Rottweiler vs Swedish Vallhund

Working · Large vs Herding · Small

Quick take
  • Rottweiler is the larger breed at 95–135 lbs (males) vs 20–35 lbs for the Swedish Vallhund.
  • The Swedish Vallhund typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Rottweiler sheds less.
  • The Rottweiler is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitRottweilerSwedish Vallhund
Group
WorkingHerding
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
GermanySweden
Height (male)
24–27"12.5–13.75"
Height (female)
22–25"11.5–12.75"
Weight (male)
95–135 lbs20–35 lbs
Weight (female)
80–100 lbs20–35 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
9–10 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)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.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is a loyal, loving, confident guardian — descendant of Roman drover dogs, requires firm training. Originally from Germany, this large working breed typically weighs 95–135 lbs and lives 9–10 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, loving, confident guardian.

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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Rottweiler health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Cancer
  • Bloat

Swedish Vallhund health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders