Border Terrier vs Swedish Vallhund

Terrier · Small vs Herding · Small

Quick take
  • Swedish Vallhund is the larger breed at 20–35 lbs (males) vs 13–15.5 lbs for the Border Terrier.
  • The Border Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBorder TerrierSwedish Vallhund
Group
TerrierHerding
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
EnglandSweden
Height (male)
13–15"12.5–13.75"
Height (female)
13–15"11.5–12.75"
Weight (male)
13–15.5 lbs20–35 lbs
Weight (female)
11.5–14 lbs20–35 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)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.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Border Terrier

The Border Terrier is an affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 13–15.5 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered.

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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Border Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Heart problems

Swedish Vallhund health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders