Swedish Vallhund Dog Breed

The Swedish Vallhund is universally categorized as a Herding Dog, and in the various kennel clubs such as the AKC, FCI, and UKC, that is where you will find this breed. They were bred to not merely herd cattle and other livestock but to manage them alone in hostile environments. Don't let their short legs and seemingly small bodies deceive you; these dogs are extremely active, demanding, and sharp, and they are not recommended for first-time families.

PROS

• Very curious
• Even-tempered
• Superb watchdogs
• Great agility dog
• Highly intelligent
• Extremely protective
• Very strong and powerful
• Lives well with other pets
• Can be wonderful with kids
• Superb for very active people

CONS

• Sheds a lot
• Easily bored
• Somewhat bossy
• May bark a lot
• Difficult to find
• Independent-minded
• Not hypoallergenic
• Expensive to acquire
• Serious health concerns
• Can be challenging to train
• Requires a confident master
• Habitually nips when chasing
• Moderate to high grooming needs

Because it is a rare breed, if you're looking for the 101 on these dogs you should know there tends to be a very limited amount of Swedish Vallhund information. These herding dogs can make excellent companions and adapt well to most all environments: small apartments, large houses, wide-open ranches, etc. They are cute little dogs, and they have many intriguing features.

The intelligence of this dog is remarkable. They must be very interested in their training or they'll quickly get bored and wait for you to figure out how to stimulate them. They are also very independent and curious, which, coupled with their smarts, can be challenging. Training, games, and playtime fashioned as puzzles will delight your Swedish Vallhund.

These dogs are accustomed to working alone, but they have a strong desire for companionship. They are loyal to their loved ones, protective of their people, and insistent on being around others. They don't tend toward separation anxiety, but if you aren't home, they may find ways to amuse their curiosity that may be annoying.

These dogs may be fine in small apartments, but they need a lot of exercise. The Swedish Vallhund is not a couch potato; they need people with an active lifestyle who want a dog along for the fun.

If there's one thing about the Swedish Vallhund temperament, it's the bossiness. They'll attempt to herd anything that's loud, moving, and in groups — especially young children playing, or other pets. Because they'll be insistent on herding, they tend to nip heels when there isn't a prompt response, so supervision is required when they are around kids. Except for this possible habit — which may be humorous but shouldn't be encouraged — these dogs are versatile, protective, and friendly. They are also loving and devoted dogs that, once properly trained, will want to please their loved ones.

Training may not be easy, as these dogs tend to be independent-minded. If they don't feel that their training is challenging or fun, they may not respond positively. These are very curious dogs, and training that's like a puzzle will inspire Swedish Vallhunds. They are also moderate barkers who may bark a lot, are fearless, and are wary of strangers, so when socializing them, this should be considered.

The Swedish Vallhund is a very healthy breed, but there are problems to anticipate. They have some typical issues that all dog breeds encounter, but they do have a particular genetic problem with their eyes. There are also concerns in the bob-tail varieties that are said to have recently developed in Australia due to docking the breed's tail, and these concerns can be fatal for the dog.

You should always get your dog health-tested to check for possible concerns, whether from the breeder or by a vet. Some of the problems you should look out for are:

• Eye problems
• Joint ailments
• Skin allergies
• Heart conditions
• Dental problems
• Ear deformities
• Spinal malformations
• Absence of anus (fatal)

Kept happy, exercised regularly, and mentally stimulated, your Swedish Vallhund should live to 12 to 15 years old.