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Bringing a dog into your home is no easy decision. There are many factors to consider when choosing the best dog for your lifestyle. If you’re hoping to find a true companion that loves to work and is easy to train, look no further than the Danish-Swedish Farmdog. This “Little Big Dog” is the American Kennel Club’s 202nd recognized breed and newest member of the Working Group. It’s eligible to start competing in AKC events on January 1, 2025.

The Danish-Swedish Farmdog’s Temperament

The Danish-Swedish Farmdog is an energetic, loyal, attentive, and highly trainable breed. The DSF is quite intelligent and eager to please their owners. With proper training and socialization, the Danish-Swedish Farmdog can be easygoing and a great fit for many homes.

Danish-Swedish Farmdog standing high on a boulder in the forest.
©Sami Pietikäinen - stock.adobe.com

Physical Traits and Grooming Needs

Danish-Swedish Farmdogs are small, compact, and slightly rectangular. They have a short, smooth coat that comes in a handful of colors. Danish-Swedish Farmdogs stand at about 12.5-14.5 inches tall and weigh between 15–20 pounds.

When it comes to grooming, this breed is fairly low maintenance. DSFs require occasional brushing and bathing to help them look their best. Their ears should be checked regularly to ensure there is no wax buildup. An excess of wax or debris in a Danish-Swedish Farmdog’s ears can lead to infection.

How Much Training Does a Danish-Swedish Farmdog Need?

The Danish-Swedish Farmdog is a very trainable breed. Their attentive nature and eagerness to please their owners tend to make them an easier breed to train. Early socialization and puppy training courses are the easiest ways to ensure your Danish-Swedish Farmdog grows into a well-behaved adult.

Danish-Swedish Farmdog standing in a field of grasses and flowers.
Kewalin Madsen/Shutterstock

This breed is also slower to mature than others, and their puppy phase will last longer than most dogs. Long training sessions can lose this breed’s attention and . Short, regular training sessions and positive reinforcement are some of the best practices to use when working with a Danish-Swedish Farmdog.

Are Danish-Swedish Farmdogs Good For Families?

Danish-Swedish Farmdogs love their humans. They’re affectionate, loyal, and tend to be gentle with children. Daily exercise is necessary to keep the Danish-Swedish Farmdog fit. These dogs have a lot of energy to expend, so plenty of playtime and walks are crucial to keeping them healthy and on their best behavior. Boredom can quickly lead to destructive behaviors in this breed. They would be happiest in an active household. If you enjoy hiking or swimming, the Danish-Swedish Farmdog can make for a great companion.

Danish-Swedish Farmdog puppy walking outdoors.
Taropy/Shutterstock

How Social Is the Danish-Swedish Farmdog?

DSFs tend to be a pretty social breed. They are friendly towards strangers and tend to get along well with other dogs, especially with early socialization. The breed is outgoing, playful, and curious.