Västgötaspets

Table of Contents

Quick Facts

• Ancient Swedish herding breed with a low, sturdy body and a foxlike face that turns heads wherever it goes
• Extremely alert and vocal, making the Västgötaspets an enthusiastic watchdog for home and farm
• Highly intelligent and quick to learn, but can be stubborn if training is not consistent and fair
• Fits well into active families, from countryside homes to city apartments, as long as it gets enough exercise and mental stimulation
• Double coat that copes well with bad weather and sheds seasonally, yet requires surprisingly simple grooming compared with many other herding breeds

Appearance & Coat

The Västgötaspets, also known as the Swedish Vallhund, is a small but sturdy herding dog with a distinctive silhouette. At first glance many people compare the breed to a low-legged wolf or a fox crossed with a corgi. The body is long in relation to height, with strong bone and a level topline that gives an impression of strength and agility rather than fragility. Males and females are similar in general appearance, although males often appear slightly more substantial.

Height at the shoulder is usually around 32 to 34 centimetres for males and a little less for females, with some natural variation. The breed should never look coarse or heavy. Instead, a good Västgötaspets shows a balance between a muscular, workmanlike body and a light, springy movement. Legs are short yet powerful, supporting a body that is built to work close to the ground when herding cattle. Feet are oval and tight, designed to carry the dog over fields, forest tracks, and uneven terrain without difficulty.

One of the most charming features of the breed is the head. The Västgötaspets has a wedge-shaped head with a slightly rounded skull, well-defined stop, and medium-sized, erect ears that give an alert, keen expression. Eyes are dark and oval, often described as bright and intelligent. The expression is lively and curious, matching the dog’s energetic character. Tails can vary. Some Västgötaspets are naturally bobtailed or born with very short tails, while others have full-length tails that are carried in a curve when the dog is attentive.

The coat is a dense double coat that has evolved to protect the dog in harsh Scandinavian weather. The outer coat is medium length, close-fitting, and somewhat harsh to the touch, which helps to repel dirt and moisture. Underneath lies a soft, insulating undercoat that keeps the dog warm in winter and provides some protection from heat in summer, as long as the dog has shade and water. Common colours include various shades of grey, greyish brown, and reddish brown, usually combined with lighter markings on the muzzle, chest, and legs. Darker hairs often form a subtle saddle pattern over the back.

Coat care is quite straightforward compared with many other working breeds. A weekly brush with a slicker or pin brush is usually enough to remove loose hair and keep the coat looking neat. During shedding seasons in spring and autumn, more frequent brushing can help to manage clumps of undercoat that come out in large amounts. Bathing can be kept to a minimum, only when the dog is particularly dirty or smells unpleasant, as overbathing can strip the coat of its natural oils.

Owners are often pleasantly surprised by how easy it is to maintain the coat of a Västgötaspets. Regular checks of ears, teeth, and nails are just as important as brushing. Nails should be trimmed or ground regularly because the relatively short legs mean long nails can affect the dog’s movement and comfort. A quick weekly grooming routine that includes brushing, nail checking, and a look at the skin and ears will keep a Västgötaspets in top condition and also gives you an opportunity to spot any lumps, bumps, or skin irritations early.

Temperament & Personality

The Västgötaspets is an energetic, cheerful, and loyal companion with a big personality in a compact body. This is a dog that thrives on being involved in family life. Many owners describe their Swedish Vallhund as a shadow that follows them from room to room, always interested in what is happening and rarely content to be left out. The breed is affectionate and forms strong bonds with its people, often favouring one person slightly while still being devoted to the whole family.

With families and children, a well-bred and properly socialised Västgötaspets is typically playful, fun, and patient. They enjoy games, walks, and anything that brings them into contact with their humans. Their herding background can show up in the form of gentle heel nipping or circling behaviour, especially around running children. This is not aggression, but it can be startling or annoying if not managed. Clear rules and early redirection, such as asking the dog to fetch a toy instead of chasing feet, usually solve the problem. As with any breed, children and dogs should be supervised together, and children should be taught how to interact respectfully.

Around strangers, the Västgötaspets can be reserved at first, often standing back to assess the situation. They are naturally alert and have strong watchdog instincts, so they will usually bark to announce visitors or unusual sounds. Once they have decided a person is friendly, many become sociable and enjoy being petted. Good early socialisation with a variety of people, places, and experiences helps prevent shyness or overprotective behaviour.

With other dogs, the breed is generally confident and assertive without being quarrelsome. Same-sex tension can occur in some individuals, particularly males, so careful introductions and good management are important. Many Västgötaspets live happily with other dogs and enjoy dog sports that involve group activities. Cats and smaller pets can also be accepted, especially if the dog grows up with them, although the herding instinct may still encourage chasing if boundaries are not set.

One notable trait of the breed is its voice. The Västgötaspets tends to be quite vocal and will bark to communicate excitement, frustration, or alertness. In a city apartment this can become an issue if not addressed kindly and consistently. Teaching a “quiet” cue and providing plenty of mental stimulation can greatly reduce excessive barking. Still, anyone considering this breed should be prepared for a dog that uses its voice more than some other breeds.

Mentally, the Västgötaspets is quick, observant, and at times a little stubborn. They are not pushovers and will often question whether a command is worth following, especially if they are bored. On the other hand, when training is varied, creative, and fair, they are wonderfully responsive and enjoy learning. A Västgötaspets that is given regular exercise, mental challenges, and positive interaction will usually be a joyful, sensible companion, while one that is under-stimulated may become restless, noisy, or mischievous.

Overall, the temperament of the Västgötaspets makes it suitable for active households that appreciate a lively, intelligent dog who wants to be fully involved in everyday life. It is not typically a couch potato breed, but after a good walk or training session, many are happy to curl up next to their people and relax.

Training & Exercise

The Västgötaspets was originally bred as a working farm dog, and this heritage remains clear in its energy level and enthusiasm for activity. Although relatively small, this breed has a sturdy body and a sharp mind that both need regular outlets. Daily exercise is essential, not only for physical health but also for emotional balance. A typical adult Västgötaspets will need at least one to two hours of combined physical and mental activity each day.

Physical exercise can include brisk walks, play sessions, and off-lead running in safe areas. While they are not long-distance running dogs in the way some larger breeds are, many Västgötaspets enjoy jogging beside their owners on moderate runs once they are fully grown. Their short legs do not prevent them from keeping up surprisingly well. What matters most is variety. Repeating the same short walk day after day can result in boredom and lead to problem behaviours, such as barking or chewing.

Mental stimulation is equally important. The Västgötaspets is clever and likes to use its brain. Training sessions, puzzle toys, scent games, and problem-solving activities are all excellent ways to keep the dog satisfied. For example, you can hide treats around the house or garden and encourage your dog to search for them, or use food-dispensing toys that require the dog to work out how to release the reward. Simple obedience exercises, such as sit, stay, and recall, can be turned into short, fun games that last only a few minutes but contribute greatly to your dog’s mental wellbeing.

When it comes to training methods, the Västgötaspets responds best to positive reinforcement. This means rewarding the behaviours you like with food, toys, or praise, and avoiding harsh corrections that can damage trust. The breed’s herding background gives it a strong sense of independence, so heavy-handed training often leads to resistance or shutdown. Short, varied sessions work far better than long, repetitive drills. Many owners find that their dogs learn new tricks quickly, but they must also maintain consistency, because the Västgötaspets will notice any loopholes in the rules and may exploit them.

The breed excels in a wide range of dog sports and activities, which can provide a great outlet for both energy and intelligence. Examples include:

• Agility and hoopers, where their quick turns and speed really shine
• Rally obedience and traditional obedience, where they can demonstrate precision and focus
• Herding tests and trials, where their natural instincts come to life
• Tracking or scent work, which draws on their excellent nose

Even if you do not plan to compete, attending classes for these activities can strengthen the bond between you and your dog as well as providing important socialisation.

Puppies and young dogs need a careful balance between exercise and rest. Their joints and growth plates are still developing, so high-impact activities such as long runs, repeated jumping, or climbing many flights of stairs should be limited until adulthood. Instead, several short outings each day combined with gentle play and basic training are appropriate. Socialisation is crucial in this period. Exposing a young Västgötaspets to different sounds, surfaces, people, and friendly animals builds a confident and adaptable adult.

Adult Västgötaspets dogs that receive adequate exercise and training tend to be calm and content at home. Those that are under-exercised can develop frustration-related behaviours such as barking at passersby, digging, or demanding attention constantly. Planning a daily routine that includes both physical and mental outlets is therefore central to living harmoniously with this active little herder.

Health

The Västgötaspets is generally a robust and hardy breed, shaped by its working background and the demands of the Scandinavian climate. Many individuals enjoy long, active lives, often into their early to mid teens, particularly when bred responsibly and given proper care. That said, like any purebred dog, the Västgötaspets can be prone to certain health issues that owners and breeders should be aware of.

One area of concern is eye health. Some Västgötaspets may be affected by hereditary eye conditions, such as cataracts or retinal problems that can lead to impaired vision over time. Responsible breeders typically arrange for their dogs to undergo eye examinations by veterinary ophthalmologists at intervals recommended by their national kennel club or breed club. Prospective owners should feel comfortable asking breeders about recent eye test results for both parents of any puppy they are considering.

Another potential issue involves the spine. Because the breed has a long back and shorter legs, there can be a predisposition to certain spinal conditions. While the Västgötaspets is not as severely affected as some very long-backed breeds, excessive jumping, obesity, or frequent use of stairs can increase the risk of problems. Maintaining a healthy weight and providing sensible exercise helps to protect the back. If a dog shows signs of pain when jumping, reluctance to move, or weakness in the hindquarters, a veterinary check is advisable.

Hip health is also monitored within the breed. Although the Västgötaspets is not among the breeds most severely affected by hip dysplasia, screening through hip scoring schemes is common in many countries. Breeders use these results when planning matings in order to reduce the risk of producing puppies with poor hip structure. In a working or active household, well-formed hips are particularly important, as the dog may spend many hours each week running, turning, and jumping.

Some Västgötaspets lines have reported issues such as patellar luxation, where the kneecap moves out of its normal position, and various minor skin or allergy problems. Good breeding practices, including health testing and careful record-keeping, help to minimise the occurrence of these issues. For the individual owner, regular veterinary checks, a balanced diet, and observation of any changes in the dog’s skin, mobility, or general behaviour are key.

Recommended health tests often include:

• Eye examinations by a specialist vet
• Hip evaluations according to recognised schemes
• In some regions, additional screening for genetic conditions identified within the breed

Lifespan for the Västgötaspets typically ranges from around 12 to 15 years, with some individuals living even longer. To support a long and healthy life, owners should focus on:

• Weight control through appropriate feeding and portion sizes
• Consistent dental care, such as brushing teeth or providing suitable dental chews
• Regular exercise that keeps muscles strong and joints flexible
• Vaccination and parasite control as advised by a veterinarian

It is wise to discuss pet insurance or setting aside a financial reserve for veterinary care, since even healthy dogs may need treatment for accidents or age-related conditions later in life. Early detection of health problems usually leads to better outcomes, so do not ignore subtle signs such as reduced enthusiasm for walks, changes in appetite, or increased thirst.

Overall, when sourced from a responsible breeder who carries out recommended testing, the Västgötaspets is a sound and resilient breed. With sensible management and routine veterinary care, most individuals are able to enjoy many years of active companionship.

History & Origins

The history of the Västgötaspets is closely tied to the rural landscapes of western Sweden. The breed is believed to be very old, with roots stretching back many centuries. It developed in the province of Västergötland, where small, agile farm dogs worked alongside farmers to manage cattle and guard homesteads. The long, low body and quick movements of the Västgötaspets allowed it to dodge the kicks of cattle while confidently driving them from pasture to pasture.

There are various theories about how the breed originated. One popular idea suggests that Viking traders may have brought spitz-type dogs from other parts of northern Europe, where they mingled with local farm dogs and eventually evolved into the Västgötaspets. Another theory proposes a more independent development from native Scandinavian dogs adapted to local conditions. While the exact story may never be fully known, what is clear is that the Västgötaspets is deeply woven into Swedish farming traditions.

By the early twentieth century, changes in agriculture and the increasing use of machinery meant that small herding dogs were no longer as vital on farms as they once had been. Like many traditional working breeds, the Västgötaspets began to decline in numbers. In fact, the breed came close to disappearing entirely. It was only through the efforts of dedicated enthusiasts in Sweden that the remaining dogs were located in remote farms and a breeding program was begun to preserve them.

The breed gained official recognition in Sweden and gradually became established as a distinct breed, with a written standard that described its appearance, movement, and temperament. Over time, interest grew beyond Sweden’s borders. The Västgötaspets found admirers in other Nordic countries and later in Germany, the United Kingdom, and further afield. Kennel clubs across Europe and in other parts of the world now recognise the breed.

Today, the Västgötaspets is no longer primarily a cattle dog, although some individuals still herd livestock and take part in herding trials. Instead, the breed has found a new role as a versatile companion and sport dog. Its intelligence and enthusiasm make it suitable for many modern activities, including obedience, agility, rally, tracking, and search games. Despite these new pursuits, the breed has retained its characteristic alertness, courage, and work ethic.

The heritage of the Västgötaspets is still visible in its behaviour. The tendency to herd, the vocal nature, and the strong attachment to its home and people all hark back to life on the farm, where the dog needed to react quickly to movement, protect property, and stay close to its human partners. For many enthusiasts, owning a Västgötaspets is a way to keep a piece of Scandinavian history alive, while enjoying a lively, intelligent companion that fits well into modern life.

As the breed gains popularity, careful stewardship remains important. Breed clubs encourage responsible breeding that respects both health and traditional type, ensuring that the Västgötaspets of today remains the same tough little working dog in spirit that once trotted across Swedish fields, guiding cattle and watching over farmsteads.

Living with the Breed

Living with a Västgötaspets is both rewarding and active. This is not a dog that is content to be a decorative accessory. It wants to join in and be part of everything. For many owners, that is exactly the appeal. If you enjoy walking, training, and spending focused time with your dog, the Västgötaspets can be an excellent choice.

In daily life, the breed adapts fairly well to different living environments, from farms and country houses to suburban homes and even city apartments. The key requirement is regular, meaningful exercise and mental engagement. In a smaller living space, providing enough activity outside becomes particularly important. A bored Västgötaspets may bark at every hallway noise or become inventive in its search for entertainment, which can mean chewing household items or rearranging cushions and shoes.

New owners should be prepared for the breed’s vocal nature. It is quite normal for a Västgötaspets to bark when someone approaches the door, when it spots a bird in the garden, or when it is excited during play. Early training that rewards quiet behaviour and teaches a reliable “enough” or “quiet” cue will go a long way in keeping peace with neighbours. Providing appropriate outlets for natural behaviours, such as sniffing walks and problem-solving games, also reduces unnecessary barking.

Financially, the annual cost of owning a Västgötaspets is comparable to that of many other medium-activity breeds. Main expenses include:

• Quality food appropriate to the dog’s age and activity level
• Routine veterinary care, vaccinations, and parasite prevention
• Pet insurance or a savings plan for unexpected veterinary bills
• Training classes or dog sport participation, if you choose to attend
• Equipment and replacements, such as beds, leads, harnesses, and toys

Some owners find that involvement in dog sports adds further costs, such as club memberships, competition fees, or travel. These are optional, but many Västgötaspets thrive when given a job like agility or rally, so budgeting for some form of organised activity is worth considering.

Useful equipment for living with a Västgötaspets includes a well-fitting harness for walks, a sturdy collar with identification, and a reliable lead. Because the breed is quite agile and determined, secure fencing in the garden is essential. A bored or curious Västgötaspets can quickly find weaknesses in a fence, so checking for gaps or loose boards is a wise habit. Interactive toys, chew items, and puzzle feeders help satisfy their mental needs and can be especially useful during bad weather or when life is busy.

Grooming needs are moderate. A basic kit with a slicker or pin brush, a comb for checking the coat during shedding, nail clippers or a grinder, and dog-safe shampoo will cover most situations. Setting up a weekly grooming routine early in the dog’s life helps it to accept handling calmly, which is useful not only at home but also at the vet or groomer.

Commitment-wise, future owners should understand that the Västgötaspets is a long-lived, intelligent, and energetic breed. It is not usually suited to households where the dog will be left alone for very long periods on a regular basis without company or stimulation. While many dogs can learn to tolerate a typical workday alone if given adequate exercise and mental engagement before and after, they are happiest when they can spend a reasonable amount of time with their people.

For the right home, the Västgötaspets brings a great deal of joy. It offers the character and working drive of a much larger herding dog in a compact, manageable size. With consistent training, thoughtful socialisation, and a lifestyle that embraces activity and togetherness, living with a Västgötaspets can be a deeply satisfying partnership that lasts for many years.

Characteristics

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of temperament does the Västgötaspets have with families and children?

This breed is typically upbeat, confident, and very people focused. They usually bond closely with their family and can be excellent with respectful children, as long as they are well socialized. Their herding instincts can lead to heel nipping or chasing, so guidance and training around younger children are important.

How much exercise does a Västgötaspets really need each day?

Although small in size, this is a high energy herding dog that needs at least 60 to 90 minutes of physical activity daily. They benefit from brisk walks, off leash running in safe areas, and mentally engaging activities such as herding games or scent work. Under exercised dogs can become vocal, restless, or prone to nuisance behaviors.

Is the Västgötaspets suitable for apartment living?

They can adapt to an apartment if their exercise and mental stimulation needs are consistently met. However, they tend to be vocal watchdogs and may bark at hallway noises or outside sounds, which can be a challenge in shared buildings. Good sound-proofing, training, and regular outings are essential in this setting.

What health problems are Västgötaspets dogs prone to?

Overall this is a relatively robust breed, but there are a few concerns to be aware of. Known issues include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, hereditary eye conditions, and occasionally patellar luxation. Health testing of breeding stock and regular veterinary checkups help reduce risk and catch problems early.

How does the Västgötaspets’ long body and short legs affect its health and activity?

Their build is designed for herding cattle at heel height and is usually functional and athletic. Unlike some long backed breeds, they are not commonly associated with severe back problems, although owners should still avoid excessive jumping from heights and keep them lean. Proper conditioning and controlled exercise help protect their joints and spine.

Do Västgötaspets shed a lot and how difficult is their grooming?

They have a dense double coat that sheds moderately all year with heavier seasonal shedding. Weekly brushing usually keeps the coat in good condition, but daily grooming may be needed during shedding seasons. Baths are only needed occasionally, and professional grooming is rarely required.

Are Västgötaspets very vocal, and can their barking be managed?

They are naturally alert and often bark to announce visitors, strange noises, or movement outside. Without training, this trait can become excessive, especially in busy neighborhoods. Early teaching of a quiet cue, structured exercise, and enough mental work are important to keep barking at a manageable level.

How well do Västgötaspets get along with other dogs and household pets?

With good socialization they are usually friendly or at least polite with other dogs, though some can be a bit bossy. Their herding drive may lead them to chase or control smaller pets, so introductions should be supervised and some combinations may never be ideal. Early exposure and clear rules help them integrate smoothly into multi pet homes.

Is the Västgötaspets easy to train for first time dog owners?

They are intelligent, quick to learn, and usually very motivated by both food and play. However, their independent herding background means they can be strong willed and easily bored by repetitive drills. Consistent, reward based training with plenty of variety works far better than harsh methods, and a committed first time owner can do well with guidance.

What is the historical role of the Västgötaspets and how does it influence today’s behavior?

The breed was developed in rural Sweden as a tough, multipurpose farm dog that herded cattle, guarded property, and controlled vermin. This history explains their high energy level, strong work ethic, and tendency to be both watchful and vocal. Modern dogs still thrive when given jobs, such as dog sports, farm work, or structured daily tasks.

Sources

• Svenska Kennelklubben (Swedish Kennel Club)
• The Danish Kennel Club
• The Norwegian Kennel Club
• The German Kennel Club (VDH)
• The Kennel Club (United Kingdom)