| Country of origin: | Sweden |
| Registries: | AKC FSS, UKC, CKC |
| Occupation: | Herder |
| Size: | 14–16kg (31–35lb), 41–51cm (16–20in) |
| Longevity: | 12 to 14 years |
| Exercise: | Active |
| Training: | Hard to keep challenged |
| Grooming: | Easy; sheds |
| Colors: | All colours |
Vallhund means “herding dog”, and this determined, energetic breed resembles the Welsh Corgis (see p.127) in more than just its looks. It has the tenacity, toughness, and courage of all heeler breeds, and also the potential to nip at the ankles of anything that passes. The Vallhund, Vastgötaspets, or Swedish Cattle Dog is classed as an indigenous breed in Sweden. It is possible that it is descended from the Corgis, arriving in Scandinavia with Vikings returning from Pembrokeshire settlements, and ultimately, the ancestors of both breeds are probably the short-legged bassets of central Europe. The breed was close to extinction after World War II, but was saved by the efforts of two breeders, Björn von Rosen and Karl-Gustaf Zettersten. It is a breed that remains fairly rare, but its popularity is growing steadily.