Danish Swedish Farmdog: Origin, Characteristics, Lifespan

The Danish Swedish farmdog is a very beautiful breed of dog that has become popular all over Scandinavia. It is also known as Scanian terrier, Swedish: Dansk-svensk gårdshund and Danish: Dansk/svensk gårdhund.

The breed has it’s origin in Denmark and southern Sweden. It is an old native breed which has historically lived on farms in the eastern part of Denmark and southernmost part of Sweden.

It is serving as a guard dog, rat catcher and hunting dog. The breed’s soft and gentle temperament also makes them excellent companion dogs. There are some indications that the breed originates from the pinscher breeds and the British while hunting terriers.

In the year of 1987, the Danish Swedish farmdog became a recognized breed in Sweden and Denmark. At that time, the two countries got together and agreed on the name of the breed, and also on the breed standard written by judge and breeder Lars Adeheimer, Sweden and judge Ole Staunskjaer, Denmark.

The breed was used as a farm dog for many hundreds of years, and before becoming a recognized breed it was known under the local name “råttehund”, “rat dog”, “Skrabba” and “Skåneterrier”.[1]

Danish Swedish Farmdog Characteristics

The Danish Swedish farmdogs are very beautiful in appearance with a compact body. Their distinctive face is small, and tapers from ears to nose. They have brown eyes which are circular and expressive, while their triangular ears flop forward, bordering their face on either side.

Their long and deep chest is particularly prominent. Their body is rectangular and compact which is supported by muscular, straight forelimbs.

Tail of the Danish Swedish farmdogs may be naturally short or long, carried with a slight curve. Their coat is short and harsh. They may have 2 to 3 colors and accepted colors within their coat include black, brown, red and white.

The Danish Swedish farmdogs are relatively smaller in size. Average height of the mature dog is between 13 and 15 inches at the withers for males, and between 12 and 15 inches for the females. And their average live body weight is between 7 and 12 kg.

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Temperament

The Danish Swedish farmdog is a very friendly and easygoing breed. It work on farms as a rat exterminator and watch dog, and also a good companion to the farm owners. The breed is known to be friend and play with the children of the household.

The breed is known for having an excellent temperament and does well with a majority of people, places and things. Just ensure that you don’t plan to leave them alone for long periods of time. They need the companionship of humans or other animals.

Like other dogs, the Danish Swedish farmdogs also require early socialization. Exposure to new places, people, sights and sounds are great ways for this. And this will ensure a secure, well rounded mature dog.

Lifespan

Average lifespan of the Danish Swedish farmdog is between 11 and 13 years.

Feeding

How much a mature dog eats depends on it’s size, age, build, metabolism and activity level. Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don’t all need the same amount of food.

The Danish Swedish farmdogs are smaller in size, but they are very active. So, their diet should be formulated for a small sized breed with high exercise needs. You can consult with a vet in your area for better feeding recommendations.

Caring

Taking good care of the animals is very important for raising Danish Swedish farmdogs. You should always keep up with your dog’s regular vet checkups to detect any health concerns early. Your vet will be able to help you to develop a caring routine that will keep your dog healthy.

Due to the hunting and working origin of the breed, these dogs require lots of exercise but also love to cuddle with family.

Clip their nails as needed, before they get too long (usually once or twice per month). They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer or vet can help with this.

Maintaining their oral health is also very important. You should brush your dog’s teeth a minimum of 3 times per week.

The Danish Swedish farmdogs have a short straight coat with normal density. And this type of coat is very easy to maintain with some regular brushing, and bath only as needed.

Health

The Danish Swedish farmdogs are generally healthy. But like all other dog breeds, they are also prone to certain health conditions.

Their common health problems include hip dysplasia, dental problems and patellar luxation. Always try to keep good contact with a vet in your area.

Breed NameDanish Swedish Farmdog
Other NamesAlso known as Scanian terrier, Swedish: Dansk-svensk gårdshund and Danish: Dansk/svensk gårdhund
Breed SizeSmall
HeightBetween 13 and 15 inches at the withers for males, and between 12 and 15 inches for the females
WeightBetween 7 and 12 kg
Good as PetsYes
Climate ToleranceAll climates
ColorPredominately white. But other colors also occur such as black, brown and red.
LifespanBetween 11 and  13 years
Good for ChildrenYes
RarityCommon
Country/Place of OriginDenmark and Sweden

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