History
Swedish Vallhund is believed to be a cross between Welsh Corgis and Scandinavian spitz dogs. It originated in Vastorgotland in Sweden during the 8-9th century. According to the history, Britain’s Vikings brought this dog to Wales in the 9th century. These dogs were used as cattle dogs and watchdogs in western Sweden. Vastgotaspets received the status of this breed from the Swedish Kennel in 1943. Later in 1996, it was registered with the UKC (United Kennel Club) and in 2007 it gained recognition by the AKC (American Kennel Club).
Interesting Facts
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Was about to get extinct in the 1940s, but G. Zettersten and Bjorn von Rosen rescued them
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Swedish Vallhund Club of America is a national bred club which represents this breed in the USA, it was set up in 1987 to preserve them
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This dog is seen on the postage stamps of Russia, Altay, Tajikistan, Nicaragua, and Mali,
Temperament & Personality
This breed loves human accompaniments and is faithful to them. They have a happy, inquisitive, confident and calm nature. Moreover, Swedish Vallhund is malleable and can adjust any living conditions. If they are living an apartment life, they needed regular exercises to remain active. They yap often to interact with their family members and crave for attention. The dog has a humorous personality which keeps the atmosphere entertaining and is an ideal watchdog that informs its owner by barking if they see any suspicious activity in its territory.
Exercise
Swedish Vallhund is an energetic dog and requires a plethora of regular activities. Regular leashed walking or jogging and ample playtime in a yard or park will be adequate for the dog. Owners can also play interactive games like Frisbees or ball games. It will not only keep the dog busy but provide mental stimulation. Indoor games like chew toys, rope toys, balls, etc is also an excellent psychological stimulant for these dogs.
Grooming
Apart from regular brushing, random bathing will keep their coat healthy and dirt free. Their nails grow very fast and overgrown nails result in cracking and splitting. Therefore it will require trimming two to three times a week with a nail clipper. Its ears will retain moisture and wax, which will need cleaning every week, to prevent painful ear infection. Teeth brushing every twice or thrice a week will avert tartar collection and tooth decay.
Health Problems
It is a healthy dog and does not suffer from various diseases, but few dogs may inherit some problems from their parents.
Major Problems:
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Hip Dysplasia
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Retinopathy(hereditary eye disease)
Few dogs might suffer from these diseases, but people can adopt after checking the health clearances. However, Occasional tests and random veteran checkup will keep the dog healthy.
Training
They are easy to train if the training sessions are more enjoyable. This breed is intelligent and smart which likes to learn new tips and tricks. A firm and consistent trainer is crucial to train this dog and proper training can curb its inclination to bark. Obedience training will curb its unwanted or odd behaviors. Due to its herding instinct, it nips the heels of people and to correct this, proper command training is essential. Early socialization will make the puppy learn basic etiquette which is necessary for a family dog. They can participate in different events like herding, fly-ball, tracking, obedience, etc. but only if they achieve proper training.
Feeding
Lifestyle, age, and the dog’s size determine its food. If the dog takes part in the massive activity, it will need more nutritious food and vice versa. Commercial dry dog food 1 to 1.5 cups included with dry foods will be adequate. Divide meals into two to three smaller halves, it will keep the digestion in order.
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