Swedish Vallhund

Origins and History

The Swedish Vallhund, also called the Västgötaspets, is one of the world’s oldest spitz‑type herding dogs. Archaeological evidence and Viking artwork suggest the breed existed in Sweden as early as the 9th‑10th centuries, where it was employed to drive cattle and guard farms. The modern breed was formalised in the early 20th century; the Swedish Kennel Club (SKK) issued the first breed standard in 1906 and recognised the breed officially in 1910. The Vallhund was introduced to the United Kingdom in the 1930s and to the United States shortly thereafter, gaining full AKC recognition in 1935. Today the breed is valued for its versatility in agility, obedience, and as a companion.

General Characteristics

• Compact, sturdy build with a slightly elongated body and short legs.
• Alert, lively temperament; strong herding instinct combined with a friendly disposition.
• Originally bred for cattle driving, today excels in dog sports, therapy work, and family life.

Note: The information provided is general and should be supplemented with the latest breed club guidelines and veterinary advice.

Physical Specifications

• Height: Males 12‑13.5 inches (30‑34 cm); Females 11‑12.5 inches (28‑32 cm).
• Weight: 15‑25 lb (7‑11 kg), proportionate to height and build.

Coat and Color

• Medium‑length, harsh double coat; outer coat straight to slightly wavy, undercoat dense.
• Accepted colors: wolf gray, solid gray, red, red with black mask, black and tan, and brindle variations. White markings are limited to a small blaze on the face or a small chest spot.

Temperament Considerations

Swedish Vallhunds are intelligent and eager to work, yet retain a degree of independence inherited from their herding heritage. They can be vocal and may try to “drive” people or other pets, so consistent leadership is essential.

Training Essentials

• Early socialisation with people, children, and other animals to temper herding instincts.
• Daily vigorous exercise – at least 1‑2 hours of active play, walks, or dog‑sport activities.
• Positive‑reinforcement methods work best; avoid harsh corrections which can trigger stubbornness.
• Common challenges: tendency to become bored, occasional leash‑pulling, and a strong desire to chase moving objects.

Daily Grooming

• Brush 2‑3 times per week with a slicker brush or pin brush to remove loose hair and prevent matting.
• Bathing as needed; a mild dog shampoo every 6‑8 weeks is sufficient.
• Trim nails regularly; check weekly to avoid overgrowth.
• Dental care: brush teeth 2‑3 times weekly or provide dental chews.

Show Preparation

• Begin a structured grooming routine 2‑3 weeks before the show: weekly baths, thorough brushing, and a light trim of the footpads.
• One day prior, give a final brush‑out, clean ears, and ensure the coat is free of debris.
• On‑ring, present the dog in a balanced stance, showcasing the breed’s characteristic “bunny‑hop” gait and alert head carriage.

Common Health Issues

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) – inherited retinal degeneration; DNA testing recommended for breeding stock.
• Hip Dysplasia – moderate incidence; radiographic screening advised.
• Patellar Luxation – especially in smaller individuals; regular orthopedic checks.
• Autoimmune Thyroiditis – hypothyroidism can affect coat and energy; annual thyroid panels recommended.
• Epilepsy – occasional reports; monitor for seizure activity.

General Care

• Exercise: Minimum 1 hour of vigorous activity daily; mental stimulation is equally important.
• Nutrition: High‑quality protein‑rich diet appropriate for the dog’s size and activity level; avoid over‑feeding to maintain optimal weight.
• Lifespan: Typically 12‑15 years when health issues are managed proactively.