Swedish Vallhund Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Swedish Vallhund is a small, sturdy herding dog with short legs, upright ears and a friendly, alert face. Sometimes called the Viking dog, it has worked Swedish farms for centuries and has a lively, clever character.

Origins and appearance

The breed is thought to date back more than a thousand years, herding cattle by nipping at heels. Vallhunds are low and long, with a wedge-shaped head, a medium-length double coat in gray, red or sable shades and a tail that may be long, short or naturally bobbed. They resemble corgis but belong to the spitz family.

Temperament

Vallhunds are bold, friendly and eager. They are loyal to their family and enjoy being involved. They are alert and bark to announce visitors. They tend to herd by nipping heels. They are generally good with children and other pets when socialized, but need guidance.

Exercise

They need about an hour of daily exercise, with walks and play. They excel at herding, agility and obedience. Mental activity is important. Use a harness, and avoid jumping from heights to protect the back.

Training

They are intelligent and willing. Use positive methods and short, varied sessions. Early socialization helps. Teach a quiet cue and discourage heel nipping. They learn quickly.

Coat and grooming

The coat sheds heavily twice a year and lightly the rest of the time. Brush weekly and daily during shedding. See double coat dog grooming guide. Trim nails, clean ears and brush teeth.

Health considerations

The breed is generally healthy, but topics include:

• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Retinal dysplasia and other eye conditions
• Back problems. See intervertebral disc disease in dogs
• Obesity. See dog obesity risks
• Patellar luxation. See luxating patella in dogs
• Cryptorchidism

Living with a Swedish Vallhund

They suit homes and apartments if exercise is met. They need company and activity.

A typical day

A Vallhund wants a morning walk, training, rest, play and an evening outing. They like to supervise and follow family.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bold and playful. Begin socialization, handling and training. Avoid jumping from heights. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food, grooming tools and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate cold well, but need shade and water in heat. They travel well.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include overfeeding, allowing heel nipping, underexercising and encouraging barking.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip and eye testing, and the parents' temperaments. The breed is uncommon, so expect a wait.

A rare alternative to the corgi

Many people discover the Vallhund after falling for corgis. The Vallhund has a similar body and energy, often with a somewhat lighter build and a more spitz-like face. Both breeds herd, bark and need exercise, so the main difference is rarity: Vallhunds are harder to find, and breeders often keep waiting lists.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Vallhund suits active owners who want a small, clever, herding dog. It may not suit those who want a quiet or independent pet. For the more familiar corgi, see the Pembroke Welsh Corgi.

Everyday handling

Because the breed is low and long, handle it with care. Lift a Vallhund with one hand under the chest and another supporting the hindquarters, rather than hoisting by the front legs. Teach children to do the same, and keep an eye on stairs and furniture. Short, regular nail trims help keep posture comfortable, and a quick check of the ears and paws after outdoor play keeps small problems from growing.

Activities that suit the breed

Herding trials, agility, rally and tricks suit the breed well. Many Vallhunds also enjoy simple scent games, such as finding hidden treats, which tap into their intelligence without stressing the back.

The takeaway

Swedish Vallhunds are bold, short-legged and clever, and they need exercise, training and company.