Swedish Vallhund vs Old English Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
96% Compatible
Energy Level
Swedish Vallhund: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Old English Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Swedish Vallhund: Eager to Please1.0
Old English Sheepdog: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Swedish Vallhund: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Old English Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Swedish Vallhund5/5
Old English Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Old English Sheepdog3/5
Good with Strangers
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Old English Sheepdog3/5
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
Old English Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: PRA and cataracts
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalance
Joint Problems: Elbow dysplasia
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
Old English Sheepdog
Pros
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Intelligent and trainable
Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
Heavy shedding
High grooming requirements
Can be stubborn
Requires significant exercise
Swedish Vallhund Fun Fact
Swedish Vallhunds were nearly extinct in the 1940s but were saved by the efforts of one breeding pair!
Old English Sheepdog Fun Fact
Their shaggy coat earned them the nickname 'Bobtail,' despite actually having a naturally long tail!
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.
Old English Sheepdog
Origin:
Developed in western England during the 1800s, these dogs expertly drove cattle and sheep to market across the countryside, earning their reputation as skilled herding companions.
Special Considerations
Swedish Vallhund
Regular grooming during shedding seasons, daily exercise requirements, and early socialization to manage herding instincts are essential care aspects.
Old English Sheepdog
Regular grooming sessions essential to prevent matting. Needs consistent exercise routine and early socialization. Monitor for signs of overheating in warm weather.
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