Danish-Swedish Farmdog Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Danish-Swedish Farmdog?

The Danish Swedish Farmdog originated in the 1700s to be used as a rat catcher or guard dog. Experts are unsure of their ancestry but it's agreed by some enthusiasts that they combine the Parson Russell Terrier, Danish Pinscher, Fox Terrier, and Rat Terrier bloodlines.

Their trainability also meant they were often used as circus dogs to perform alongside clowns in big tents.

They were given their current name in 1987 after both countries agreed to rename them. Danish Swedish Farmdogs are not recognised by the American Kennel Club and are currently in their Foundation Stock Service, which is a stepping stone to becoming a recognised breed. They are currently recognised by several Swedish kennel clubs, including the Federation Cynologique Internationale.

Who are Danish-Swedish Farmdog dogs best for?

Danish Swedish Farm dogs are active, personable pooches with a natural sense of humour and a love for play. This makes them ideal for families with small children or simply for parents who want a dog with a bit of personality.

They make great working dogs, so if you're looking for a dog that's fit for purpose the Danish Swedish Farmdog is a good choice. They can be trained for a variety of purposes, so if you want a guard dog or rat dog, they can take to either role naturally.

Though they have plenty of terrier blood in their history the Danish Swedish farm dog is a mellow dog that makes a solid household companion dog. That being said, they can be high-energy dogs and will need a healthy dose of daily exercise and mental stimulation to keep them from developing problem behaviours.

However, with their history of being hardwired for hunting vermin, these small dogs aren't recommended for homes with other pets like cats or rodents, though they get along just fine with other dogs.

How much grooming does a Danish-Swedish Farmdog need?

Danish Swedish Farmdogs require minimal grooming, they tend not to need baths as they're conscientious dogs that will regularly clean themselves.

They aren't heavy shedders so this breed's coat will need minimal brushing, once a week should keep their coat clean while removing loose hair and skin and assisting in the distribution of natural oils to keep their coat glossy.

They will go through seasonal periods of heavy shedding so may require more regular brushing during these stints.

Their nails should stay naturally short from the long walks they'll go on with you but you may still need to trim them, which can be an energetic task if your Danish Swedish Farmdog has other ideas!

Do Danish-Swedish Farmdog bark much?

The Danish Swedish Farmdog is relatively vocal, taking the cue from their terrier heritage, though they aren't nearly as highly strung as other terrier breeds.

They aren't heavy barkers but like to communicate and won't bark impulsively. Their inclination to bark has been bred into them over many generations, which is what makes Danish Swedish Farmdogs such solid watchdogs.

Training and early socialisation around other people and animals is a great way to curtail the barking to an extent though it is in their nature.

Do Danish-Swedish Farmdog bite?

There's no evidence to suggest that Danish Swedish Farmdogs are a high bite risk. They are friendly dogs without a point to prove and will rarely show any sort of aggression to any humans.

They have been bred for herding in the past which means they may have an instinct to nip now and then if they fall into their sheepdog state of mind while playing, but this is rare, and if it does occur there will be no force behind the bite.

With that in mind, make sure to keep one eye on them if they're playing with kids in your home who aren't used to them as even a little nip can be surprising or upsetting for children.

What is the temperament & personality of a Danish-Swedish Farmdog?

The Danish Swedish Farmdog is a friendly and sociable dog that thrives on play time and work alike. They can be trained for a variety of tasks and love to make themselves useful.

The Danish Swedish Farm dog is a high-energy dog that requires plenty of daily exercise and stimulation, whether this is simply on long walks or by getting involved in dog sports. They have a high prey drive so make sure they're on a lead in the park and keep an eye on them around smaller animals.

They are given to become great therapy dogs with the right training thanks to their love for and loyalty to humans.

What is the weight & size of a Danish-Swedish Farmdog?

The Danish Swedish Farmdog is a small breed that shows a slight variation in weight and size between the sexes. Males tend to stand between 33-40 cm at the shoulder and weigh between 9-12 kilos.

According to the American Kennel Club, females are slightly smaller at 30-35 cm shoulder height and weigh 7-10 kilos.

How much training does a Danish-Swedish Farmdog need?

The Danish Swedish Farmdog enjoys a high level of trainability after hundreds of years of working as a sheepdog, vermin catcher, watchdog, and hunting dog. Their high levels of intelligence make them adept at several dog sports like flyball and lure coursing. Lure coursing is a modern sport where dogs chase a mechanical lure.

The Danish Swedish Farmdog loves to work and thrive on any task it's given, so takes very well to train, but as with any dog, training has to begin early. Setting ground rules with your Danish Swedish Farmdog puppy early on is important to prevent them from jumping on furniture, chewing things up, and being unruly with guests. Make sure to implement obedience commands early on in their training.

What are some of the most common health issues for a Danish-Swedish Farmdog?

The Danish Swedish Farmdog is a healthy breed that suffers from minimal serious genetic health problems. There are a few minor conditions that affect every dog that you should look out for such as patellar luxation and elbow dysplasia.

What is the lifespan of a Danish-Swedish Farmdog?

With good treatment and the right nutrition, the Danish Swedish Farmdog can enjoy a long life expectancy of between 11-13 years.

How much should you feed a Danish-Swedish Farmdog?

The Danish Swedish Farmdog can eat wet or dry food and will tend to eat about a cup a day depending on their activity levels. Your vet or breeder can provide you with a breakdown of a feeding plan and recommend the right sort of recognised nutrition you should be feeding them.

They should be fed food designed for puppies initially and then moved onto adult formula when they are a year old. Make sure it has a complex, nutritious ingredients list with real meat, fatty acids, and a good source of vitamins and minerals.

What is the price of a Danish-Swedish Farmdog in Australia?

The price you'll pay for a Danish Swedish Farmdog will vary depending on the reputation of the breeder and the supplies of the breed available, but you can expect to pay between $800-$1500 for a puppy.