Afghan Hound vs Swedish Vallhund

Hound · Large vs Herding · Small

Quick take
  • Afghan Hound is the larger breed at 60 lbs (males) vs 20–35 lbs for the Swedish Vallhund.
  • The Afghan Hound typically lives longer (12–18 years).
  • The Afghan Hound sheds less.
  • The Swedish Vallhund is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAfghan HoundSwedish Vallhund
Group
HoundHerding
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
AfghanistanSweden
Height (male)
27"12.5–13.75"
Height (female)
25"11.5–12.75"
Weight (male)
60 lbs20–35 lbs
Weight (female)
50 lbs20–35 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–18 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is an aloof, dignified, ancient sighthound — the supermodel of the dog world with a flowing silken coat. Originally from Afghanistan, this large hound breed typically weighs 60 lbs and lives 12–18 years. Breeders describe them as aloof, dignified, independent.

About the Swedish Vallhund

The Swedish Vallhund is a friendly, energetic, watchful Viking Spitz — Sweden's 'Wolf Dog of the Vikings', resembles a Corgi. Originally from Sweden, this small herding breed typically weighs 20–35 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, energetic, watchful.

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Afghan Hound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism

Swedish Vallhund health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders