Check out our article on exercise and bad behavior to learn why. Some breeds are independent and aloof, even if they've been raised by the same person since puppyhood; others bond closely to one person and are indifferent to everyone else; and some shower the whole family with affection. Being gentle with children, sturdy enough to handle the heavy-handed pets and hugs they can dish out, and having a blas attitude toward running, screaming children are all traits that make a kid-friendly dog. Some Vallhunds, purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one or given up because their families can no longer keep them, are in need of adoption or fostering. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Home > Dog Breed Reviews > Swedish Vallhund, Swedish Vallhund temperament, personality, training, behavior, pros and cons, advice, and information, by Michele Welton, Dog Trainer, Behavioral Consultant, Author of 15 Dog Books. However, he is definitely a friendly dog who can also act like a proper watchdog when it counts. This covers the cost of neutering and any outstanding shots the dog may need before you can adopt him. See below for all dog breed traits and facts about Swedish Vallhunds! Photo Tony Polglase. Meeting the puppy or, even better, the litter he comes from before you make a commitment to buy is undoubtedly your best bet. You also have to be on the lookout for obesity with this breed. Obedience training and interactive dog toys are good ways to give a dog a brain workout, as are dog sports and careers, such as agility and search and rescue. Even if he doesnt do that for a living anymore, he still needs daily exercise in the form of a long walk or hike or training for a dog sport such as agility. This attentive breed learns quickly and responds well to obedience training, but he does combine the independent judgment of a herding breed with the persistent, sometimes manipulative nature of the spitz family. Mouthy breeds tend to really enjoy a game of fetch, as well as a good chew on a toy that's been stuffed with kibble and treats. The Vallhund can become a nuisance barker, especially if he is frequently left alone. The height of a full-grown Vallhund is about 13 inches high for males and about 12 inches tall for females. When choosing a breed, think about how often the dog vocalizes with barks or howls. Do you have neighbors nearby? You may also want to ask if your shelter or rescue has informationabout the physical health of your potential pup's parents and other relatives. Barking is the main behavior issue to control. Spirited and athletic, yet steady and dependable, the Swedish Vallhund is a true "big dog with short legs.". If you've got a laid-back attitude toward slobber, fine; but if you're a neatnik, you may want to choose a dog who rates low in the drool department. If you think you can handle it, adopting a senior is even better. No one is immune from his bark, from the mail delivery person he sees every day to the dog next door. They enjoy having a second or third dog in the family to play with, especially another Vallhund. One thing you should never let your dog do is graze. Friendliness toward dogs and friendliness toward humans are two completely different things. Because the Swedish Vallhund is a smaller dog, he has a longer lifespan on average about 12 to 15 years. Other dogs need more time, patience, and repetition during training. , he is bred to move flocks long distances. Photo Tony Polglase. More traits and characteristics of the Swedish Vallhund. He corners like a race car and is an excellent agility competitor. The Vallhund has a weather-resistant coat designed to withstand the harsh elements of Sweden, but that doesnt mean hes an outside dog. The Swedish Vallhund hails from, of course, Sweden specifically, the county of Vstergtland. All rights reserved. The Vallhund is friendly toward others and readily accepts attention and treats from everyone he meets. You can also throw treats and toys in as necessary. They also shed their undercoats twice a year. Begin accustoming your Vallhund to being brushed and examined when he's a puppy. Sometimes it's easier to train your puppy (or adult dog) when you can see the correct training techniques in action. However, this doesnt necessarily mean you are in the clear. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Solve Behavior Problems By Teaching Your Dog To Respect You, Is a "big dog" with short legs, i.e. Take a look and find the right sized dog for you! Next post: A Complete Guide to Getting the Best French Bulldog Price, Previous post: Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie) Want to Own One? As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding and your dog may not cooperate the next time he sees the nail clippers come out. Consider whether you have the time and patience for a dog who needs a lot of grooming, or the money to pay someone else to do it. Teach your child never to approach any dog while he's eating or sleeping or to try to take the dog's food away. Due to poor breeding practices, some breeds are prone to certain genetic health problems, such as hip dysplasia. On average, you should expect to pay between $700 and $900 for a Swedish Vallhund puppy. You can also double-check that you are feeding him the recommended brand of food, and the correct amount of it. However, there are more adult dogs waiting for love, and everyone passes them over in favor of the younger ones. High-energy dogs are always ready and waiting for action. iy_2022; im_08; id_02; ih_13; imh_28; i_epoch:1659472104959, py_2022; pm_07; pd_13; ph_01; pmh_03; p_epoch:1657699438548, link-block-publisher; link-block-publisher_link-block-publisher; bodystr, pn_tstr:Wed Jul 13 01:03:58 PST 2022; pn_epoch:1657699438548. Dogs who like to chase need to be leashed or kept in a fenced area when outdoors, and you'll need a high, secure fence in your yard. Beloved companion of the Polglase family. When it comes to adoption, sure, everyone wants a brand-new puppy. Some dogs will let a stern reprimand roll off their backs, while others take even a dirty look to heart. Their medium-length coat comes in many different colors and combinations. Low-sensitivity dogs, also called "easygoing," "tolerant," "resilient," and even "thick-skinned," can better handle a noisy, chaotic household, a louder or more assertive owner, and an inconsistent or variable routine. The Swedish Vallhund and the Corgi are so alike that people even call the Vallhund a Wolf Corgi. Here are some of the main differences between the Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the Swedish Vallhund: Whether you decide to buy a Swedish Vallhund puppy or youre interested in adoption, you always need to do your research. Founded in 1884, the not-for-profit AKC is the recognized and trusted expert in breed, health, and training information for all dogs. He is sturdy and muscular and packs a big punch for his size. When picking a breed, consider your own activity level and lifestyle, and think about whether you'll find a frisky, energetic dog invigorating or annoying. A healthy weight for this dog is between 22 and 35 lbs., no matter whether were talking about a male or a female. For more on feeding your Vallhund, see our guidelines for buying the right food, feeding your puppy, and feeding your adult dog. You may be surprised by who's on that list: Fierce-looking Boxers are considered good with children, as are American Staffordshire Terriers (which are considered Pit Bulls). Ideally, the dog has a mask of lighter hair around the eyes, on the muzzle and under the throat; lighter shades on the chest, belly, rear end, lower legs and feet; and darker hair on the back, neck and sides. Most Swedish Vallhunds are friendly (or at least polite) with everyone and make sensible watchdogs. Check ears weekly for redness or a bad odor, which can indicate an infection. Not all Vallhunds will get any or all of these diseases, but its important to be aware of them if youre considering this breed. About the author: Michele Welton has over 40 years of experience as a Dog Trainer, Dog Breed Consultant, and founder of three Dog Training Centers. Swedish Vallhunds prefer their flock (family members and other pets) to be gathered together and may try to accomplish this by poking or nipping. A Brief History of the Swedish Vallhund Breed, Finding the Perfect Swedish Vallhund Puppy, You can train him to be more discriminate with his barking. To help keep your home a little cleaner, you can find a great de-shedding tool here! is happy in any environment, from city condo to country estate. These dynamos need lots of training to learn good manners, and may not be the best fit for a home with young kids or someone who's elderly or frail. I recommend these dog training videos that are based on respect and leadership. Show him what you want in a kind manner and be consistent to establish your leadership. First, look down at him. If he gave up at even the slightest hint of a challenge, he wouldnt be so great at herding large groups of cattle, would he? You also have to factor in everything the dog needs, which dont change no matter how you bring him home. Otherwise, Swedish Vallhunds dont need baths all that often. And you can find an awesome crate for your dog here to give them a little more personal space in your apartment. So are breeds with short noses, like Bulldogs or Pugs, since they can't pant as well to cool themselves off. Some dogs may attack or try to dominate other dogs, even if they're love-bugs with people; others would rather play than fight; and some will turn tail and run. He especially loves when theres a goal involved, as this works both his body and his mind. Dog training videos. If they don't get the mental stimulation they need, they'll make their own work--usually with projects you won't like, such as digging and chewing. Thankfully, the Vallhund is a rather healthy dog compared to other breeds. Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. Dogs with a low cold tolerance need to live inside in cool climates and should have a jacket or sweater for chilly walks. As with any breed, be firm and consistent with the Vallhund. The Vallhund is a herding breed, and its instinctive for him to nip at fast-moving objects. He also likes to bark just to let you know hes in a good mood or to chat with you about your day. The Corgi is a better dog for first-time dog owners. A dog who respects you will do what you say and will stop what he's doing when you tell him "No." Adopting a puppy, on the other hand, means you can start with a clean slate. Stranger-friendly dogs will greet guests with wagging tails and nuzzles; others are shy, indifferent, or even aggressive. Ask your vet about your dog's diet and what they recommend for feeding your pooch to keep them at a healthy weight. Some believe he is also related to the Welsh Corgi and Lancashire Heeler we know today. You never know what you are truly getting until he gets there and then its too late. However, shedding does vary greatly among the breeds. Anything whizzing by, such as cats, squirrels, and perhaps even cars, can trigger that instinct. The quality of dog food you buy also makes a difference--the better the dog food, the further it will go toward nourishing your dog and the less of it you'll need to shake into your dog's bowl. In other words, if he gets bored, he may resort to destructive chewing, or he may undo all your hard work training him to stop barking unnecessarily. If you're considering a watchdog, will a city full of suspicious "strangers" put your pup on permanent alert? To prevent painful tears and other problems, trim his nails once or twice a month if your dog doesn't wear them down naturally. Dogs from any breed can be good with children based on their past experiences, training on how to get along with kids, and personality. Trainyour Vallhund for dog sports or give them a job to do around the house, and youll get along fine. He is polite and welcoming while out on walks when you run into the neighbors and their dogs. Most are fine with other animals and especially wonderful with livestock, including horses. He is highly people-oriented and should never be shunted off to the backyard with little human interaction. Some breeds are more free-spirited than others. Other names for the Swedish Vallhund include Videos? What Is Your State's Flea-and-Tick Season? Breed isn't the only factor that goes into affection levels; dogs who were raised inside a home with people around feel more comfortable with humans and bond more easily. His online resource contains Hundreds of Excellent Dog Training Videos that will take you step-by-step through the process of developing a healthy, happy well-behaved dog. Remember that even friendly dogs should stay on a good, strong leash like this onein public! AKC actively advocates for responsible dog ownership and is dedicated to advancing dog sports. See All of Michele's Best-Selling Dog Books, 11 Things You Must Do Right To Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy. The FCI Standard calls the Swedish Vallhund "watchful, alert, and energetic.". Vallhunds usually love children, but their herding instincts can motivate them to nip at a youngsters feet or ankles. Don't insert anything into the ear canal; just clean the outer ear. If you can hear them clicking on the floor, they're too long. Go with a low-sensitivity dog. Aside from this, though, the Vallhund is a pretty easy dog to groom. Specifically, Swedish Vallhunds can suffer from retinopathy, otherwise known as Progressive Retinal Atrophy, which is a hereditary condition that can lead to blindness. Although these are purebred dogs, you may find them in the care of shelters or rescue groups. In fact, hes great with other animals in general, which is part of what makes him such a great farm dog. His energy level requires more training, socializing, and exercise than a first-time dog owner may be able to handle. Note: Our Health is #1 Priority. I recommend that you get your Swedish Vallhund involved in obedience classes at the intermediate or advanced level, agility (an obstacle course for dogs), tracking, or herding. The long and low Swedish Vallhund, Viking Dog of ancient legend, is a smart and sociable herder of dense coat and boundless energy. Vallhunds will create games to entertain themselves and their people, but its better if you channel their brains and activity level more formally, through training, dog sports and activities such as hiking or making therapy visits. Ideally, with his activity level, the Swedish Cattle This is because the Vallhund is not the best dog for someone who has never owned a dog before. You can train him to be more discriminate with his barking, however, to learn when the appropriate time is to use his bark. While this can be useful if an intruder approaches the premises, its rather annoying when its all the dog does all day because he catches something out of the corner of his eye. Her mother lovedCollies, and so Kailyn grew up with three of them throughout her childhood including a blonde one who was half-blind! But if you are an active person and experienced dog owner who enjoys hiking or long walks and will appreciate this dogs companionship in whatever you do; hes definitely a dog to consider. This doesn't mean that every dog of that breed will develop those diseases; it just means that they're at an increased risk. The Swedish Vallhund does well with the occasional brushing. Like every dog, the Vallhund needs early socialization exposure to many different people, sights, sounds and experiences ideally before he is four months old. You'll get your best match if you take your dog-owning experience into account as you choose your new pooch. The breed is generally healthy; although, they can fall victim to a hereditary eye disease called retinopathy. Swedish Vallhunds do not respond well to harsh verbal or physical corrections. True to their heritage as a working farm dog breed, the Swedish Vallhund is an intelligent and alert companion. Even better, he knows how to make you laugh and get you through any rough times you may be facing. Hundreds of Excellent Dog Training Videos, A Complete Guide to Getting the Best French Bulldog Price, Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie) Want to Own One? The Vallhund is not, in any way, shape, or form, the kind of dog you get if youre an inactive person. Just be aware of the extra costs that can come from the medical care they require, as well as the limited time you have with them. Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. built long and low to the ground, but with a robust body, heavy bone, and a working dog temperament, Is spirited and athletic, but needs only moderate exercise to maintain his muscle tone, Combines the working intelligence of a herding breed with the playful nature of a spitz, Is less "bossy" than a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, but less "mellow" than a Cardigan Welsh Corgi, Is polite with guests and makes a sensible watchdog, Is usually fine with other family pets, and especially good with livestock, Providing lots of mental stimulation that fulfills his desire to work and gives him something productive to do, Destructiveness when bored or left alone too much, Territorial aggression toward dogs and cats he doesn't know, Strong-willed mind of his own, requiring a confident owner who can take charge, Chasing and nipping at things that move: children, joggers, other animals, bikes, cars, Waiting lists (hard to find) and a high price tag, You can avoid some negative traits by choosing an ADULT dog from an, If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the, Finally, you can avoid some negative traits by. Breeds that need a lot of exercise are good for outdoorsy, active people, or those interested in training their dog to compete in a high-energy dog sport, such as agility. Try to use praise more than treats to prevent overeating and the weight gain that comes from it. If you're adopting a puppy, it's a good idea to find out which genetic illnesses are common to the breed you're interested in. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies. Click here for more information on this characteristic. the Vikingarnas Dog. Consider adoption if youd like to bring one of these dogs home. It causes degeneration of the retinal photoreceptor cells and may lead to complete vision loss. Else, the Vallhund is a genuinely nice dog who sees no problems with anyone he meets animal or otherwise. Classes? If you can't, he needs less food and more exercise. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. In fact, a Vallhund in the show ring is meant to appear in an untrimmed, natural state. You can use the breeder finder on the American Kennel Clubs website to find recommended breeders in your area. Give the Vallhund a thorough brushing every week. is a herding breed, and its instinctive for him to nip at fast-moving objects. Make grooming a positive experience filled with praise and rewards, and you'll lay the groundwork for easy veterinary exams and other handling when he's an adult. If you want a heat-sensitive breed, your dog will need to stay indoors with you on warm or humid days, and you'll need to be extra cautious about exercising your dog in the heat. However, different Vallhunds have different needs, so while one may be okay with moderate exercise, another may require a more vigorous regimen. Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don't all need the same amount of food. Kailyn has worked as a professional freelance writer since 2012, and during that time she has written about nearly every dog breed imaginable. A good way to find a reputable one is to check the webpage for the Swedish Vallhund Club of America. Molly, dearly loved by the Polglase family. If he gets the activity he needs, the Vallhund is happy in any environment, from city condo to country estate. Note: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. An anxious dog can be very destructive--barking, whining, chewing, and otherwise causing mayhem. Badger. happy smile! An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs. Some breeds sound off more often than others. You can find a great jacket for your dog here! Handle his paws frequently dogs are touchy about their feet and look inside his mouth. Experts have traced the first appearance of this breed all the way back to the 8th or 9th century. Young children and dogs of any breed should always be supervised by an adult and never left alone together, period. This handy guide will help you recognize the symptoms of the health problems above. Copyright 2000-2022 by Michele Welton. Mouthy dogs are more likely to use their mouths to hold or "herd" their human family members, and they need training to learn that it's fine to gnaw on chew toys, but not on people. Clearances should be in the form of an eye exam by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist with the results registered with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals and an OFA or Pennhip evaluation of the hips. Perhaps the most important thing to note about the Swedish Vallhund temperament is that its not for everyone especially first-time dog owners. He loves his people and wants to be with them as much as possible. make a great pet, provided you keep him busy. However, he can also He has a higher energy level than many other breeds, and he will simply go out of his mind if you dont give him a particular task to do. Theyre active dogs who need equally active pet parents. Breeds that were originally used for bird hunting, on the other hand, generally won't chase, but you'll probably have a hard time getting their attention when there are birds flying by. Expect breeders to have up-to-date health clearances certifying that a puppys parents are free of eye disease and hip dysplasia. The Vallhunds short legs belie his agility and speed. Will the local wildlife literally drive your dog wild? See Dogs Not Well Suited to Apartment Living, See Dogs Who Are Good For Experienced Owners, Click here to see Dogs Poorly Suited For Cold Weather, See Dogs Who Are Less Friendly To Strangers, Click Here To See Dogs Who Shed Very Little, The Swedish Vallhund bears a strong resemblance to the, A Swedish Vallhunds tail may be long, stubby or bobbed. Dogs who lived with their littermates and mother until at least six to eight weeks of age and who spent lots of time playing with other dogs during puppyhood, are more likely to have good canine social skills. **All dogs are individuals. Sure, it might be easier to plop his food dish down once a day and let him eat whenever he wants, but its not healthy. The Swedish Vallhund is energetic, playful and loving. They can learn quickly, however, that this behavior is not permitted. Some breeds bond very closely with their family and are more prone to worry or even panic when left alone by their owner. Dogs who were bred for jobs that require decision making, intelligence, and concentration, such as herding livestock, need to exercise their brains, just as dogs who were bred to run all day need to exercise their bodies. If you're considering a hound, would you find their trademark howls musical or maddening? Since the beginning, the Vallhund has demonstrated that he is a fantastic watchdog, guard dog, and herder. Thats not acceptable when hes grabbing at a childs pants leg, however, or chasing a bicyclist or kid on a skateboard. He loves hiking with you, or herding animals. No matter what the breed or breed type, all dogs have strong jaws, sharp pointy teeth, and may bite in stressful circumstances. If you go the adoption route, the adoption fee should run you about $150. The Vallhund is calm and adaptable, making him suited to many different home environments as long as he gets plenty of daily exercise. If you're going to share your home with a dog, you'll need to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothes and in your house. So, if you're not experienced at trimming dog nails, ask a vet or groomer for pointers. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. A Swedish Vallhund may not be right for you. Read more about Swedish Vallhund Training. Answer a few simple questions and find the right dog for you, Compare up to 5 different breeds side by side, Browse the AKC Marketplace to find the right puppy for you, Browse our extensive library of dog names for inspiration, Find out the best and worst foods for your dog and which to avoid. Breeds with very short coats and little or no undercoat or body fat, such as Greyhounds, are vulnerable to the cold. At times, especially during training, he may even try to manipulate you to get his way. All rights reserved. And unfortunately, theres no way to know until its too late. In fact, its a character trait that many people say defines this breed: his willingness to work with his trainer. These breeds generally aren't a good fit for homes with smaller pets that can look like prey, such as cats, hamsters, or small dogs. Some breeds do fine with a slow evening stroll around the block. This dog can really move! It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Train him that he should only bark when necessary, not when a leaf or blade of glass moves in his direction. Small, delicate, and potentially snappy dogs such as Chihuahuas aren't always so family-friendly. These rugged cattle dogs are known for their zest for life, unique vocalizations, and cheerful demeanor. Do you live in housing with noise restrictions? Does the Smallest Puppy in a Litter Stay the Smallest? Here in the U.S. were more familiar with his cousin, the Corgi. Shampooand blow dry him, then brush him. Despite the exercise they get, it is rather easy for this Swedish Cattle Dog to become overweight. Do you have young kids, throw lots of dinner parties, play in a garage band, or lead a hectic life? All. Theres a reason Vallhund owners refer to him as the epitome of a large dog in a tiny body! While he sounds ideal, with his medium size, athleticism, and happy personality, the Vallhund is not a breed for everyone. But there are countless senior dogs who you can just see in their faces truly appreciate having a home to call their own in their golden years.
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