Finnish Lapphund vs Swedish Vallhund
Breed Compatibility
92% Compatible
Energy Level
Finnish Lapphund: Regular Exercise0.6
Swedish Vallhund: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Finnish Lapphund: Eager to Please1.0
Swedish Vallhund: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Finnish Lapphund: Weekly Brushing0.4
Swedish Vallhund: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Finnish Lapphund4/5
Swedish Vallhund5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Finnish Lapphund3/5
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Good with Strangers
Finnish Lapphund4/5
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Finnish Lapphund
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRCD-PRA: Progressive eye condition
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
GCL: Genetic eye disorder
PHTVL/PHPV: Eye development disorder
RD: Retinal development problems
Swedish Vallhund
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Retinal Dysplasia: Eye development issue
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Swedish Vallhund Retinopathy: Vision
Intervertebral Disk Disease: Spine
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision
Pros & Cons Comparison
Finnish Lapphund
Pros
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Highly trainable
Weather resistant
Adaptable
Cons
Heavy seasonal shedding
Can be vocal
Needs regular exercise
Strong herding instinct
Swedish Vallhund
Pros
Highly trainable
Good with families
Excellent watchdog
Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
High exercise needs
Can be vocal
Seasonal shedding
Strong herding instinct
Finnish Lapphund Fun Fact
Finnish Lapphunds can herd reindeer using subtle body movements and barking patterns unique to the breed.
Swedish Vallhund Fun Fact
Swedish Vallhunds were nearly extinct in the 1940s but were saved by the efforts of one breeding pair!
Heritage & Purpose
Finnish Lapphund
Origin:
Developed by the Sami people in Lapland during the 1940s, these dogs expertly herded reindeer across vast Arctic territories, using their agility and intelligence to manage large herds.
Swedish Vallhund
Origin:
Dating back to the Viking Age in Sweden, these dogs served as versatile farm helpers, excelling in cattle herding and vermin control throughout Västergötland.
Special Considerations
Finnish Lapphund
Regular brushing needed during heavy shedding seasons. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Swedish Vallhund
Regular grooming during shedding seasons, daily exercise requirements, and early socialization to manage herding instincts are essential care aspects.
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