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Swedish Vallhund Dog Breed Introduction
Swedish Vallhund also called the Västgötaspets and Swedish cow dog is a small to medium-sized herding dog breed from Sweden. It is popular for the short but thick double coat, which comes in a grayish color. As herding dogs, they were initially bred as drovers and herds of cows more than 1,000 years ago. Their head is wedge-shaped, having dark brown oval eyes and pricked ears.
They are born with every difference in tail length, ranging from no tail at all to full length, therefore Swedish Vallhunds are always erroneous for having been docked (Tail docking is forbidden in Sweden) Swedish Vallhunds weigh 23 to 35 pounds and are 12 to 14 inches tall. They will not need a huge home, but, a good-sized secure garden is a must.
They are the best family pets for those who are ready to walk and take part in training or other dog-related workouts. Watch out for their desire to herd moving objects, and as cattle dogs, they are nimble, bold, and not opposed to nipping to make someone move and so are not good in families with small active kids. Homes with older kids, teenagers, and those minus children will find these breed an engaging and intelligent companion who is affectionate and fun to stay with.
History
They are ancient national dog breeds of Sweden and may belong to an earlier time to the 8th or 9th century. These dogs emerged in the province of Västergötland, which lies just south of Lake Vänern. There the small dog developed to be best for watching, guarding, as well as herding.
This dog breed goes back to eighth-century Sweden where it worked as a farm dog, firstly by herding cattle. As herding dogs, they were initially bred as drovers and herds of cows more than 1,000 years ago.
Lifespan
The lifespan of Swedish Vallhunds is 12 to 15 years.
Swedish Vallhund Puppy
Swedish Vallhunds puppies are small-medium herding dog breeds from Sweden. They have a short but thick double coat, which comes in grayish to reddish color. Basic herding abilities for puppies can be trained to take part in herding trials.
Grooming
They are very easy dogs to manage when it comes to grooming. Swedish Vallhunds have a double coat that needs regular grooming. Weekly brushing is needed using a small pin brush to get rid of dirt and dead hair. Prepare your Swedish Vallhunds for a successful grooming process by getting them accustomed to touch on the paws, feet, ears, and the rest of body. Regular grooming will also go a long way in paying off in health benefits. The grooming routine of Swedish Vallhunds needs daily brushing to keep mats and tangles from forming and taking a firm hold in the dog’s coat.
Brushing Swedish Vallhunds is best as they shed twice a year. Swedish Vallhunds need a bath every 6 to 8 weeks unless they roll in something messy. Always use a hypoallergenic shampoo and conditioner to bath and moisturize the Swedish Vallhunds coat. Do not rub the coat with a towel but rather allow it to air dry. If the coat mats mostly around the legs, ear, and neck find a natural separation and use your fingers to work on the mats.
Swedish Vallhunds should have their nails trimmed every 3 to 5 weeks to prevent overgrowth and cracking. Brush the teeth of Swedish Vallhunds twice a week if not daily to get rid of tartar buildup by using a poultry-flavored toothpaste and toothbrush. Clean Swedish Vallhunds ears once a week using cotton balls dampened in an ear solution to get rid of dirt and excess wax.
Shedding
These dogs tend to shed a lot twice a year (fall and spring).
Coat
The Swedish Vallhunds have a short and harsh coat, with a tight topcoat and a soft, dense undercoat.
Hypoallergenic
They have a moulting coat that sheds twice a year. The Swedish Vallhunds are not hypoallergenic dogs hence not suitable for those who suffer from dog allergies.
Training
Swedish Vallhunds are intelligent and agile which makes them learn fast. Although Swedish Vallhunds may be stubborn and headstrong breed that has no issue with ignoring your command. Parents should establish a firm but gentle handle when training Swedish Vallhunds. Swedish Vallhunds should be socialized from an early age.
Socialization is attained by introducing the pet to new dogs or people, places, and sounds like washing machines, trains, and doorbells. Enrolling Swedish Vallhunds in a puppy class is also a form of socialization. This training will proceed after Swedish Vallhunds leave for its new new home from the age of 8 weeks to the age of 16 weeks. Use positive methods to inspire good behaviors by giving threats, toys, playtime, verbal praise, and petting.
Harsh corrections ways like punching, beating, and kicking should be stopped. Also, keep the training sessions lively and challenging to avoid boredom. Teach Swedish Vallhunds basic command words (one at a time from the age of 8 weeks) like come, stay, lie down, sit leave it, heel, etc. Effectively housebreak Swedish Vallhunds by creating a feeding guide, potty training, and crate training at an early age.
Swedish Vallhund Temperament
– Playful.
– Active.
– Obedient.
– Affectionate.
– Intelligent.
– Alert.
– Devoted.
– Wary of Strangers.
– Loyal.
– Agile.
Exercise
These dogs are active and energetic thus they need both physical and mental stimulation. After the age of 18 months, Swedish Vallhunds can engage in strenuous exercises since the growth plates have closed. Therefore, Swedish Vallhunds will make great companions for man-trailing, agility, rally obedience, herding events, hiking, or running.
Barking
Swedish Vallhunds have a strong guarding instinct and they are wary of strangers. Therefore, Swedish Vallhunds become the self-appointed guardians of their homes. Due to this, Swedish Vallhunds may be quite vocal while executing this role.
Full Grown Swedish Vallhund
Full-grown Swedish Vallhunds are strong, with a long body. Their height is 12 to 14 inches and weigh 23 to 35 pounds.
Height
Mature Swedish Vallhunds have a height of 12 to 14 inches ( approx. 30 to 36 cm ).
Other dog breeds apart from Swedish Vallhund include:
Weight
Swedish Vallhunds have a weight of 23 to 35 pounds ( approx. 10 to 16 kg ).
Size
They have a weight of 23 to 35 pounds ( approx. 10 to 16 kg ) and are 12 to 14 inches ( approx. 30 to 36 cm ) tall.
Health Issues
Swedish Vallhunds may suffer from certain health problems such as eye problems like cataracts, and cherry eye. Hip Dysplasia, allergies, Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, and Neuroaxonal dystrophy are also other health issues.
Names
Swedish Vallhunds parents may find a name for the pet before it joins them home or days after it has already settled to know its traits better. Owners may get name inspirations from the Swedish heritage of the breed, coat color and texture, movies, books, and historical songs.
The names preferred should freely roll off the tongue. Swedish Vallhunds and other dog breeds understand a name that has vowels. If Swedish Vallhunds have a name that rhymes with the command words it will create confusion. Some of the names that Swedish Vallhunds parents give to their pets include:
– Hamlet.
– Darby.
– Banyan.
– Flora.
– Digger.
– Diesel.
– Jojo.
– Lykke.
– Estelle.
– Maya.
Food
The amount of food that Swedish Vallhunds feed on depends on their age, activity level, metabolism, size as well as body build. Swedish Vallhunds will thrive on either raw food, homemade food, or commercial dry or wet food. However, some owners have experienced occasional dog food allergies.
Any food that Swedish Vallhunds feed on should be appropriate to its age i.e. puppy, adult, or senior. Consider the dog’s activity level while choosing the level of fat, carbohydrates, and proteins. Some of them may be susceptible to obesity. Keep watch on weight level and calorie consumption. Be well-versed with the human foods that are harmful to these dogs. Make sure your Swedish Vallhunds have access to clean water at all times.
Swedish Vallhund Colors
Their coats comes in different colors most common being grey, greyish brown, and greyish-yellow to reddish brown, with dark fur on the back, neck, as well as body sides.
Red
Reddish brown Swedish Vallhunds can come with or without white or sable markings.
Corgi
Swedish Vallhunds are not Corgis or mixed breeds. They look similar to a Corgi. Swedish Vallhunds are distinct breeds that are not as stocky as a corgi. Their body isn’t as long as the corgi’s and its legs aren’t as short.
Swedish Vallhund Price
Swedish Vallhunds cost $1,300 to $2,400 depending on the pedigree of the dog, age, location of the breeder, and how famous the breed is at the time of purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How Much Is Swedish Vallhund
Swedish Vallhunds costs $1,300 to $2,400 for a pup.
Is Swedish Vallhund Aggressive
No, these dogs are not overly aggressive but are alert and confident.
How Much Does A Swedish Vallhund Cost
Their cost ranges from $1,300 to $2,400 for a pup.
Facts
- They are timeless breeds.
- Swedish Vallhunds have harness markings on their shoulders.
- They love to bestow affection on their owners.
