Swedish Vallhund

Västgötaspets, Swedish Cattle Dog, Vikingarnas Hund
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Swedish Vallhund is a small, sturdy herding dog originating from Sweden, known for its intelligence, energy, and versatility. They are affectionate with their families, good with children and other animals with proper socialization, and require regular exercise.

Origin and Purpose

  • Sweden
  • Herding cattle and other livestock
  • Farm dog
  • Watchdog
  • Companion

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female12-14 inches (31-35 cm)20-30 pounds (9-14 kg)
Male13-15 inches (33-38 cm)25-35 pounds (11-16 kg)

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Grey
  • Greyish brown
  • Reddish brown
  • Yellowish brown
  • Sable
  • With or without white markings
Type
  • Double coat
  • Dense
  • Harsh outer coat
  • Soft, dense undercoat
Length
  • Medium

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Moderate to High
Grooming
  • Regular brushing
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Moderately sized
  • Wedge-shaped
Skull
  • Flat
  • Moderately broad
Ears
  • Erect
  • Pointed
  • Medium size
Eyes
  • Medium size
  • Oval
  • Dark brown
Nose
  • Black
Muzzle
  • Moderately long
  • Tapering
Teeth
  • Scissors bite
Neck
  • Strong
  • Moderately long
Forequarters
  • Well-angulated
Fore Legs
  • Straight
  • Strong
Hindquarters
  • Well-angulated
Hind Legs
  • Straight
  • Strong
Feet
  • Small
  • Oval
  • Strong
Tail
  • Naturally long, docked or bobtail
Gait
  • Agile
  • Free
  • Light-footed
  • Strong drive

Temperament

  • Intelligent
  • Alert
  • Energetic
  • Courageous
  • Independent
  • Friendly
  • Can be reserved with strangers

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • High
Good with Children
  • Good
  • With supervision
Good with Dogs
  • Good
  • With socialization
Good with Cats
  • Good
  • With socialization
Openness to Strangers
  • Reserved
  • Can be wary
Playfulness Level
  • High
Protective Nature
  • Moderate
Adaptability Level
  • Moderate

Working Roles

  • Herding
  • Farm dog
  • Watchdog
  • Agility
  • Obedience
  • Companion

Exercise Needs

  • High
  • Requires daily exercise

Health

  • Generally healthy
  • Potential for hip dysplasia
  • Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
  • Patellar luxation

Additional Notes

  • Prone to barking
  • Needs early socialization and training

References