QUESTIONS
1. What is my relationship with the breed? (ie breeder, first time owner etc)
I have owned and bred SVs for over twenty years,
2. Where and why was the breed first developed?
The breed has been around since the Viking area, this is why they are known as the Viking Legacy. They where resurrected after the second world war, like a lot of farm dogs they where in danger of becoming extinct. Full history of the saving of the Vallhund can be read at http://svclub.org.nz/history.php
3. How common is it in Australia?
The Vallhund arrived in Australia in 1981, it is a breed that I believe will come into its own now, we are growing in number, with numerous new bloodlines imported in the last few years the breed is in the best shape it has ever been !!
4. What is the average lifespan?
10 to 16 years although 20 year olds are not uncommon, if well looked after Valls can live a long and healthy life !
5. What is the general temperament/personality?
These dogs can be trained by children, are great for the motivated trainer and for the person who wants a loyal and responsive pet, the key to having the right Vallhund is conversing with the breeder, if the breeder knows what you want from your Vallhund they can help pick the temperament to suit your lifestyle.
6. How much daily exercise is needed for the average adult?
Depends on the dog, I have some who love to spend the whole day mooching around helping me garden, after the first burst of morning energy then I have others who are on the go and need lots more stimulation, but at the end of the day they all like to curl up with a good owner on the couch
7. Is it a breed that a first time dog owner could easily cope with?
Yes, buy from a reputable breeder, they will help with any hiccups, they really need attention, love and an understanding heart. Yes they can be open to taking advantage of an opportunity but that is why you should keep in touch with the breeder and with other owners.
8. Can solo dogs of this breed easily occupy themselves for long periods?
Yes, so long as they are stimulated and exercised when you are home, if you want a dog for the backyard, don't get a Vallhund, if you are home then they expect to be a part of the family and be doing whatever it is that you are doing ! They need LOTS of early exposure to anything and everything that goes on in the house, outside the house and everywhere else in the neighborhood.
9. How much grooming is required?
10. Is it too boisterous for very small children or for infirm people (unless the dog is well trained)?
This is a tough question, I have seen young Vallhunds get over excited and need extra guidance with young kids I have also seen young dogs sit on a child's sick bed for hours just quietly being there. Training is the key, train the dog with the child Usually an older dog is very well suited to infirm people, training again comes into it, but these dogs in general have subtle awareness of people/children in need !
11. Are there any common hereditary problems a puppy buyer should be aware of?
No, there is an eye issue which is being researched, to date no firm answers have been uncovered.
12. When buying a puppy, what are the things you should ask of the breeder? (eg what health tests have been done (if applicable) and what is an acceptable result to those tests so the buyer has an idea of what the result should be
Most breeders eye test and a clear eye cert on both parents is what you would look for.