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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Swedish Vallhund
The Swedish Vallhund has a fox-like expression. The muzzle is long and parallel
to the top of the skull. There should be lighter hair around the muzzle, eyes and
throat. The harsh coat is medium in length with a soft undercoat. Coat colors include
gray, reddish-yellow, grayish brown and reddish-brown. The short legs are powerful
with oval feet. The topline is level and the ears are stiff and pricked. The tail
is naturally bobtailed, but some owners have opted to leave the tail naturally long
and curling over the back.
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Temperament
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The Swedish Vallhund is an intelligent, affectionate and even-tempered pet. This
breed loves attention and can be a showoff. Once they realize that a particular
stunt brings laughter or applause, he will repeat it over and over again. They are
extremely active, devoted dogs that are sensitive to their owner's mood. They get
along well with children. Their small size makes them poor watchdogs, but they will
try to protect the family anyway. They tend to bark a lot, making them good alarm
dogs. The male in this breed can be aggressive. They make excellent show and obedience
dogs.
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Height, Weight
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Height: 12-16" ; Weight: 25-35 lbs.
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Health Problems
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This breed has no specific health problems.
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Living Conditions
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Vallhunds can live okay in an apartment if they are given sufficient exercise. They
are active indoors and will do fine without a yard.
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Exercise
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Though this breed does not need or want miles of running exercise, they must have
regular opportunities to vent their energy and to use their busy minds. They need
moderate exercise to maintain their muscle tone.
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Life Expectancy
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About 12-14 years
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Grooming
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This breed is easy to groom. Brush or comb the hard and tight coat. Bathe only when
necessary. They are average shedders.
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Origin
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An old, indigenous breed from the Vastergotland plains of Sweden, known for its
cattle herds, the Vallhund's similarity to the Welsh Corgis ? especially the Pembroke
? is intriguing. Pembrokeshire is accessible to the coast, and Viking raiders struck
along the Irish and Welsh coast. Whether the Vikings introduced the short-legged
dog to the Welsh or seized the hard-working little dog as part of their spoils is
speculated, but uncertain, and tends to be colored by whether it is a Vallhund or
Corgi owner telling the story. They are recognized by the AKC and the UKC.
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Group
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AKC and UKC Herding Dog
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