Anatolian Shepherd vs Swedish Vallhund

Working · Giant vs Herding · Small

Quick take
  • Anatolian Shepherd is the larger breed at 110–150 lbs (males) vs 20–35 lbs for the Swedish Vallhund.
  • The Swedish Vallhund typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Swedish Vallhund has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Swedish Vallhund is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAnatolian ShepherdSwedish Vallhund
Group
WorkingHerding
Size
GiantSmall
Origin
TurkeySweden
Height (male)
29"12.5–13.75"
Height (female)
27"11.5–12.75"
Weight (male)
110–150 lbs20–35 lbs
Weight (female)
80–120 lbs20–35 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–13 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediummedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Anatolian Shepherd

The Anatolian Shepherd is a loyal, independent, reserved livestock guardian from Turkey — works alone protecting flocks from wolves. Originally from Turkey, this giant working breed typically weighs 110–150 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, independent, reserved.

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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Anatolian Shepherd health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Swedish Vallhund health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders