Norfolk Terrier vs Swedish Vallhund
Terrier · Small vs Herding · Small
Norfolk TerrierSmall
A fearless, alert, gregarious drop-eared terrier — one of the smallest working terriers, fox-bolter.
Weight: 11–12 lbsLifespan: 12–16 years
Swedish VallhundSmall
A friendly, energetic, watchful Viking Spitz — Sweden's 'Wolf Dog of the Vikings', resembles a Corgi.
Weight: 20–35 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Swedish Vallhund is the larger breed at 20–35 lbs (males) vs 11–12 lbs for the Norfolk Terrier.
- • The Norfolk Terrier typically lives longer (12–16 years).
- • The Norfolk Terrier sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Norfolk Terrier | Swedish Vallhund |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Herding |
Size | Small | Small |
Origin | England | Sweden |
Height (male) | 9–10" | 12.5–13.75" |
Height (female) | 9–10" | 11.5–12.75" |
Weight (male) | 11–12 lbs | 20–35 lbs |
Weight (female) | 11–12 lbs | 20–35 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–16 years | 12–15 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. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very Low (1/5) | 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 | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | medium |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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About the Norfolk Terrier
The Norfolk Terrier is a fearless, alert, gregarious drop-eared terrier — one of the smallest working terriers, fox-bolter. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 11–12 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as fearless, alert, gregarious.
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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Norfolk Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye problems
Swedish Vallhund health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders