Swedish Vallhund

The Swedish Vallhund is a compact and tough dog that brings many joys. This spitz breed features a smart and inquisitive expression, along with upright ears and tails that can be short, docked, or long. Their coat is short and dense, available in various colors, often with white patches. For many years, they have served as farm dogs, showcasing their adaptability and strength, along with a lively and curious nature.

Quick Info

Size
Medium
Colours
Steel-grey, grey-brown, grey-yellow, red-brown, and red-yellow
Lifespan
12 to 15 years
Height
12 to 14 inches
Type
Herding
Hypoallergenic
no
Weight
20 to 35 pounds
Family
Spitz

Personality

The Swedish Vallhund, though small, is full of confidence and is a lively, adaptable, and nimble farm dog. They enjoy playtime but can also relax when necessary. While they learn quickly, they tend to think for themselves, so they may require some extra encouragement to follow commands. Their curiosity can sometimes be a bit much, and they are affectionate without being overly needy. They get along well with other pets and are generally good with kids, although they might try to herd little ones by nipping at their heels. For many years, they have served as watchdogs and will bark to let you know if something is up.

History

Often called “the small Viking dog,” the Swedish Vallhund is a type of Spitz that has served as a tough farm dog for many years, possibly dating back to the Viking era. These dogs were used for herding cattle and guarding property, and they still have those protective instincts today. By 1942, the breed was nearly gone, but efforts were made to save it. In 1964, their name was changed in Sweden to Västgötaspets, after the province of Vastergotland, where the breed was brought back. The first Vallhunds arrived in the United States from England in 1983.

Ideal Owner

It’s best if owners have some background in training and caring for Spitz breeds. The Swedish Vallhund needs plenty of exercise, whether through walks or playtime without a leash, along with consistent training sessions. These dogs are smart but can be quite independent, so they may require some extra encouragement to follow commands. They don’t require big houses, but they do need enough room to run around and have fun. Homes without young children or those with older kids are more suitable for them.

Exercise Needs

Though small in size, this energetic working dog thrives on physical activity and mental challenges to feel content. They are adaptable and can perform a variety of jobs beyond just herding, including agility training, hoopers, scent work, and various dog sports.

Space Requirements

The Swedish Vallhund is not a big dog, but it requires a decent-sized yard to stay active. They tend to bark and enjoy herding, so they thrive better in peaceful rural or suburban settings, away from close neighbors. When taken for walks on a leash, they enjoy different paths and extra places where they can run free.

Training

Vallhunds are clever and like to think for themselves, so they require their owners to help them learn commands. It's crucial to be consistent and use positive rewards. Training them to come back when called is essential; even though they have short legs, they can run quickly and will keep going if something catches their eye. It's important for them to interact with people and other animals, and they need to learn to herd only when asked. Additionally, teaching them to relax is also necessary.

Grooming

The dog has a thick, soft undercoat and a rough top layer that only require occasional brushing.

Suitability for Family Life

If your family enjoys being active, a Swedish Vallhund could be a great pet for you. These dogs are bred for work and have a lot of energy, often trying to herd people and animals. They might nip at small kids while doing this, so they are better suited for families with older children or no kids at all.

Did You know?

Vallhunds are skilled at finding prized truffles with their sense of smell. Although they are not widely recognized, the Swedish Vallhund has been featured on stamps in various nations, including Mali, Nicaragua, Ukraine, Russia, and Sweden.

Similar Breeds

No items found.

Need to Know

Dog suitable for owners with some experience
Extra training required
Generally healthy breed
Enjoys active walks
Medium dog
Minimal drool
Requires regular grooming
Chatty and vocal dog