Swedish Vallhund

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingWeekly brushing

  A weekly brush keeps the coat healthy.

• Living spaceApartment-friendly

  Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment12–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Progressive retinal atrophy · Intervertebral disc disease · Patellar luxation

The Swedish Vallhund, or Västgötaspets, is an ancient Swedish farm dog that has herded cattle since the Viking age; genetic and historical evidence links it with the Welsh Corgis, though which influenced which is unresolved. It nearly died out in the 1940s and was saved by a deliberate rescue programme. It is built like a corgi, long in body and short in leg, but it is a spitz with a wolf-grey sable coat and a lighter, more athletic frame. It is a busy, bright, sociable dog with a great deal to say. Vallhunds are alert and vocal, quick to announce visitors, friendly with people and generally good with children and other dogs. They are intelligent and enjoy training, excelling at agility, obedience and herding, and they need real exercise of around an hour a day plus mental work. Their herding instinct shows as circling and heel-nipping, which needs redirecting early. They are also natural clowns and stay playful into old age. The harsh double coat is easy, needing a weekly brush and daily attention during the twice-yearly moult. Health-wise, the breed has its own documented eye disease, Swedish Vallhund retinopathy, with a DNA test available, so ask for it. The long back means intervertebral disc disease is a risk, so discourage jumping from height, use ramps for the car and sofa, and keep the dog lean throughout life. Also screen hips and patellas. Expect twelve to fifteen active years.

• How much exercise does a Swedish Vallhund need?

  High. Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• How much grooming does a Swedish Vallhund need?

  Weekly brushing. A weekly brush keeps the coat healthy.

• Is a Swedish Vallhund suited to apartment living?

  Apartment-friendly. Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Is a Swedish Vallhund a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Swedish Vallhund live?

  12–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Swedish Vallhund?

  Keep an eye out for Progressive retinal atrophy, Intervertebral disc disease, Patellar luxation. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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