Swedish Vallhund
Group: Pastoral
Size: Medium
Coat length: Short
Grooming required: Once a week
Coat sheds: No
Home size: Small or Large House
Garden size: Small/Medium
Lifespan: Over 10 Years
Exercise: Up to 1 hour per day
They are small and low to the ground but strong and sturdy. Their head is quite long with erect, alert ears. Their coat, can be either 'silver' or 'red', both are a combination of dark hairs and lighter hairs, the silver has a cream undercoat whereas the red's undercoat is more tan. Their double coat is thick with a dense undercoat, slightly harsh outer and a slight mane. They can have patches of white but this is not desired.
They may be distantly related to the Corgi and had a similar role as a cattle herding dog. "Vallhund" means "cattle dog" and as puppies, their natural tendency is to nip ankles but this can easily be trained out of them.
They have a cheerful, affectionate, steady temperament and are highly intelligent and trainable. They also love the sound of their own bark. They are people, children and animal friendly. Although active indoors, they enjoy a daily walk too and have good stamina.
Their coat is easy to maintain with regular brushing and combing and occasional bathing. There are no known health problems.