Swedish Vallhund Dog Breed, Swedish Vallhund Puppies

Appearance

• The Swedish Vallhund is a compact little dog with a relatively long body.


• They stand roughly 12 to 16 inches in height (at the shoulders).


• They typically weigh between 25 and 35 pounds.


• These dogs have a double coat that is short and rough on the outside and soft and thick underneath.


• You can find these small dogs in the following colors:


1. blue
2. red
3. black
4. yellow
5. gray

Temperament

• These dogs are relatively intelligent.


• They are affectionate toward their master and immediate family.


• They are energetic and alert.


• This small dog will bark at unfamiliar noises. Thus, they are decent watch dogs.


• These dogs are good with children; however they are somewhat feisty around dogs they are unfamiliar with.


• They are also quite playful, both indoors and outdoors.

Living Standards

• This is an active little dog that would enjoy a home with a small to medium size yard to run around in.


• If you live in an apartment, this small dog will be fine. Just be sure to get him plenty of exercise.

Exercise

• These dogs should be walked on a daily basis.


• You may also let this them run free in a safe confined area.


• Be sure to provide this dog with dog toys and bones to chew.

Litter Size

• Swedish Vallhund puppies are normally born into a litter 6 and 9 pups.

Health and Life Expectancy

• This generally a healthy breed.


• Certain health issues related to these small dogs include:


1. Hip Dysplasia
2. Cleft Palate
3. Retinal Dysplasia
4. Luxating Patella


• The life expectancy of these dogs is typically between 12 and 14 years of age.

Trainability and Obedience

• Due to their intelligence, this breed is not overly difficult to obedience train.


• Be firm and consistent while training this small dog.


• Show them that you are the leader and in control.


• For the best results, begin socializing and training this breed when they are pups.


• Remember that any small dog breed can develop small dog syndrome if not properly trained.

Grooming

• These dogs are not difficult to groom.


• Simply brush them on a regular basis (use a firm bristle brush).


• Check their ears and eyes regularly.


• Bathe them when necessary.

History

• This breed originated in Sweden nearly 1000 years ago.


• These small dogs are believed to have sailed on Viking ships and thus, earned the name the “Viking Dog”.


• This breed is believed to be related to the Cardigan Welsh Corgi or Pembroke Welsh Corgi.


• The Vallhund was used to herd livestock and kill vermin.


• During the late 1930s to the early 1940s, these small dogs nearly became extinct.


• Fortunately, this breed rebounded from near extinction during the 1950s.


• This dog was brought to the U.S. during the 1980s and is still considered a rare breed.


• This breed was accepted by the AKC in 2007

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