Swedish Vallhund vs Working Kelpie
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Swedish Vallhund: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Working Kelpie: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Swedish Vallhund: Eager to Please1.0
Working Kelpie: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Swedish Vallhund: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Working Kelpie: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Swedish Vallhund5/5
Working Kelpie5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Working Kelpie3/5
Good with Strangers
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Working Kelpie5/5
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
Working Kelpie
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal issues
Cerebellar Abiotrophy: Neurological concern
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defects
Cryptorchidism: Reproductive issue
Joint Problems: Working strain impact
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
Working Kelpie
Pros
Exceptional working ability
High intelligence
Strong endurance
Loyal companion
Low grooming needs
Cons
Extremely high exercise needs
Can be too intense for casual owners
Strong herding instincts
May be too energetic for small spaces
Requires constant mental stimulation
Swedish Vallhund Fun Fact
Swedish Vallhunds were nearly extinct in the 1940s but were saved by the efforts of one breeding pair!
Working Kelpie Fun Fact
Working Kelpies can cover up to 50 kilometers in a day while working, showcasing their legendary endurance.
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.
Working Kelpie
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1870s for sheep herding in harsh outback conditions. These dogs revolutionized livestock management through their exceptional working abilities and stamina.
Special Considerations
Swedish Vallhund
Regular grooming during shedding seasons, daily exercise requirements, and early socialization to manage herding instincts are essential care aspects.
Working Kelpie
Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular grooming is minimal but necessary. Health monitoring should focus on eyes and joints due to working strain.
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