Swedish Vallhund vs Japanese Spitz
Breed Compatibility
85% Compatible
Energy Level
Swedish Vallhund: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Japanese Spitz: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Swedish Vallhund: Eager to Please1.0
Japanese Spitz: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Swedish Vallhund: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Japanese Spitz: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Swedish Vallhund5/5
Japanese Spitz3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Japanese Spitz3/5
Good with Strangers
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Japanese Spitz3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
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
Japanese Spitz
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Dental Issues: Tooth decay risk
Allergies: Skin sensitivities
Eye Problems: Tear duct concerns
Pros & Cons Comparison
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
Japanese Spitz
Pros
Excellent family companion
Adaptable to various living situations
Low maintenance health needs
Good with children
Cons
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Moderate shedding
May be reserved with strangers
Swedish Vallhund Fun Fact
Swedish Vallhunds were nearly extinct in the 1940s but were saved by the efforts of one breeding pair!
Japanese Spitz Fun Fact
Despite their fluffy white coat, Japanese Spitz are surprisingly low-maintenance and self-cleaning!
Heritage & Purpose
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.
Japanese Spitz
Origin:
Developed in Japan during the 1920s and 1930s by breeding various spitz-type dogs. Valued as companion dogs and show dogs, particularly admired for their striking appearance.
Special Considerations
Swedish Vallhund
Regular grooming during shedding seasons, daily exercise requirements, and early socialization to manage herding instincts are essential care aspects.
Japanese Spitz
Regular brushing needed for coat maintenance. Moderate exercise requirements must be met daily. Watch for common health issues like patellar luxation.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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