Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Swedish Vallhund
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Swedish Vallhund: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Agreeable0.6
Swedish Vallhund: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Swedish Vallhund: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Luxury
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Swedish Vallhund5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog3/5
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Good with Strangers
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Bloat: Serious digestive emergency
Eye Problems: Various hereditary issues
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Splenic Torsion: Emergency condition
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
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Pros
Loyal and devoted to family
Excellent watchdog capabilities
Good with children
Strong and athletic
Low grooming needs
Cons
Heavy shedding seasonally
Not apartment-friendly
Can be stubborn
Expensive to feed
Short lifespan
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
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their massive size, these gentle giants were known as 'poor man's horse' in Swiss farming communities.
Swedish Vallhund Fun Fact
Swedish Vallhunds were nearly extinct in the 1940s but were saved by the efforts of one breeding pair!
Heritage & Purpose
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Origin:
Swiss farmers utilized these dogs in the Alps during the 1800s for drafting, herding, and guarding livestock. Their strength and versatility made them invaluable working companions.
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
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Needs early socialization and training. Regular exercise essential. Watch for signs of bloat and joint issues. Climate sensitivity in hot weather requires monitoring.
Swedish Vallhund
Regular grooming during shedding seasons, daily exercise requirements, and early socialization to manage herding instincts are essential care aspects.