Swedish Vallhund vs Portuguese Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
82% Compatible
Energy Level
Swedish Vallhund: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Portuguese Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Swedish Vallhund: Eager to Please1.0
Portuguese Sheepdog: N/A
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Swedish Vallhund: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Portuguese Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Swedish Vallhund5/5
Portuguese Sheepdog3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Portuguese Sheepdog3/5
Good with Strangers
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Portuguese 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
Portuguese Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
Cataracts: Clouding of eye lens
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
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
Portuguese Sheepdog
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent herding abilities
Good with families
Adaptable to different environments
Cons
Requires extensive exercise
Regular grooming needed
Can be strong-willed
May show herding behaviors
Swedish Vallhund Fun Fact
Swedish Vallhunds were nearly extinct in the 1940s but were saved by the efforts of one breeding pair!
Portuguese Sheepdog Fun Fact
Their distinctive wavy coat naturally developed to protect them from harsh mountain weather conditions.
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.
Portuguese Sheepdog
Origin:
Developed in Portugal during the Middle Ages, these dogs served as skilled herders in mountainous regions, managing sheep and cattle while protecting them from predators.
Special Considerations
Swedish Vallhund
Regular grooming during shedding seasons, daily exercise requirements, and early socialization to manage herding instincts are essential care aspects.
Portuguese Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed for coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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