The Swedish Vallhund is an enthusiastic, yet stable little herding breed. They are a spitz breed that has been around since the time of the Vikings! These small, sturdy dogs were used for centuries as all-purpose farm dogs and cattle herders, making them both powerful and fearless despite their compact size. The breed had nearly gone extinct in the 1940s, but thanks to the efforts of Swedish breeders, they were revived and continue to thrive today.
Like most herding dogs, Vallhunds have an abundance of energy and must have an outlet in order to dispel it. Luckily, because of their short stature, a jog will go a long way toward working off that energy. While they have a robust work ethic, Vallhunds do not require miles of running to stay fit. Moderate activities like hiking, agility, or playing fetch are perfect for them. Even still, your Vallhund would appreciate a job to do that works both his mind and body. Obedience is a great task for this, as well as herding or other dog sports. You’ll find they excel in performance events like tracking, as they are loyal, affectionate, and always eager to please. You will appreciate that they are fast learners, making it a lot of fun to teach them new tasks! Their playful and sometimes independent nature means they need a confident owner to establish clear rules, or else they might try to be in charge!
Because the Vallhund is such an intelligent dog, he may come up with his own “games.” Those games may or may not be things you actually want him to do (AKA: excessive barking or general destructiveness), so be prepared to enforce the house rules. Consistency is key. The Swedish Vallhund has a spitz background, which means some of his ancestors were independent and stubborn. All the more reason why it’s important to teach him your house rules from a young age. Another thing to keep in mind is their fondness for herding anything they can—whether it’s you, your children, or other pets. They might try to do this by nipping, which is a common herding breed trait and must be managed through obedience training.
Often alert and quick to respond to unfamiliar sounds or movements, many Swedish Vallhunds make excellent watchdogs for the home. They have a natural tendency to “sound the alarm” when someone approaches the property, making them reliable protectors of the household. Their keen sense of awareness means they won’t miss a thing, and while they may be vocal about strangers, Vallhunds are not aggressive. Once introduced, they quickly warm up to guests, as they are social and friendly by nature. However, their vigilance remains sharp, keeping you well-informed of any unusual activity around your home.
In terms of appearance, Vallhunds are easy to spot with their double coat and unique “harness markings.” They’re known as a “big dog in a small body,” as although they are full of personality and confidence, they do not get taller than 14″ at the withers. Their tails can vary in length from natural to docked, and the tail isn’t judged in competitions, so you’ll see a variety in the breed. While they may look similar to the Corgi breeds, they are a breed unto themselves. The ears are not as wide or wide-set on the head, and the body is not as low to the ground or as long. Their athleticism helps them excel in activities like agility and obedience.
With their boundless energy, intelligence, and bold personalities, the Swedish Vallhund is an outstanding companion for active families. These spirited dogs are not just playful; they are also incredibly intelligent and eager to engage in a variety of activities. Their enthusiasm for life means they thrive in environments where they can stay active and mentally stimulated. Their innate drive and work ethic make them well-suited for tasks that require both physical and mental effort. In addition to their working capabilities, Vallhunds make excellent family pets. Their playful demeanor and energy make them great playmates for children and active individuals.
