Swedish Vallhund vs Labrador Retriever
Breed Compatibility
90% Compatible
Energy Level
Swedish Vallhund: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Labrador Retriever: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Swedish Vallhund: Eager to Please1.0
Labrador Retriever: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Swedish Vallhund: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Labrador Retriever: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Swedish Vallhund5/5
Labrador Retriever5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Labrador Retriever5/5
Good with Strangers
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Labrador Retriever5/5
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
Labrador Retriever
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
PRA: Progressive eye deterioration
Exercise-Induced Collapse: Activity limit
Bloat: Digestive emergency risk
Heart Issues: Cardiac health 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
Labrador Retriever
Pros
Excellent family dog
Highly trainable
Great with children
Versatile working ability
Cons
Heavy shedding
High exercise needs
Prone to weight gain
Chewing tendency in puppyhood
Swedish Vallhund Fun Fact
Swedish Vallhunds were nearly extinct in the 1940s but were saved by the efforts of one breeding pair!
Labrador Retriever Fun Fact
Labrador Retrievers have a special gene that makes them obsessed with food, contributing to their trainability!
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.
Labrador Retriever
Origin:
Developed in Newfoundland during the 1800s, these dogs worked alongside fishermen retrieving nets and fish, later refined in England as sporting and hunting companions.
Special Considerations
Swedish Vallhund
Regular grooming during shedding seasons, daily exercise requirements, and early socialization to manage herding instincts are essential care aspects.
Labrador Retriever
Regular grooming needed during heavy shedding seasons. Exercise requirements must be met daily. Weight management crucial to prevent obesity-related health issues.
Related Comparisons
Same Group
Swedish Vallhund vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Swedish Vallhund vs Boykin Spaniel →Similar Size
Swedish Vallhund vs Miniature Bull Terrier →