Photo: Wikimedia Commons contributor · CC BY-SA 3.0 dog breed · 927 on Animalso
Swedish Vallhund
- Animal
- Dog
- Origin
- Sweden
- Height
- 31 cm
About the Swedish Vallhund
The Swedish Vallhund is a dog breed native to Sweden, also known as the Västgötaspets or Swedish cow dog. Its name translates as “herding dog,” reflecting its original work as a drover and herder of cows more than 1,000 years ago. The breed came close to extinction in 1942. Careful breeding and publicity by Swedes Björn von Rosen and K. G. Zettersten helped bring it back from that decline. The Swedish Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1943, using the name Västgötaspets, after Västergötland, the province where the revival took place. The Vallhund has since been recognized and bred in more than ten countries and has gained some popularity. Its listed height is 31. The breed’s Swedish origins and history as a cattle herder are central parts of its background.
What stands out
- Native to Sweden
- Originally bred to herd and drive cows
- Revived through careful breeding
- Recognized by the Swedish Kennel Club in 1943
Worth knowing
- Came close to extinction in 1942
Who it suits
The Swedish Vallhund may interest people looking for a dog breed with Swedish origins and a history of herding and driving cattle.
In short
The Swedish Vallhund has a long history as a Swedish cattle-herding dog and was brought back from near extinction. Its name, revival in Västergötland, and recognition in 1943 are notable parts of its breed history.
More dog breeds from Sweden
Hälleforshund Sweden Photo: Roguesenvogue · CC BY 3.0 
Jämthund Sweden Height 56 cm Photo: Wikimedia Commons contributor · Public domain 
Photo credits9 photographs on this page
- Swedish Vallhund — Wikimedia Commons contributor · CC BY-SA 3.0 · file page
- Drever — Per Killingmo. Norway · CC BY-SA 3.0 · file page
- Hälleforshund — Roguesenvogue · CC BY 3.0 · file page
- Hamiltonstövare — sannse · CC BY-SA 3.0 · file page
- Jämthund — Wikimedia Commons contributor · Public domain · file page
- Norrbottenspets — Wikimedia Commons contributor · CC BY-SA 3.0 · file page
- Schillerstövare — Pleple2000 · CC BY-SA 3.0 · file page
- Smaland Hound — Linathrash · CC BY-SA 3.0 · file page
- Svensk vit älghund — BetacommandBot · CC BY 2.5 · file page
Photographs come from Wikimedia Commons under the licence each one names. How Animalso credits photographs.