Known as the Danish Pinscher, the Danish-Swedish Farmdog (DSF) is also known as the Danish Pinscher. These dogs are native to southern Sweden and Denmark. Aside from hunting and tracking, they were also used as watchdogs and guard dogs on farms in the past.
Because of their gentle disposition, the DSF also makes a wonderful companion. Because of their kind and peaceful nature, these dogs are appropriate for both families and the hunt. Your home could benefit greatly from one of these dogs if you're prepared to keep it active and stimulated.
They're perfectly content to lounge around the home, but to ensure their contentment, make sure your dog has some sort of activity to do, like hunting or tracking. Dog breed characteristics and facts about Danish-Swedish Farmdogs are included below.
Highlights
- Tricolour and bicolour coats can be found in the Danish-Swedish Farmdog. White, brown, and black are the recognised standard colours for this breed.
- The coat of the breed is fairly low maintenance. Families with children who suffer from allergies should avoid getting one of these dogs because of how much hair they shed.
- They need a lot of exercise because of the breed's hunting and working roots.. They'll also struggle if they're left alone for long periods of time.
- Children should be taught the right technique to play with dogs and supervised at all times while playing with the Danish-Swedish Farmdog.
- With other pets, the Danish-Swedish Farmdog thrives on the camaraderie. Because of this, hamsters, rabbits and rodents are not a good match for them.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
It's a common misconception that a little dog is better suited to living in a limited space. Many tiny dogs have too much energy and are too yappy to live in an apartment building. An apartment dog's best attributes include being quiet, low energy, somewhat peaceful indoors, and respectful to the other inhabitants. Your dog's personal space in your apartment can be improved by purchasing one of these fantastic dog cages.
Sensitivity Level
Depending on the dog, a strong rebuke can be taken in stride by some, while others regard even the tiniest hint of disapproval as a personal attack. If you have a loud or pushy owner, a chaotic home, or a routine that is unpredictable or variable, your low-sensitivity dog, often known as "easy-going," "tolerant," "resilient," or even "thick-skinned," will be able to handle it better. Do you have young children, host a lot of parties, or have a hectic lifestyle? Choose a dog that isn't overly sensitive.
Intensity
You can't tell from looking at them whether or not they're hyperactive, but when they do anything, they do it vigorously. They tug at their leashes (unless you teach them not to), they push their way through barriers, and they down their meals in huge, gobbling gulps. A home with young children or an elderly or feeble person may not be the best place for these dynamos to learn proper etiquette. On the other side, a dog with poor vitality adopts a more reserved demeanor.
Potential for Playfulness
The playful nature of certain dogs never fades away, and they're always ready for a game, whereas the reserved and serious tendencies of other dogs develop through time. Think about how many times a day you want to play fetch or tag with your dog, and whether or not you have children or other dogs who can act as substitutes.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
In the same way as working dogs, such as those that herd sheep, are bred for intelligence and decision-making, working dogs like those who run all day need to exercise their bodies. The two most common activities that a bored pet engages in are digging and chewing, both of which require mental stimulation. There are several ways to keep a dog's brain active, including obedience training, interactive dog toys like tug of war, and dog sports like agility and search and rescue.
Energy Level
Energy-draining dogs are always on the lookout for a new activity. There are several jobs that require a lot of stamina from dogs, such as herding livestock or recovering prey for hunters. Children are more likely to engage in activities such as jumping, playing and exploring new sights and smells as a result of this change in their environment
A low-energy dog is more like a couch potato than a dog that needs a lot of exercise. Think about your level of physical activity and whether or not you find a hyperactive dog irritating before making your final choice.
Easy To Train
Easy to train dogs can more easily form associations between a cue (like "sit"), an action (like sitting), and a reward than dogs that are more difficult to train. Dogs that require more time, patience, and repetition are more difficult to train.
Getting your dog interested in training will require incentives and games because many breeds are intelligent but have a "What's in it for me?" mentality when it comes to learning new things.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Since puppyhood, some breeds remain aloof and independent; others form deep bonds with one individual but are uninterested in the rest of the family; still other types shower their entire family with affection. Canines raised in homes with people tend to be more open to human interaction and develop stronger ties, regardless of their breed or upbringing.
Kid-Friendly
Kids-friendly dogs are calm, strong enough to bear the hefty hugs and pets kids can dish out, and have an unfazed attitude about rushing, scream-inducing children. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking Both Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are regarded as family dogs (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, which are small, sensitive, and potentially sharp, are not always family-friendly.
Dog Friendly
Dog friendship and human friendship are two entirely different things. The fact that a dog is friendly with humans doesn't mean it's immune to aggression or aggression from other dogs; some canines choose to play rather than fight; others will just run away. The type of animal isn't the only consideration. Dogs who have spent a lot of time playing with their littermates and their mother at the age of six to eight weeks are more likely to be socially competent.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
Having a dog in the house means that you'll have to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothing and in the home. It's worth noting, however, that shedding varies widely among breeds. Some dogs shed all year long, while others ``blow" just during specific times of the year, and still others don't shed at all. If you're a stickler for cleanliness, you'll need to choose a breed that sheds less or lower your expectations. You can use a deshedding tool to keep your house a little cleaner.
Drooling Potential
While greeting you, some dogs may cover their arms with ropes of drool and create large, wet patches on your clothing. If you don't mind a little drool, go for it; but if you're a stickler for cleanliness, you may want to look for a dog with a low drool rating.
Easy To Groom
Some breeds of dogs can simply be brushed and left alone, while others require frequent washing, trimming, and other grooming in order to maintain their health and appearance. If you don't have the time or money to take care of a dog that requires a lot of grooming, you may want to look into hiring a professional.
Exercise Needs
Evening walks around the neighbourhood are perfectly acceptable for some breeds. Others, particularly those trained for physically demanding vocations like herding or hunting, require regular, rigorous exercise.
They can gain weight and release their pent-up energy in ways you don't like, including barking, chewing, and digging, if not given enough exercise. Those looking to train their dog for an energetic canine activity, such as agility, should consider getting a dog that needs a lot of exercise.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Weight
15 to 20 pounds
Lifespan
11 to 13 years
Height
12 to 15 inches
History
With a long history in Scandinavia, the Danish Swedish Farmdog, also known in its native country as the Dansk-svensk grdshund, swiftly rose to prominence because to its adaptability and upbeat demeanour. These animals were praised by farmers for their fearlessness in the face of bigger predators and their ability to play with youngsters and fit in well with the household.
They were revered by the locals for their company and even their ability to entertain, and were traditionally used on small farms as ratters, hunters, and watch dogs. While travelling with the "Circus Benneweis," a Danish circus, five Danish-Swedish Farmdogs put on an entertaining show.
The popularity of the Danish Swedish Farmdog began to diminish as farmers became less reliant on their canines as a result of new technology and machines. A popular local television show, Matador, may have played a part in saving the breed. Furthermore, the breed had gained a household name in its original countries by the turn of the twentieth century. There were no Scandinavians who would allow this breed to become extinct, because it was so synonymous with the farmyard as red barns.
The Kattegat strait separates eastern Denmark from southern Sweden, and in 1987, Denmark and Sweden collaborated on a breed standard and agreed on a name for the breed. The Danish Swedish Farmdog is frequently referred to as the "Danish Chicken Dog" due to an error in Bruce Fogle's Encyclopaedia of the Dog. Since the Danish Swedish Farmdog was printed under the name "Danish Chicken Dog," this is the reason. Even now, this blunder causes misunderstanding.
An American breeder, Ms. Melody Farquhar-Chang, wanted to bring the Danish Swedish Farmdog to California after reading about it in Bruce Fogle's book. Her search for a Danish Chicken Dog quickly changed when she was pointed in the right path by a Danish breeder.
It was not long before she acquired a female Danish Swedish Farmdog named 'Flora,' which she named after Agerhonen. Insemination from a Danish stud dog resulted in the birth of a male puppy, who was dubbed 'Solo' after his father, Han Solo. Mrs Farquhar-Chang was one of the founding members in 2003 of the Danish Swedish Farmdog Club in the United States (DSFCA) (DSFCA). In addition to being popular as household pets, these dogs compete in a wide range of canine sports and activities.
Personality & Temperament
The Danish Swedish Farmdog is versatile and eager to learn, making it an excellent candidate for training. They have a lot of enthusiasm, are outgoing, and treat everyone they meet with kindness and good manners. Care should be exercised with smaller pets, which may be mistaken for prey, since they are well-suited for living with youngsters and other canines. From an early age, it is beneficial to expose them to a range of small animals.
In the past, they were used as farm guard dogs, and now they are perfectly suitable watchdogs; their sharp senses allow them to bark at the first sign of an intruder. Contrary to looks, the Danish Swedish Farmdog does not display many of Terrier's bad features, such as persistent barking, hyperactivity, or dog aggression. A lack of adequate and appropriate outlet for their high quantity of energy could lead to undesired behaviours like furniture chewing or digging in the backyard. In the home, the Danish Swedish Farmdog should be kept calm by providing him with plenty of activities such as running, playing, puzzles, and chewing.
Care
All dogs, including the aforementioned Danish-Swedish Farmdog, require regular health checks and vaccinations.
The DSF necessitates a lot of physical activity or mental stimulation, such as hunting or playing. Once or twice a month, trim their nails so they don't get too long. If you hear them clicking, you're doing something wrong. This can be handled by your pet's groomer or veterinarian.
Health
Danish Swedish Farmdogs are known for their longevity and robustness. Orthopaedic anomalies should be tested for in breeding parents.
Hip Dysplasia
The abnormality of the hip joints causes lifelong pain and mobility difficulties, and it has the potential to be life-threatening. A variety of medications, including anti-inflammatories and opioid pain relievers, are used to treat affected animals. Surgery has the potential to enhance quality of life in some patients.
Patellar Luxation
One or both knees may be affected by this disorder, which causes the kneecap to pop out of place. The severity of the ailment is scaled from 1 to 4, with 4 being the most severe. It is possible for dogs with the disease to "hop" by holding one of their limbs in the air for a number of steps. In more severe situations, surgery may be necessary.
Recommended Health Test
- OFA
- Yearly Physical Examination
Nutrition
Danish Swedish Farmdogs eat roughly a cup of dog food each day, give or take, depending on their unique activity levels. Your preferences and the food's nutritional value will determine whether they consume canned, dry, or handmade food. It's up to you whether you ask your vet for ideas on high-quality foods for your pups or just go shopping on your own.
Look for a diet specifically formulated for tiny dogs and puppies until your pup reaches the age of 12 months, at which point he or she is considered an adult. For best digestion, your dog should continue to eat small-breed dog chow as an adult. Choose foods like sweet potatoes and flaxseed that are high in vitamins and minerals from entire foods like meat and omega-3 fatty acids.
Grooming
Maintenance because of their short, smooth coats and low shedding, these dogs require little grooming on a weekly basis. All that's required is a quick wipe down of the ears and a few brushings. They'll have healthy nails thanks to the frequent walking you'll be doing. They don't need baths because they keep themselves clean enough most of the time.
Exercise
Despite their little size, these pups have a lot of energy. Every day, they can walk or hike for a few miles without tiring. They enjoy playing with children in the yard or going for a walk at the dog park. Playing activities like fetch is a great way to get your dog some exercise. Danish-Swedish Farmdogs require regular mental stimulation as well. At the very least, they should be exposed to some sort of activity, whether it's through toys or training programmes, on a daily basis.
Training
Obedience training is essential for every Danish Swedish Farmdog in order to help them adapt to life in a household with established rules. Once your puppy is old enough, you should begin teaching it basic obedience commands, such as "sit," "down," and "stay," as soon as possible. Throughout your dog's life, it's important to encourage the proper use of obedience commands by engaging in frequent training sessions.
Therapy training is an option for senior dogs once obedience training and a life spent living in close proximity to people have been completed. Because of their speed, agility is an excellent option for these dogs.
Children and Other Pets
The demeanour of the Danish-Swedish Farmdog is superb, and he is quite laid back. With children and families, this dog is a joy to be around! However, even if the breed is fine with children, it is critical that the children are likewise good with dogs before getting one. Playing with dogs should be supervised at all times. If so, the DSF is a great companion for you!
Dogs are a great source of companionship for the Danish-Swedish Farmdog. The DSF is nice with other dogs and loves to play. It's just prey that should be avoided because it's in their nature to hunt, so be wary of anything in this group. A house cat that has been properly socialised should have no problems living in your home.
All things considered, the Danish-Swedish Farmdog is a wonderful companion for families, children, and other pets (as long as they're larger than a bunny) in the home. Still, it's important to start socialising your cat as soon as possible to ensure that they grow up to be outgoing and friendly.
Puppies
The Danish Swedish Farmdog often has litters of two to four puppies. Due to the small stature of this breed, puppies grow considerably faster than those of larger breeds. Early training and socialisation of Danish Swedish Farmdog puppies is critical for their eventual development into well-adjusted adult canines.
Dog Breed Similar to Danish-Swedish Farmdog
- Alano Espanol
- Cane Corso
- Doberman Pinscher
- Chien Francais Blanc et Orange
- Chien Francais Tricolore