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Swedish Vallhund Facts
- Group
- Herding
- Affiliations
- CKC, UKC
- Height
- 11.5" - 13.5"
- Weight
- 25-35 lbs.
- Lifespan
- 14 years | Add yours
- Exercise Requirement
- Training Requirement
- Grooming Requirement
- Colors
- Breed Characteristics
Alternate Names
Vastgotaspets, Viking dog, Swedish cattle dog, spitz of the West Goths.
Origin
The Swedish vallhund originated in Sweden.
Date Of Origin
We know that this breed developed over 1,000 years ago. This breed was revived in 1942.
History
The Swedish vallhund is believed to be an ancient dog, first developed as an all purpose farm dog and cattle herder. It is believed to have been brought to Sweden with the Vikings and may be related to the corgis. It was close to extinction until the mid-twentieth century, when a fancier revitalized the breed. The vallhund is a herder of both cattle and sheep. It was first imported to England in the 1970?s and to the U.S. in the 1980?s.
Description
This is a sturdy, small or medium size spitz type dog with a rectangular shape. It has a wedge shaped head, black nose, and prick ears. The tail is naturally long or bob or docked. The double coat has a thick undercoat and course outer coat that is gray to red with harness markings and a facial mask.
Temperament
The vallhund is an alert, bold, curious, and energetic dog. A hard worker, it is intelligent, trainable, and eager to please. It gets along with almost everyone, including children and other animals.
Uses
This breed is a herder of sheep and cattle. It is also known to be a companion. However shedding needs to be regulated with professional grooming.
Health Concerns
Cleft palate, cryptorchidism, hip dysplasia, luxating patellas, retinal dysplasia.
Additional Information
The vallhund requires an active owner. It can adapt to a city, suburban, or rural home, provided it receives enough exercise and attention.
Sources
The Howell Book Of Dogs
Publisher: Wiley Publishing Inc, 2007
Website: http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/
Author: Liz Palika
Dog Bible
Publisher: BowTie Press, 2005
Website: http://www.bowtiepress.com/bowtie/
Authors: Kristin Meuh-Roe, Jarelle S. Stein
The New Encyclopedia of the Dog
Publisher: Dorling Kindersley Publishing, 2000
Website: http://www.dk.com
Author: Bruce Fogle
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