As the name suggests, the Danish-Swedish Farmdog originates from Denmark and Sweden and its main purpose is to guard the people and the animals in farms. Besides guarding and catching rats, the breed is also used in hunting, as it was obtained through the crossing of the Pinscher breeds and the British white terriers. The breed got its name in 1987, but had been used as a working dog breed for centuries, known under the names of rottehund, meaning rat dog and Skaansk Terrier in Sweden. The oldest references date back to the 1700s, in countries like Great Britain, Germany, France, but, mostly Scandinavia.
Not very big in size, measuring between 30-39 centimeters, but with a compact body weighing between 7-12 kilograms, the dog of this breed can be trusted to guard its home. Due to its appearance, it is often mistaken for a Jack Russell or a Fox Terrier.
The coat is smooth and short, which means it does not require daily brushing and should be bathed only when necessary. This breed sheds a little during the year, having a seasonal heavy shedding. The coat is mostly colored in white, having one or more markings of a different color: black, brown, tan and fawn.
The Danish-Swedish Farmdog has a gentle temperament, being used even as a therapy dog. Very friendly and sociable, it will make the perfect companion for children, as it loves to play. Unlike terriers, it will do its job well, but remain calm and affectionate, at the same time. It seems like the breed has inherited more characteristics from the pinscher family. It also gets along with other pets, but should not be trusted with small animals, such as hamsters or pet birds.
It is a quick learner and an obedient dog that can be easily trained. A consistent and patient owner that can be a firm leader will do just fine. The training should start at an early age, when it can already learn tricks and be trained for sports and competitions. It can be used in sports like flyball and dog agility, going to ground and earthdog trials, but also lure coursing, as it is very fast and agile. Being very entertaining, it was even used in circus acts, as a companion to clowns.
This breed has a lot of energy, which means it requires exercise and even better, having a task to fulfill, like herding. Although a yard is recommended, it could do well with life in an apartment, as long as it is properly exercised. Daily walks and other activities, of at least one hour, are necessary for a healthy dog. It should not be kept unleashed when walked, as it may have the tendency of chasing small animals.
Another good thing about this breed is the fact that there are no specific health problems. The life expectancy is of 10 to 15 years.
Lively and intelligent, always active and alert, the Danish-Swedish Farmdog is the perfect watch dog and the ideal companion for any family.
