Danish-Swedish FarmdogCharacteristics, history, training and care

Wikipedia says the breed probably developed in Scania, in southern Sweden, and was used for centuries on Scandinavian farms as a watchdog, ratter, hunting dog and herding dog. It was also known as the “Danish Pinscher”. The AKC says it most likely comes from crosses between pinschers and fox terriers.

With the industrialisation of Denmark after 1870, the breed became increasingly rare and had almost disappeared by the 1980s. The kennel clubs of Denmark and Sweden worked together to save it, and in 1987 it was officially recognised in both countries.

How the breed developed

• For centuries – The dog works on farms in Denmark and Sweden.
• After 1870 – Industrialisation makes the breed increasingly rare.
• 1987 – Denmark and Sweden officially recognise the breed.
• 1989 – It appears at the World Dog Show for the first time.
• 29 April 2019 – The FCI definitively recognises the breed.
• 2025 – The AKC officially recognises the breed.

Indicative rating: 5 stars means the highest level. It is based on the ratings the American Kennel Club gives the breed and on the FCI standard.

The standard describes it as a small, compact, slightly rectangular dog that matures late. The depth of chest is half the height at the withers.

General appearance

The head is triangular and rather small in relation to the body. The slightly rounded eyes have an alert, gentle expression. The ears are rose or drop ears. The tail may be long or naturally short, carried straight, slightly curved or in a sickle.

White must predominate. Patches of various colours, sizes and combinations are allowed: black, tan, yellow, brown, “badger” and all shades of fawn, including on the head, with or without tan markings. Ticking is allowed.

The standard describes it as alert, watchful and lively. The AKC says it is a curious, friendly and cheerful dog that works on the farm and plays with children.

It learns quickly and takes part in many dog sports: agility, barn hunt, flyball, obedience, rally and scent work.

Tips for effective training

• Use rewards. Praise and play motivate it.
• Teach it tricks. The AKC recommends new tricks as exercise indoors too.
• Watch out with rodents. It was bred to catch rats.
• Socialise it from an early age. It is friendly by nature, and socialisation helps it stay that way.

The AKC recommends daily exercise: play in a fenced yard or walks several times a day. Indoors it enjoys hide-and-seek and a ball rolled across the floor.

Tips for a balanced life

• It suits families with children.
• In winter the short coat gives it little protection from the cold.
• The yard must be fenced.

Coat and skin care

The AKC says it is very easy to groom: occasional brushing and a bath are enough. The nails are trimmed when needed, and the ears are checked for wax.

Common health problems

The AKC says the breed has proved healthy over the years, with no common health problems, genetic or otherwise. As with any small, active dog, it is worth watching for:

Other care

• Check the ears regularly.
• Brush its teeth regularly.
• Trim the nails if they do not wear down on their own.

The AKC says it is an easy and economical dog to keep; any good-quality food is suitable. The portion size should be set together with the vet or the breeder.

Tips for a healthy diet

The table gives a starting estimate, calculated with the formula from the Merck Veterinary Manual. The first two calorie columns show the calories per day for a healthy adult dog. The last column shows what this means in dry food with 3,500–4,000 kcal per kilogram.

• Give it its food in two meals a day.
• Training treats count towards the daily portion.
• A dog is at the right weight when you can feel its ribs without pressing hard.

Foods to avoid

Some human foods are dangerous for dogs: chocolate, coffee, grapes and raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol (a sweetener used in chewing gum), macadamia nuts and alcohol.

Physical and emotional maturity

In dogs, sexual maturity usually comes between 6 and 12 months. Small breeds become adults faster than large ones, usually at around one year.

Mating and pregnancy

Pregnancy lasts about 63 days, counted from ovulation. Mating a female on her first heat is not recommended. The FCI standard requires that only healthy dogs of typical breed appearance are used for breeding.

Caring for the puppies

In small breeds, a litter has 3–4 puppies on average. The puppies are very small and fragile in the first weeks, so they must be kept warm and handled with care. Socialisation starts early: gentle handling, everyday noises and new people.

• Once the “Danish Pinscher”. Wikipedia says it was also known by this name.
• Saved by two countries. Denmark and Sweden worked together to save the breed.
• It matures late. The standard says it reaches adulthood later than other small breeds.
• Long or short tail. Some dogs are born with a short tail.
• An all-rounder. It has been a watchdog, a ratter and a companion.

Where does the Danish-Swedish Farmdog come from?

From Denmark and southern Sweden, where it worked on farms.

How big does it get?

Males measure 34–37 cm and females 32–35 cm; they weigh about 7–9 kg.

Is it good with children?

Yes, the AKC gives it top marks with children.

How long does it live?

The AKC gives 11–13 years.