About the Swedish Vallhund

Background The Swedish Vallhund dates back to eighth century Sweden where the breed was utilised as a farm dog, primarily for herding cattle. The Swedish Vallhund is known in its native land as "Vastgotaspets" which means "Spitz of the West Goths". This dog is also known as the Swedish Shepherd. The origins of the Vallhund are still shrouded in mystery. In Sweden it is believed that the Vallhund travelled to Wales with the Viking raiders and went on to become the ancestor of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. The Swedish Vallhund was first introduced to Australia in 1981.

Average Lifespan When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime. Swedish Vallhund live from between 12 to 15 years of age.

Breed Personality/Characteristics/Temperament The Swedish Vallhund is a chirpy little working dog, in which the herding instinct is still very evident. An energetic breed, the Vallhund is friendly, active, agile and intelligent. It responds well to training due to its eager-to-please personality and is very trustworthy with children. As with all dogs, young children and pets should always be supervised when together. These dogs do well at obedience, love agility and are accomplished trackers.

Compatibility with other pets The Swedish Vallhund is quite trustworthy with other dogs.

Care Requirements Vallhund are tough, hardy dogs, not subject to any particular ailment. When properly cared for, they are seldom ill. Their low maintenance coat is weather resistant and easily repels mud and grime. They have a major moult at least once a year, shedding their woolly undercoat everywhere. Daily grooming during this period will ease the problem. Regular grooming throughout the year is recommended to keep the coat shiny and remove any dead hair. Mental stimulation and regular exercise are also important, as a bored Vallhund can create havoc in the garden, doing such things as barking and rearranging the washing. Secure fences are necessary to prevent dogs roaming the neighbourhood.

Please Take Note The Vallhund is very much a working breed and when excited has been known to nip the heels of its owners. These dogs tend to like the sound of their own voice and may require training to stop them from barking. Because the breed in Australia has a limited gene pool, prospective buyers should check a puppy’s background to ensure that it is not too closely bred.

Ideal Owner/s An ideal family pet, the Swedish Vallhund is suitable for children and for the active elderly.

In Conclusion Now you know a little about the Swedish Vallhund and have decided this is the dog for you or you want more information, make contact with the breed club or your State controlling body for purebred dogs. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog shows where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs.