Danish-Swedish Farmdog
Description
The Danish-Swedish Farmdog is a compact, agile breed with roots tracing back centuries to Denmark and southern Sweden. Originally bred to herd livestock, guard farms, and control vermin, this dog combines versatility with a sturdy build. Standing about 15 to 20 pounds, it carries a short, smooth coat that often features white with black, brown, fawn, or tan markings. Its alert expression and lively demeanor reflect its working heritage. Known for being friendly and eager to please, the Danish-Swedish Farmdog thrives on interaction and tasks. It adapts well to family life, especially with children, but requires consistent mental and physical engagement to stay balanced. Without enough activity, this breed’s natural alertness can turn into persistent barking or restlessness. They excel in activities like agility and herding, which tap into their instinctual skills and keep them fulfilled.
Grooming
The Danish-Swedish Farmdog's short, smooth coat is low-maintenance but benefits from weekly brushing to remove loose hairs and maintain shine. Use a rubber curry or bristle brush for best results. Bathing should happen every 4 to 8 weeks, avoiding over-bathing to protect the skin’s natural oils. Nail trimming every 2 to 4 weeks keeps paws healthy, while monthly ear checks prevent buildup and irritation. Their coat colors—white combined with black, brown, fawn, or tan—don’t require special stain treatment, but regular cleaning around the face helps keep the white areas bright. - Brush weekly with rubber curry or bristle brush - Bathe every 4–8 weeks, no more - Trim nails every 2–4 weeks - Clean ears monthly - Check teeth regularly for tartar buildup Pro tip: Use a damp cloth to wipe the white fur after walks to prevent dirt buildup and maintain brightness.
Learn the Smooth routine:
→ Complete Smooth Grooming Guide
Walking
This breed needs about 70 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to manage its alertness and energy. Morning walks can focus on brisk exercise, while evening outings provide an opportunity for mental stimulation through scent work or obedience drills. The Danish-Swedish Farmdog benefits from varied routes and interactive walking games to keep boredom at bay. Example routine: - Morning: 40 minutes brisk walk with recall practice - Evening: 30 minutes mixed walk with scent games Short walks won’t satisfy this dog’s drive. Consistent, purposeful outings help reduce excessive barking and restlessness.
Boarding
When boarding a Danish-Swedish Farmdog, a crate size of 30 to 36 inches is appropriate to provide comfort without excess space. This breed enjoys active play sessions, so staff should schedule two play blocks daily, incorporating fetch or agility-style games. Enrichment through scent and brain games is essential to keep their sharp minds engaged and prevent boredom. Staff should note this breed’s tendency to bark and provide calm, consistent handling to ease anxiety. Socialization with other dogs is usually positive if introduced properly, but supervision during initial interactions is recommended. Providing chew toys and puzzle feeders can help occupy their attention during downtime, supporting a smooth boarding experience.