Swedish Vallhund
Temperament
Friendly, Energetic, Watchful
[3]Swedish farm dog
The UKC standard traces the breed to eighth-century Sweden, where it worked mainly as a cattle-herding farm dog. It says the breed was close to extinction in 1942, then revived from remaining dogs and recognised by the Swedish Kennel Club in 1943.
[1]Build and identification
Small but sturdy, this Spitz-type dog has a wedge-shaped head and erect ears. The UKC standard gives a height-to-body-length ratio of 2:3; its short legs and agility suited its work moving cattle.
[1]Coat and harness markings
Its water-repellent double coat has a harsh, close-lying outer coat and a dense, soft undercoat. The UKC standard accepts sable shades of grey, red and yellow-brown and describes a lighter “harness” band running from the withers toward the elbow.
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