Danish-Swedish Farmdog
The Danish-Swedish Farmdog (DSF) is a breed that dates back hundreds of years and originates from Denmark and southern Sweden. This dog was originally used as a versatile farmdog for herding and guarding livestock, as well as for controlling vermin on farms. The DSF was close to extinction in the mid-20th century due to mechanization of farming, but efforts by enthusiasts in Denmark and Sweden have helped the breed recover.
- Origin
- Denmark, Sweden
- Alternate Names
- Dansk-Svensk Gårdshund, Little Big Dog
- Life Expectancy
- 11-13 years
- Average Male Height
- 12.5-14.5 inches
- Average Female Height
- 12.5-14.5 inches
- Average Male Weight
- 15-20 pounds
- Average Female Weight
- 15-20 pounds
- Coat Length
- Short
- Coat Type
- Smooth
- Coat Colors
- White & Black, White & Brown, White & Fawn, White & Tan
- Coat Pattern
- Tan Markings
Genetic Predispositions and Health
The Danish-Swedish Farmdog is a generally healthy breed, but can suffer from hyperuricosuria, multidrug sensitivity, and primary lens luxation. Genetic testing for these and other conditions such as protein-losing nephropathy, chondrodystrophy and intervertebral disc disease (CDDY and IVDD risk) with or without chondrodysplasia (CDPA), multidrug resistance 1, and hyperuricosuria is recommended to assist veterinarians with diagnosis and proactive care, as well as help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs.
Personality and Behavior
The DSF is known for being friendly, intelligent, and energetic. These dogs are excellent with children and are generally good with other animals if properly socialized. They are often described as eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. However, they are also known for their high energy level and need for regular physical and mental stimulation. They can adapt to different living situations but are happiest when they have a job to do, whether that's herding, agility, or even just playing games with their owners.
Fun Facts
After being accepted into the American Kennel Club (AKC) Foundation Stock Services Program in 2011, the Danish-Swedish Farmdog became eligible to compete in Agility, Barn Hunt, Flyball, Herding, Lure Coursing, Nosework, Obedience and Rally, Tracking and AKC FSS Open Shows.
The AKC states that Danish-Swedish Farmdogs likely descended from Pinscher-Fox Terrier crosses.
The breed was recognized by the Danish Kennel Club in 1987 and by the Swedish Kennel Club in 1989.
References
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/danish-swedish-farmdog/ https://www.ukcdogs.com/danish-swedish-farmdog https://www.fci.be/Nomenclature/Standards/356g02-en.pdf https://www.pawprintgenetics.com/products/breeds/241/ https://www.pawprintgenetics.com/products/tests/details/77/?breed=241