Fresh, clean water should always be available, particularly given this breed's energetic nature. Consider incorporating moisture-rich foods into their diet to support hydration, especially during warmer months or periods of increased activity. When selecting treats for training or rewards, opt for nutritious options and include them in the daily caloric allowance to maintain a balanced diet.
How healthy is your Swedish Vallhund?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Swedish Vallhunds from our community of pet parents
Swedish Vallhunds are known for their friendly, energetic and alert nature. They are very intelligent dogs, which makes them quick to learn but also means they need mental stimulation to prevent boredom. They are extremely social animals, thriving on interaction with their family, and are typically good with children and other pets. However, they do have a strong herding instinct, so supervision may be required with small children or animals.
Dog Breeds Similar to Swedish Vallhund
Explore breeds with comparable temperament, size, and care requirements to the Swedish Vallhund
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Longer and more reserved than their Pembroke cousins, Cardigan Welsh Corgis offer herding intelligence in a distinctive tailed package.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Short-legged herders without tails, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are intelligent, adaptable dogs whose moderate size and friendly nature suit various household types.