Swedish Vallhund

The Swedish Vallhund has a very even temperament and great disposition. Generally good with children, given the children are properly trained themselves to handle this breed. Very affectionate, loving and playful, this breed makes a great family companion. Good around other pets but not recommended for a home with cats unless properly socialized at an early stage of life.

The Swedish Vallhund is considered to be an authentic Swedish breed although uncertainty still exists as to the relationship with the type like the Welsh Corgi. Whether or not the Vikings brought Corgi-type dogs back from the British Isles to Sweden or Västgötaspets-like dogs from Sweden to Britain will never be solved. But modern research believes that the Västgötaspets is of Swedish origin. Regardless of the breed?s origin, credit for its recognition goes to Count Björn von Rosen. In the early 1940?s von Rosen was told that this old type of herding dog still existed and an investigation took place in the County of West Gotha. Particularly in the planes of Vara specimens of homogeneous type where found; few in numbers but enough to start breeding. Breed type was well established without loosing the working ability.

Swedish Vallhunds do well in an apartment environment if given proper exercise. An active breed, they do not require a fenced yard however does enjoy roaming free. One long daily walk should be enough to keep this rambunctious fellow happy.

Exercise.

Moderate shedding, the Swedish Vallhund doesn't require much grooming. Combing occasionally will suffice. Bathing only when necessary. Dry towel will remove any excess hair or dirt without bathing. Dry shampoo can also be used.

It is a dog easily to train because it is intelligent and eager to learn. With a consequent, firm, varied and gentle training, beautiful results can be obtained; it likes practice for agility contests or other canine sports.

The fur of this dog needs a regularly brushing to keep it in good shape.

Like many Spitz breeds, Vallhunds tend to bark a lot, although they can be trained not to do this. The breed is generally hardy and not prone to health problems. The Swedish Vallhund Club of America, however, recommends that breeding dogs' hips be certifi