Swedish Vallhund vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Swedish Vallhund and Labrador Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
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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.

Labrador Retriever
Eager, friendly, and intelligent, this breed loves being part of an active family. Their gentle nature and loyalty make them outstanding companions for all ages.
Quick comparison
Medium
11–16 kg
Double coat, harsh outer layer
12–15 years
9–14 kg
High energy
Large
29–36 kg
Short double coat, water-resistant
10–12 years
25–32 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Swedish Vallhund
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
Labrador Retriever
Warm and sociable with people and animals
Quick learner, responds well to training
High stamina, enjoys active pursuits daily
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts easily to new situations and environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Swedish Vallhund
Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Swedish Vallhund
Moderately suitable
Intelligent but may challenge inexperienced owners with stubbornness
Needs space
Active breed needs more exercise than most apartments allow
Excellent match
Thrives with regular activity and enjoys participating in family outings
Good companion
Generally patient but supervision with small children is important
Usually friendly
Can coexist well if socialized early with other pets
Not recommended
Prone to boredom and destructive behavior if left alone too long
Labrador Retriever
Great choice
Patient and eager to please, Labradors are manageable for most first-time owners.
Not ideal
Labradors need space and exercise, so apartments can limit their activity needs.
Perfect fit
High energy and stamina make them excellent for active individuals or families.
Highly suitable
Gentle temperament and playful nature make them safe and loving with young children.
Very friendly
Generally sociable and get along well with other dogs and pets.
Prone to anxiety
Extended alone time can lead to boredom and destructive behaviors in this breed.
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Swedish Vallhund
- 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
Labrador Retriever
- Friendly and sociable with people and dogs
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Excellent with children and families
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
- Generally adaptable to various living situations
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Swedish Vallhund
- 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
Labrador Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- Can become destructive if under-exercised
- Heavy seasonal shedding requires regular grooming
- May develop hip or elbow dysplasia
- Needs significant daily physical activity
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