Is the Danish/Swedish Farmdog the right choice for your lifestyle?

The Danish/Swedish Farmdog's general appearance can be seen in the various photographs posted throughout this website. Also, please refer to the Breed Standard for more detail.

Flora's Lady Eva Annelise, "Anna", TFC, FM

U-FLI Top Dog (Highest point flyball dog) and number one Danish/Swedish Farmdog in the league.

Danish/Swedish Farmdogs require exercise. They can adapt to many levels of activity, from low to high, but remember, these are "working" dogs and they like to have something to do. Ideally, they need about 1 hour of vigorous exercise per day. If you do not have a yard for running and playing, it is important to take them for regular walks. You might consider participating in a "dog sport" such as Flyball, Agility, Herding or some other dog activity.

This small compact dog ranges from 12-15 inches in height, measured at the shoulder and weighs between 17-25 pounds on average. Females range 12-14 inches, 18-22 pounds, and males range 13-15 inches, 20-25 pounds.

The breed is generally healthy with no breed-specific inherited disorders. Regular veterinary check-ups and immunizations will help insure the continued health of your dog.

Their coat is short, close, smooth and shiny and pretty much odor-free with minimal grooming. Shedding is seasonal, though in temperate climates may occur to some extent year-round. (Adding an essential fatty acid supplement to food eliminates year-round shedding but does not interfere with seasonal shedding.) Nails should be clipped regularly and teeth brushed 2-3 times per week.

Farmdogs eat between 1-2 cups of premium dry food per day depending on their overall size and activity level. Providing safe "chewing" type treats will help maintain teeth and promote overall good oral health.

Farmdogs are full of personality. In general, these dogs are alert, lively, sweet, friendly, curious and full of playfulness and fun. This is not an aggressive breed. They make good family dogs and are good with children. They adapt well to other dogs. They love attention, and will, at times, demand it. There are ranges in personality types and energy levels within all breeds. Your breeder will be able to help you make the right choice. It is wise to rely on the breeder's assessment.

This breed was bred for it's versatility - an all-purpose "Farmer's Dog." They have instincts for catching mice and rats and they like to chase rodents. They like to dig. This breed has herding and hunting instincts. They learn to swim easily, though some individuals seem to like the water more than others. Some Farmdogs have been trained as certified search and rescue dogs.  This breed truly is an all-purpose dog breed.

The breed is highly intelligent and easily trained. You can expect them to learn all sorts of  cute tricks and obedience with proper training. Proper, positive reinforcemant training is important.  If you don't train them, they will train you!  These dogs have excellent memories and do not forget things easily. They love toys, interactive games and sports -- anything that will entertain them. 

Farmdogs are smart! Proper training and socialization is important!