Breed comparison
Dalmatian vs Swedish Vallhund
How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.
5Affection with family5
3Good with young children5
3Good with other dogs3
4Openness to strangers3
4Playfulness4
4Energy level4
4Trainability4
4Mental stimulation needs4
4Adaptability4
4Watchdog / protective3
3Barking3
4Shedding4
2Coat grooming2
2Drooling2
The biggest differences
- Good with young children: the Swedish Vallhund scores 5 out of 5, the Dalmatian 3.
They score the same on affection with family, good with other dogs, playfulness, energy level, trainability, mental stimulation needs.
Which one should you choose?
Pick the Dalmatian if you want a more protective watchdog. Pick the Swedish Vallhund if you have young children.
Ratings are general breed tendencies from the AKC. Every dog is an individual, so meet the dog, and its parents if you can, before you decide. Not sure? Try the breed selector.
Source: American Kennel Club breed ratings (compiled February 2022). How we check.