Danish-Swedish Farmdog

The Danish-Swedish Farmdog traces its roots to the rural farms of Denmark and southern Sweden, where it was developed over centuries as a multi-purpose working dog. Known for catching vermin, herding livestock, and being a loyal family pet, this breed nearly disappeared before being formally recognized in the 1980s. Its revival was aided by breed enthusiasts and Scandinavian kennel clubs. Today, it’s gaining recognition beyond Northern Europe for its charming temperament and versatility.

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Compact, muscular, and lively, the Danish-Swedish Farmdog has a classic “terrier-type” build but a calmer demeanor.

• Weight: 15–25 lb (7–11 kg)
• Height: 12–15 inches (30–38 cm)
• Coat Type: Short, smooth
• Coat Colors: Predominantly white with patches of brown, tan, or black
• Distinctive Physical Traits: Slightly wedge-shaped head, expressive eyes, high-set ears, and a natural or docked tail

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Low-maintenance and tidy, this breed is easy to groom.

• Brushing: Weekly with a soft bristle or rubber mitt
• Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks or as needed
• Ears: Check and clean weekly
• Nails: Trim every 3–4 weeks
• Teeth: Brush 2–3× per week

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Farmdogs are energetic but not hyperactive; they benefit from a mix of physical and mental stimulation.

• Daily Duration: 45–60 minutes
• Activities: Walks, fetch, dog sports (agility, rally), scent work
• Suitability: Ideal for active families, singles, or seniors with time for interaction
• Energy Level: Medium to High

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Highly intelligent and people-pleasing, the Farmdog learns quickly with the right approach.

• Method: Positive reinforcement, short and varied sessions
• Focus Areas: Basic obedience, recall, and impulse control
• Challenge: Can become bored with repetition—keep training fun and interactive
• Enrichment: Puzzle toys, obedience drills, scent games

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A balanced diet supports their active lifestyle and lean body condition.

• Food Type: High-quality kibble or home-cooked/raw with vet guidance
• Daily Quantity: 1–1.5 cups split into two meals
• Feeding Schedule: Twice daily
• Diet Advice: Monitor weight and adjust intake based on activity

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Though rare in North America, reputable sources exist for those seeking this breed.

• Breeders: Look for those registered with FCI, CKC (when available), or Scandinavian kennel clubs
• Rescue Options: Contact Northern European breed-specific rescues or rare breed clubs
• Canadian Resources: Watch CKC and rare breed networks; contact local dog sport clubs for breeder leads

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Generally robust, this breed benefits from routine care and health screening.

• Common Issues: Patellar luxation, dental disease, and ear infections
• Life Expectancy: 11–15 years
• Recommended Testing: Patellas, eyes, hearing (BAER testing for white dogs)

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Are Danish-Swedish Farmdogs good apartment dogs?
Yes, they adapt well if exercised daily and mentally stimulated.

Do Farmdogs bark a lot?
They’re alert and may bark when excited or bored—early training helps reduce nuisance barking.

Are Danish-Swedish Farmdogs hypoallergenic?
No. They do shed and are not considered hypoallergenic.

How much exercise does this breed need?
About 45–60 minutes daily plus enrichment and training.

Are they good with kids and other pets?
Yes—playful, tolerant, and affectionate when well-socialized.

Do they shed much?
Moderately. Their short coat is easy to manage with regular brushing.

Farmdog vs Jack Russell Terrier—what’s the difference?
Farmdogs are generally calmer, more biddable, and less intense than JRTs, though still active.

What’s their prey drive like?
Moderate—they were used for vermin control. Supervise around small animals.