The Västgötaspets, also known as the Visigothic Spitz or Swedish Vallhund, is an energetic and elegant dog, appreciated for its versatility and its history related to the Vikings. It is distinguished by its compact and dynamic silhouette, reminiscent of a mix between a Corgi and a Spitz.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Origin: Sweden
- Hypoallergenic? No
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight:
- Male: 9-14 kg
- Female: 9-14 kg
- Height:
- Male: 30-35 cm
- Female: 29-33 cm
- Life expectancy: 12-14 years
- Exercise needs: 1.5 to 2 hours per day
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Can adapt, but prefers a fenced yard)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Protective: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Hunter: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Calm: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Independent: ⭐☆☆☆☆
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Adapts well, but may be a bit lively for young children)
- Other animals: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Sociable, but good socialization is essential)
- Strangers: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Generally friendly, but may be reserved)
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Prefers a fenced yard, but can adapt)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Requires regular grooming of its thick coat)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Moderate cost for upkeep)
- Frequency of care:
- Brushing: Regular brushing is necessary to avoid tangles and excessive shedding.
- Additional maintenance: Ear cleaning, nail trimming, and regular dental care.
💰 Budget
- Purchase price:800-1200 €
- Average annual cost (veterinary, accessories, food): 350-650 €
🏡 Important note
The Visigothic Spitz is an energetic, intelligent, and affectionate dog that requires regular attention for its coat and overall health. While it can adapt to different living environments, a fenced yard is highly recommended to allow it to expend its energy. It is an excellent choice for an active family, but it requires special attention to its maintenance and exercise needs.
