Overview: The Swedish Vallhund is a great companion breed. It is smart and playful and loves to be with its master. It is a good watchdog but is not endowed with guard dog skills. This breed has a lot of energy and loves to run around, inside or out. Also, it can be a good pet for those that live in confined areas.

Temperament: This is a responsible breed and respectable companion. The Swedish Vallhund is both intelligent and affectionate. It is social and loves to get attention. It usually enjoys the company of other dogs and pets and is good around children. This dog can be a great watch dog and is good at ratting.

History: The Swedish Vallhund is related to the Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. It was brought to Wales by the Vikings during the 9th century and was known as the Vikingarnas Hund, meaning Viking Dog. Its name was later changed to Vallhund which translated into English means Herding Dog. It was used to herd cattle, serve as a watchdog, and to hunt down small animals.  The popularit of this breed is increasing in Europe.

Names: The Swedish Vallhund is also known as the Vastgotaspets, Vaestgoetaspets, Vallhund, and the Swedish Cattle Dog.

Groups: The Swedish Vallhund was formally recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2007 and assigned to the Herding Group.

Physical Characteristics: The average adult Swedish Vallhund is around 12 to 16 inches in height, and should weigh between 25 and 35 lb. It is a small, short legged dog that is low to the ground. The head is long with a square looking muzzle when viewed from the side. The ears are mobile and the eyes are oval and of medium size.

Care: This dog is usually active and should be allowed to he activity throughout the day. Daily walks are recommended to keep this dog in shape and to use its energy. It can survive living in apartments and it is active enough inside that it would do fine without a yard. The coat is medium-length and is easy to groom. Combing and brushing should be all that is needed from time to time.