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Swedish Vallhund Dog Breed Facts
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Breed: Swedish Vallhund
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Also Called: Vasgotaspets, Vallhund
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Height: The Swedish Vallhund is about 12-14 inches tall.
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Weight: The Swedish Vallhund weighs between 23-35 lbs.
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Colors: The Swedish Vallhund can be any shade of gray, red or yellow/brown sable or any combination of these colors as long as they are sabled. A "blue" coat may occasionally be seen but it is very undesirable.
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Physical Appearance: The Swedish Vallhund is a small and sturdy dog. It has a wedge-shaped head and prick ears. The short-medium length coat is close-fitting and hard. The tail may be natural or bobbed.
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Temperament/Personality: The Swedish Vallhund is intelligent, alert and full of energy. This breed of dog matures slowly. It may not mature as late as four years of age. The Swedish Vallhund dog is friendly, active, and eager to please. This breed of dog loves children and other dogs.
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Care: The Swedish Vallhund requires minimal grooming. Brush the dog occasionally and bathe it as necessary.
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Health Concerns/Problems: The Swedish Vallhund dog breed has experienced the following health problems: Hip Dysplasia, Retinal Dysplasia, Patellar Luxation, Hypothyroidism, Progressive Retinal Atrophy—(PRA), and Cataracts.
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Training: The Swedish Vallhund does well in training for obedience, agility, and tracking.
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Activity: The Swedish Vallhund requires plenty of mental and physical exercise.
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Life Span: The average lifespan of the Swedish Vallhund is 12-15 years.
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Litter Size: The average litter size of the Swedish Vallhund is 9 puppies.
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Country of Origin: The Swedish Vallhund originated in Sweden.
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Brief History: The Swedish Vallhund dates back to eighth century Sweden. It is a very old Swedish Spitz-type dog that is Wolfish in all but size. The breed worked as farm dogs, primarily herding cattle and was nearly extinct in 1942 when Count Bjorn Von Rosen and K. G. Zettersten made an effort to revive the breed. They found just a few, five bitches and one dog of acceptable breed type which were the foundation of the breed that you see today. The standard was written by Count Von Rosen. The original name for the native Swedish breed was the ?Swedish Shepherd Dog?. But in 1964, the name in Sweden was changed to "Vasgotaspets," after the province of Vastergotland. Vasgotaspets means "a small Spitz from the West Goths". In Sweden, it is believed that the Vallhund traveled to Wales with Viking raiders and became the ancestor of the Corgi breeds.
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