Russian Toy vs Swedish Vallhund
Breed Compatibility
84% Compatible
Energy Level
Russian Toy: Regular Exercise0.6
Swedish Vallhund: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Russian Toy: Agreeable0.6
Swedish Vallhund: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Russian Toy: Weekly Brushing0.4
Swedish Vallhund: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Russian Toy3/5
Swedish Vallhund5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Russian Toy3/5
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Good with Strangers
Russian Toy3/5
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Russian Toy
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Dental Issues: Tooth decay and loss
Eye Problems: Progressive vision loss
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac abnormalities
Bone Fractures: Due to fragile frame
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
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
Russian Toy
Pros
Compact size
Minimal grooming needs
Affectionate nature
Good for apartments
Cons
Fragile build
Can be yappy
Not ideal with young children
Temperature sensitive
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
Russian Toy Fun Fact
Russian Toys are one of the smallest dog breeds, originally developed as both ratters and lap warmers!
Swedish Vallhund Fun Fact
Swedish Vallhunds were nearly extinct in the 1940s but were saved by the efforts of one breeding pair!
Heritage & Purpose
Russian Toy
Origin:
Developed in Russia during the early 20th century as companion dogs for aristocracy, these tiny terriers served as ratters and fashionable lapdogs in urban households.
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
Russian Toy
Requires protection from cold weather, careful handling due to delicate build, and regular dental care. Early socialization helps prevent excessive timidity.
Swedish Vallhund
Regular grooming during shedding seasons, daily exercise requirements, and early socialization to manage herding instincts are essential care aspects.
Shedding
InfrequentShedding
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