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Swedish Vallhund (Vastgotaspets)
Medium Breed
The Swedish Vallhund is a small but powerful dog, sturdily built, powerful and agile. The Swedish Vallhund is known as the "little Viking dog" by admirers of the breed.
Breed standards
Country of origin
Sweden
Weight
9-14kg / 20-31lbs (standards may vary)
Height
Males approximately 33cm / 13in;
Females approximately 31cm / 12in (standards may vary)
Coat
Medium coat
Markings
Desirable colours are grey, greyish-brown, greyish-yellow or reddish-brown. Often darker hairs on back, neck and sides of body, and lighter hair on the muzzle, throat, chest, belly, buttocks, feet and hocks. Lighter markings on the shoulders (harness markings) are desirable. White markings are permitted on the legs and chest, as is a narrow blaze, neck stop or slight necklace.
Lifespan
Long, 15+ years
Amongst the breed's many talents are obedience, tracking, agility, herding, search and rescue, family companion, ratting, watchdog, tricks and retrieving. This extremely versatile dog makes an excellent family companion; he is easily trained, affectionate, and loyal and loves playing with children.
Temperament
The Swedish Vallhund is active and intelligent with a sound temperament. He has a good sense of humour, loves attention and is extremely friendly and loyal. The Swedish Vallhund makes the perfect pet as he loves to be trained, to solve problems and to work.
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PoorChildrenGood
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VeryCombativenessNot very
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VeryDominanceNot very
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Not veryFriendlinessGood
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Not veryIndependenceVery
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LoudNoiseQuiet
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Not veryTrainabilityVery
Good to know
Swedish Vallhunds are magnificent small breed dogs of great strength and power and full of expression. They are known to be a very healthy and hardy breed, provided they are given the appropriate care and nutrition they require.
- Makes a wonderful family pet and a fine companion
- Capable of a range of roles due to great intelligence, agility and versatility
- Excels as a watchdog
- Little grooming needed
- No trimming or stripping needed
- Adapts well to most climates
- A seasonally heavy shedder
- Lots of exercise needed
- Must have daily physical activity and mental stimulation
- Not recommended for novice owners
- Not suitable for apartment living