Alternative Names: Vastgotaspets, Viking dog, Swedish cattle dog, spitz of the West Goths
Country of Origin: Sweden
History: The Swedish vallhund is believed to be an ancient dog, first developed as an all purpose farm dog and cattle herder. It is believed to have been brought to Sweden with the Vikings and may be related to the corgis. It was close to extinction until the mid-twentieth century, when a fancier revitalized the breed. The vallhund is a herder of both cattle and sheep. It was first imported to England in the 1970s and to the U.S. in the 1980s.
Physical Description: This is a sturdy, small or medium size spitz type dog with a rectangular shape. It has a wedge shaped head, black nose, and prick ears. The tail is naturally long or bob or docked. The double coat has a thick undercoat and course outer coat that is gray to red with harness markings and a facial mask.
Height: 12 to 14 inches
Weight: 25 to 35 pounds
Temperament: The vallhund is an alert, bold, curious, and energetic dog. A hard worker, it is intelligent, trainable, and eager to please. It gets along with almost everyone, including children and other animals.
Activity Level: Moderate
Best Owner: The vallhund requires an active owner. It can adapt to a city, suburban, or rural home, provided it receives enough exercise and attention.
Special Needs: Exercise
Possible Health Concerns: Cleft palate, cryptorchidism, hip dysplasia, luxating patellas, retnal dysplasia
