Swedish Vallhund
Energetic, alert, and affectionate, this breed thrives as an active family companion. Compact and spirited, it combines a love of play with a keen herding instinct.
Breed Characteristics
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.
HEIGHT
33–35 cm (male)
31–33 cm (female)
WEIGHT
11–16 kg (male)
9–14 kg (female)
LIFE EXPECTANCY
12–15 years
Swedish Vallhund: Breed snapshot
Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance
Key Breed Characteristics
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Species
Canis lupus familiaris
Diet
Omnivore
"A Swedish Vallhund isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."
Temperament & personality
Understanding Swedish Vallhund's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.
Personality Overview
The Swedish Vallhund is alert, friendly, and loyal, often forming strong bonds with family members while remaining reserved with strangers. They are adaptable and generally get along well with children and other pets.
Key Personality Traits
Sociable and enjoys interacting with people and pets
Quick learner and easily understands new commands
Highly energetic and needs regular activity
Likes games and interactive play sessions
Adjusts well to different living environments
Strengths
- Alert and reliable watchdog instincts
- Highly intelligent and quick to learn
- Strong herding drive and agility
- Loyal and affectionate with family
- Generally robust and healthy breed
Challenges
- Needs daily physical and mental exercise
- Prone to barking if under-stimulated
- Can be reserved with strangers
- May herd children or other pets
- Sheds heavily seasonally
Protect your Swedish Vallhund
Swedish Vallhund are active and energetic, but they can develop hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. Get peace of mind with PetSecur's comprehensive coverage.
Intelligence & exercise needs
Swedish Vallhunds are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.
🧠 Intelligence & training
Trainability
Quick learner
Overall rating
Swedish Vallhunds are highly intelligent and quick learners, responding well to consistent, positive training methods. Their eagerness to please and natural problem-solving ability make them suitable for various canine activities.
Trainable Tasks:
🏃 Exercise & energy levels
Daily Exercise
60–75 minutes daily
recommended per day
This breed has high energy levels and requires daily physical exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and content. Regular walks, play, and training sessions help prevent boredom and unwanted behaviors.
Recommended Activities:
Is this breed right for you?
Swedish Vallhunds are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Swedish Vallhund would fit well in your home.
First-time Owner
Intelligent but may challenge inexperienced owners with stubbornness
Apartment Living
Active breed needs more exercise than most apartments allow
Active Lifestyle
Thrives with regular activity and enjoys participating in family outings
Kids
Generally patient but supervision with small children is important
Multiple Pets
Can coexist well if socialized early with other pets
Being Left Alone
Prone to boredom and destructive behavior if left alone too long
Breed comparisons
Wondering how Swedish Vallhunds compare to other popular breeds? Check out our detailed comparison pages.
Frequently Asked Questions about Swedish Vallhund
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about this breed
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