Norwegian Elkhound vs Swedish Vallhund
Breed Compatibility
84% Compatible
Energy Level
Norwegian Elkhound: Regular Exercise0.6
Swedish Vallhund: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Norwegian Elkhound: Agreeable0.6
Swedish Vallhund: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Norwegian Elkhound: Weekly Brushing0.4
Swedish Vallhund: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Norwegian Elkhound3/5
Swedish Vallhund5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Norwegian Elkhound3/5
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Good with Strangers
Norwegian Elkhound4/5
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Norwegian Elkhound
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive eye condition
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Sebaceous Cysts: Skin growths
Fanconi Syndrome: Kidney disorder
Glaucoma: Eye pressure 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
Norwegian Elkhound
Pros
Loyal and dependable
Good with families
Excellent watchdog
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
Heavy shedding
Strong hunting instincts
Can be stubborn
Requires regular exercise
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
Norwegian Elkhound Fun Fact
Norwegian Elkhounds can track moose for several days through deep snow, earning them the nickname 'gray ghost of the North.'
Swedish Vallhund Fun Fact
Swedish Vallhunds were nearly extinct in the 1940s but were saved by the efforts of one breeding pair!
Heritage & Purpose
Norwegian Elkhound
Origin:
Nordic hunters relied on these dogs during the Viking Age to track and hunt moose and other large game across Scandinavia's challenging terrain. Their endurance and tracking abilities proved invaluable.
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
Norwegian Elkhound
Regular brushing during shedding seasons, consistent exercise routine, and early socialization are essential. Monitor weight and provide mental stimulation through tracking activities.
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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