Apart from color variation, there is just one type of Swedish Vallhund. These dogs are typically characterized by their sturdy build, pricked ears, and double coat.

Swedish Vallhunds were originally bred in Sweden to herd livestock.

Swedish Vallhunds are from Sweden (they’re actually the national dog breed of Sweden), and they date back to the eighth or ninth century. It is thought that Vikings brought back Pembroke Corgis from Pembrokeshire, and they intermixed them with indigenous spitz breeds to create the Swedish Vallhund.

Swedish Vallhunds typically live to be between 12 and 15 years old. Providing your dog with proper nutrition, exercise, vet care, and a loving environment can help them live a long and happy life.

Swedish Vallhunds typically reach full height by about nine to 12 months old, but they continue to fill out and gain muscle until they are about 18 months old. Different dogs may have different growth rates, however.

Swedish Vallhunds is pronounced “SWEED-ish VAHL-hund.” The emphasis is typically on the first syllable of “Swedish” and the second syllable of “Vallhunds.”

Swedish Vallhunds are not as common as some other breeds, but they are not considered extremely rare. They are recognized by major Kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club, but their numbers are relatively low compared to more popular breeds. However, their popularity has been increasing, especially as more people learn about their charming personalities, versatility, and suitability as companion animals.

Yes, Swedish Vallhunds are generally wonderful with kids. They are gentle with young kids and great playmates to older ones.

As with any breed, it is recommended that pet parents properly socialize and train their dog from a young age and that parents always supervise children when interacting with dogs. Teaching children how to properly approach and handle dogs is also crucial to ensure positive experiences for both the dog and the child.

Yes, Swedish Vallhunds barks a lot. Like most herding dogs, this breed uses their high-pitched bark in work and play. As with any dog, they can be discouraged from barking as frequently with proper training and exercises.

Yes, Swedish Vallhunds make delightful, energetic family companions. They are friendly, have a great sense of humor, and form strong bonds with their family. They are happiest with a job to do or on a good, long walk, so be prepared to keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated.

The Swedish Vallhund is a herding dog, so they may try to herd or chase your cat until they understand they are part of the family. Each dog and cat has their own preferences and temperament, of course, but early socialization and training can help smooth the way. Always remember to provide all your pets a comfortable environment so they feel safe.

Yes, Swedish Vallhunds are typically good with other dogs, particularly if they are socialized with them from a young age. Like any breed, personalities can vary, so some may be more outgoing and social while others may be more reserved. Proper training and early exposure to various dogs in various situations can help your Swedish Vallhund develop good social skills.

Yes, Swedish Vallhunds are quite smart dogs. They are quick learners and have a strong desire to please their pet parents, which makes them highly trainable.

Yes, Swedish Vallhunds are affectionate and enjoy cuddling with their family members. While they have a history as working dogs, their loving and loyal nature helps them form strong bonds with their parents. Your Swedish Vallhund may seek out physical contact like cuddling, snuggling, and leaning against you. However, individual personalities can vary, and some Vallhunds may be more independent or reserved in their affection compared to others.

Swedish Vallhunds are only recommended for first-time pet parents who are prepared to spend a good amount of quality time with their dog and meet their social and exercise needs. Early socialization is crucial for Swedish Vallhunds to develop good manners. Vallhunds are an active breed with high energy levels, and they require lots of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They also thrive on companionship and may develop behavioral issues if left alone for long periods. Make sure you research the breed thoroughly before determining if a Swedish Vallhund is right for you.

Yes, Swedish Vallhunds make decent watch dogs due to their alert and vocal nature. They are often quick to alert their parents to the presence of strangers or unusual sounds. However, they’re not considered guard dogs in the traditional sense because they’re just too friendly.

Yes, Swedish Vallhunds can adapt to apartment living if provided with generous daily exercise, but it may not be the best choice. While Swedish Vallhunds are medium-sized, they have high energy levels and may appreciate having more space to move around indoors or access to a larger outdoor area. Swedish Vallhunds are also known to be vocal, which may disrupt your apartment neighbors.

Yes, Swedish Vallhunds can be good therapy dogs, but ultimately, it depends on the individual dog’s temperament, training, and suitability. Vallhunds are generally friendly, outgoing, and affectionate and can be trained to be comfortable being handled by strangers and remaining calm in potentially stressful situations.

Yes, Swedish Vallhunds love to work, so you’ll find rewards-based training works well for this breed. However, training any dog takes substantial time and effort, regardless of breed.

Swedish Vallhunds are mostly healthy, robust dogs with a relatively long average lifespan, but they may experience some health issues, including: 

• Joint issues: Though Swedish Vallhunds are not affected as much as other breeds, they may develop patellar luxation and/or hip dysplasia. Patellar luxation occurs when slight abnormalities cause the knee joint to slide in and out of place. This can lead to pain and occasional lameness. Surgical treatment is available for severe cases, although many dogs lead normal lives without treatment. Hip dysplasia is the most common skeletal disease seen in dogs. It occurs when the hip joint grows abnormally or is misshapen. The abnormal shape prevents the joint and socket from properly meeting one another, resulting in rubbing and grinding instead of sliding smoothly. Over time, the rubbing from dysplasia can cause a variety of issues, such as pain, lameness, and secondary osteoarthritis. Surgery can be done to fix the joint if diagnosed before the onset of arthritis.

• Eye disorders: Swedish Vallhunds are prone to genetic progressive retinal atrophy, a progressive degenerative disease affecting the retina that eventually leads to blindness. Around 35 percent of Swedish Vallhunds are affected by some type of blindness by the time they are 10.

No, Swedish Vallhunds are not considered hypoallergenic. They have a double coat that sheds moderately year-round and more heavily during shedding seasons.