Swedish Vallhund — breed guide
Swedish Vallhund — temperament, grooming, exercise, heat tolerance and care, from the Leash Life breed guide.
At a glance
- Group
- herding
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 9–16 kg (20–35 lb)
- Life span
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Harsh double coat
Living with a Swedish Vallhund
- High energy — needs real exercise every day, not a stroll.
- Regular grooming — brushing a few times a week.
- Heavy shedding, especially in season.
- Quick to learn.
- Barks readily.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Typically lives happily with a cat.
- Suits apartment living, given its daily walks.
- A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
- Average heat tolerance.
- Built for cold weather.
Temperament
Watchful · Energetic · Friendly · Vocal
Health to watch
- Hip dysplasia
- Retinopathy
- Patellar luxation
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a Swedish Vallhund good with kids?
Generally yes. Swedish Vallhunds are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Swedish Vallhund good with cats?
Usually yes. Swedish Vallhunds typically settle well with a resident cat — introduce them slowly and give the cat a high perch and a way out of the room.
How much exercise does a Swedish Vallhund need?
An hour or more of proper exercise every day.
Can a Swedish Vallhund handle hot weather?
About average — use normal hot-day sense.
Leash Life keeps a Swedish Vallhund's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.