Description

The ears of the Swedish Vallhund are stiff and pricked and lined with fine hair. The muzzle is long and parallel to the top of the skull. A fox-like expression is paramount. A well-defined mask is highly desirable, with lighter hair around the eyes, muzzle, and under the throat. The coat is harsh, tight and medium in length with a soft undercoat. The neck is long and muscular. The legs are powerful with short oval feet and round pads. Coat colors include gray, red-yellow, red-brown and gray-brown. A fractional amount of white markings are tolerated.

Origin

may have been transported by the Vikings to Britain or spurned from imported Pembroke Welsh Cori brought to Sweden. Although his color is drabber and lacks the Corgi zing, he is no less a utility dog. The Vallhund, meaning herding dog, is a canine of many talents such as a cattle drover, watchdog, ratter and versatile farmland. He is a more and more common site at European exhibitions.

Temperament

The Swedish Vallhund is a responsive and even-tempered companion. It is intelligent and affectionate. He loves attention and can be casually grayish and show-offish. Owners are never disappointed in his multi-faceted ability or his spontaneous sense of humor. Extremely active and devoted little dogs. They are usually good with considerate children. They will try to guard your home even if they too small for the situation. Wary of strangers, it should be properly socialized and trained when it is still young to avoid over-protective behavior as an adult. They sometimes try to herd people by nipping at their heels, although they can be trained not to do this. The Swedish Vallhund tends to bark a lot and makes a good alarm dog. Males can be aggressive with other males, particularly if a bitch in heat is in the vicinity. This breed makes a great companion and can be used for herding and ratting. They also make excellent show and obedience dogs.

Height

Height: 12-16 inches (30-40 cm.)

Weight

Weight: 25-35 pounds (11-15 kg.)

Known Health Problems

-

Conditions for Living

The Swedish Vallhund will do ok in an apartment if they are sufficiently exercised. This breed is very active indoors and will do okay without a yard.

Exercise Requirments

Naturally active little dogs, they should always be encouraged to

Life Expectancy

About 12-14 years

Grooming

The hard, tight, medium-length coat is easy to groom. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, and bathe only when necessary. This breed is a average shedder.

Group

Herding