Boston Terrier vs Swedish Vallhund

Non-Sporting · Small vs Herding · Small

Quick take
  • Swedish Vallhund is the larger breed at 20–35 lbs (males) vs 12–25 lbs for the Boston Terrier.
  • The Swedish Vallhund typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Swedish Vallhund has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Boston Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBoston TerrierSwedish Vallhund
Group
Non-SportingHerding
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
USASweden
Height (male)
15–17"12.5–13.75"
Height (female)
15–17"11.5–12.75"
Weight (male)
12–25 lbs20–35 lbs
Weight (female)
12–25 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.
High (4/5)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.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)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
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier is a friendly, bright, amusing 'American Gentleman' in a tuxedo coat — born in Boston, the original AKC breed. Originally from USA, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 12–25 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, bright, amusing.

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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Boston Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Eye problems
  • Patellar luxation
  • Allergies

Swedish Vallhund health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders