Dog Breeds > Swedish Vallhund
The Swedish Vallhund
The Swedish Vallhund is a highly energetic, watchful, alert and intelligent dog who is very powerful and completely fearless. Belonging to the herding dog group, they have been in existence for centuries involved in controlling cattle, catching rats and guarding homes. These small, low to the ground dogs are known to be great companions.
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Fascinating Facts
The Swedish Vallhund breed is related to the breeds of the Welsh Corgis who were believed to be brought down to the country of Wales by the Vikings as long back as the 9th century. Previously this breed was known as the "Vikingarnas Hund" meaning the ‘Viking Dog’ as compared to ‘Vallhund’ now, which means herding dog.
Physical Appearance
The Swedish Vallhund is a very low built dog growing only up to 12 -16 inches and weighing 25-35 pounds. Though such lowly built, they are quite sturdy with strong feet and a long head sporting a long muzzle, black lips, a black nose and dark oval shaped eyes. This breed comes in various coat colours like that of grey, grayish brown, reddish brown and reddish grey. The coat hairs are longer in the areas around the neck, chest and back legs.
Grooming
The Swedish Vallhund is double coated with a medium length, coarse outer coat and a soft but dense undercoat which is quite easy to groom. Brushing thoroughly with a bristle brush should be enough and keep in mind to bathe only when necessary. This breed is not a heavy shedder at all.
Mood
The Swedish Vallhund is an intelligent dog which has an even temperament. An active and responsive dog, it loves to be the centre of attraction with its funny tricks. Providing the proper leadership is crucial, since a dog who is not clear about its place, or who the actual leader is, may bark its head off. Herding skills sometimes lead to them nipping at people’s heels but this can be controlled by proper training. Overall the Swedish Vallhund is a very good companion dog.
With Children
Swedish Vallhounds who have been made to socialize from puppy hood are quite alright to be left with children. Remember that it is not at all a good idea to keep children close to dogs who are not clear about their place. Hence an able and firm leadership which commands discipline along with affection is what trains these dogs after which they can be safely kept with children.
Training & Exercise
In training a Swedish Vallhund, the training objective and approach has to be kept in mind. The dog should never have the idea that it is the leader of the pack. Communicate proper leadership to it and socialize it right from the start and it will be absolutely fine and easily trainable. Remember that this intelligent breed can be good stage performers of dog tricks and thus training them is a delight.
Since the Swedish Vallhund is an active dog, taking them for daily walks are a must for providing the requisite exercise. They are quite suitable for apartment life and having a back yard is not compulsory.
Health & Life Expectancy
Having a life expectancy of about 12 – 14 years, the Swedish Vallhunds have no major health concerns. Regular vet check ups for common dog issues such as eye problems and hip dysplasia is recommended.
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