La Swedish Vallhund dog breed It is highly appreciated in its country of origin, Sweden, where they are also called Viking dogs because their origin dates back to the time of the Vikings when they were used as shepherds for livestock and also as protection.
Origin of the Swedish vallhund
It is a dog of its own breed that has its history behind and that preserves its hardworking character, even when at first glance it looks like a mestizo coming from the mixture of several races.
From its origin it is known that it is from Sweden and that the Vikings already used them for herding and protection work, as for the date and place where it first appeared are data that are not very clear. In this country they symbolize the national dog Although it is a small breed, it does very well with cattle, although it is also used as a companion dog. The origin of the race is also a topic that generates discussions and conflicting opinions since there are those who say they are linked to the corgis, a breed of British origin whose body is quite similar, however there is no proof of such a mixture of races.
Features
This dog is medium in size and is distinguished by its shortened legsIt is also robust and generally appears as a rather peculiar compact and elongated dog. In its adult stage it can measure about 30 centimeters to the withers, weighing between 12 and 16 kilograms. Its head stands out for its pair of ears always erect and triangular in shape that seems to be very alert to all the sounds around.
It has wide eyes and although small they are quite expressive and always watching everything in its path, the nose is black, its lips smooth and always tight. The specimens of this breed can have two types of tail, the one that is long that by nature curls in the direction of the back as other dogs do. spitz type, although you can also wear it straight. The other type of tail is usually short and varied in size.
The coat is dense, of medium length and thick, it is present in a superficial layer and a softer lower layer that helps protect it from the low Swedish temperatures. In the neck area is where the cape is usually longest, as well as on the tail, belly and legs. The colors of their coat vary between yellow with shades of gray, reddish, gray, greyish and brown. In the same specimen the coat can be presented in lighter shades in specific areas such as the chest, muzzle and throat, or darker on the sides of the body and also the neck.
Behavior
Its nature has remained unchanged from its origins to the presentTherefore, its character as a shepherd dog, guardian and hunter of small mammals is the same.
But it is not the only thing, since it is that same disposition that you have by nature for work, what makes him a very intelligent, intuitive animal, who continually faces challenges, easy to learn, acquiring all kinds of skills if he has the opportunity. That is why they have been seen to perform quite well on canine agility tracks and also in interactive games. In the family environment, the vallhund is quite an affectionate dog with those who always surround him in addition to protecting them, it is for this reason that in the presence of strangers he can behave in a suspicious way.
In addition, it remains alert to external noises or around the house, which can make him a very barking specimen especially if the house is located in the city. This breed is recognized for being full of energy and therefore it is necessary to provide at least space where it can run, play and exercise or provide it with three walks a day with which it can meet its needs.
Moreover you have to stimulate their mental agility, which will also keep you alert and active in the face of any challenge that comes your way. This is a very active breed dog that needs to learn new things so as not to get bored, avoid this situation with games of mental skill and continuous challenges and you will see how well they respond.
Care
Beyond the diseases that are peculiar to dogs with short limbs and in this elongated shape, it is a fairly healthy breed with no history of hereditary pathologies. The most common diseases that can afflict these specimens are:
- Back ailments, of a muscular and bone nature.
- Hip dysplasia.
The ideal to keep them well cared for and healthy is take them periodically to the veterinary consultationEither for its control of vaccines and for the early detection or prevention of these or other diseases, being able to apply the corresponding treatment.
The double-layered coat of the vallhund deserves some attention, The inner layer protects him from the cold and intense heat, so his coat should not be cut in any of these seasons of the year. Rather, you have to be aware of the shedding season to brush her hair very well in such a way that eliminate the one that is old or dead and thus you avoid that some diseases that affect the skin arrive. Also, it will look nice and shiny.
Many tend to think that for the herding trade this is a fairly short dog, but those who do not know well how this breed acts are wrong to judge it only by its size, since He makes up for his short stature very well with his intelligence and skill.
Over the years it has also become a very well adapted dog to family life, where he shows his intelligence and fidelity at all times, with great opportunities to develop all his intelligence potential with the necessary stimuli.
You also need gymnastics and mental stimulation, so within the daily care you can include both walks and agility games, practicing obedience, tracking and herding tests if you have the space and experience. The nails of these specimens must be trimmed every two weeks, the ears must be checked periodically and especially when they have outdoor activities if necessary they must be cleaned. Teeth must be cleaned daily.