Swedish Vallhund

Said to have originated with the Vikings over 1000 years ago in Sweden, the breed name is derived from their origin. The Swedish Vallhund was previously known as the “Vikingarnas Hund” or the “Viking Dog”. While documentation is scarce, present findings indicate that this sturdy canine was taken to Wales and mixed with the Corgi breed, due to the similarities. This dog also has ties to the Spitz family. The original purpose of this clever dog was to work on farms as a sheep herder, nipping the ankles of the flock to catch their attention. Their short size allowed them to easily nip the ankles while remaining unharmed due to their agility. In 1942, Mr. Bjorn von Rosen of the Swedish Kennel Club worked to save older Swedish breeds and launched a breeding program with the Swedish Vallhunds. In 1974, the first of the breed was imported to England. In 1980, the Swedish Vallhund Society received approval from the United Kennel Club and was then formed. In 1985, the first two Swedish Vallhunds were imported to the state of California. During the same year, Marilyn Thell fell in love with these energetic pups while visiting England and so, brought two more to the United States. In 1986, the first litter of the breed was whelped by Jonricker Kenner. They have been part of the Foundation Stock Service since 1999. In 2005, they were approved to compete in the American Kennel Club Miscellaneous Class. In 2006, this delightful breed became eligible to participate in AKC Herding Events and became eligible for AKC registration in early 2007. In mid-2007, they were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club.