"Barking rules!"
Looking for an athletic pal and watchful protector? The Swedish Vallhund may fit the bill. This breed has endless energy, a loud bark, and a craving for affection. If you can manage their barking and keep them busy, a Vallhund could be a fun friend for the whole family.
The Swedish Vallhund is a lively, smart breed that’s eager to please. Their watchful personalities make them well suited to be watchdogs, but they could become bark-happy if they aren’t trained properly. Vallhunds need to be kept busy and crave attention, whether it’s a hug, special treat, or playtime. They’re loving dogs, though, and will show plenty of affection in return.
The Swedish Vallhund has a medium, harsh, tight topcoat with a soft, dense undercoat. These dogs come in gray, red-brown, red-yellow, or gray-brown. Vallhunds are average shedders and don’t require much grooming. During shedding season, they need to be brushed daily to remove dead hair from the undercoat, but during other times of year, an occasional brushing and bath is all they need to maintain their mane.
Vallhunds tend to be friendly with children and other animals, but they’re suspicious around strangers and new people. Socialization can help them warm up to the right people and curtail their pesky habits, like barking too much and nipping at the heels. These dogs enjoy being outside but should primarily live indoors.
Swedish Vallhunds are energetic dogs that are very athletic. They need to be taken on a daily walk and given room to run and play. Vallhunds also do well at dog sports, so if you’re up for it, agility activities and games can be a good way to get their blood pumping.