Swedish Vallhund — size comparison

The Swedish Vallhund, or Västgötaspets, is a low, powerful dog with an elongated body and erect ears. Greyish or reddish hair has paler markings, particularly on the muzzle, chest and legs. Despite short limbs it moves efficiently and quickly. Its build somewhat resembles a Corgi's, but it is a distinct Swedish breed.

It descends from cattle-working dogs of western Sweden. After their numbers fell greatly, Björn von Rosen and Karl Gustaf Zetterstén began searching for survivors in the nineteen-forties. Dogs found around Vara formed the foundation of organised breeding. Resemblance to Welsh Corgis prompted hypotheses about historical contacts, but the precise direction of any possible relationship was not established.

It is energetic, courageous and highly attentive to human actions. It readily undertakes shared tasks, quickly notices moving people or animals and may comment vocally on events. In the family it can be affectionate and playful. It may suggest another activity, return for encouragement and remain engaged in play for a long time.

Measurement sources

• Wzorzec i idealna wysokość — FCI
• Orientacyjna masa — AKC
• AKC — długość życia, pielęgnacja i historia