Pet Wiki

Danish–Swedish Farmdog

Also called Dansk-svensk gårdshund, Scanian terrier, Danish Pinscher · Denmark and southern Sweden

Bright, watchful and full of life.

Comes in

5 sources

Height32–37cm

13–15 inmales 34 to 37 cm, females 32 to 35 cm12

At a glance

Key facts
SizeSmall
Height32 to 37 cm (13 to 15 in)males 34 to 37 cm, females 32 to 35 cm12
CoatShort, smooth, harsh
OriginDenmark and southern Sweden, possibly Scania.13
GroupFCI group 2
alert and lively
loves to work and learn
friendly family companion
124

what they are likeDanish–Swedish Farmdog temperament

Bright, watchful and full of life. It enjoys having a challenge and a job to do, yet it is also a warm, easygoing companion around the house.124

how to spot oneDanish–Swedish Farmdog coat and colours

short, smooth, harsh

A small, compact dog, slightly longer than tall, with a short, smooth coat that feels harsh on the body. It is known to mature late.124

Colourswhite with black patcheswhite with tan patcheswhite with brown patcheswhite with fawn or yellow patchestan points, ticking or flecking allowed12

a typical week and yearThe care rhythm

A typical home-care rhythm for a Danish–Swedish Farmdog. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • Brushingevery week
  • Bathevery 8 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
  • Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
  • ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year

what to watchDanish–Swedish Farmdog health problems

The conditions the breed clubs and health schemes name for the Danish–Swedish Farmdog. Most animals of the breed never get them; this is what to ask a breeder or an insurer about.

  • Patellar luxation The kneecap slips out of place and causes a skipping step; Nordic clubs check the knees of breeding dogs.Patella palpation listed for the breed by the Finnish Kennel Club and the Finnish breed club; no published rate ↗
  • Legg-Calve-Perthes disease The top of the thigh bone crumbles in a young dog, causing limping; surgery usually fixes it.Listed in a 2005 Swedish breed population study; no published rate ↗
  • Primary lens luxation The lens slips out of place and can cause painful glaucoma; a DNA test finds carriers.UC Davis VGL lists the breed for the PLL DNA test; no published rate ↗

Tests a good breeder can show you

  • Patella exam Finnish Kennel Club / Finnish Danish-Swedish Farmdog Club ↗
  • Primary lens luxation DNA test UC Davis VGL (breed listed) ↗

From veterinary references; the breed club publishes no health page we could find. Not veterinary advice: for your own animal, ask your vet.

per year, in your countryWhat a Danish–Swedish Farmdog costs

Running costs for a Danish–Swedish Farmdog, built from current prices in each country: food scaled to the weight of the breed, insurance to its size, the rest per country. The purchase price and unplanned vet bills come on top.

Estimates from the sources linked on each line. Food: a complete dry food at about 3,600 kcal/kg at the NRC maintenance energy for the average weight of the breed. Insurance: a typical adult policy scaled by size; real quotes depend on breed, age and cover.

how busy a day looksDanish–Swedish Farmdog exercise needs

Active and eager; it thrives with daily walks, play and tasks such as dog sports or scent games.41

the hands-on bitsDanish–Swedish Farmdog grooming and care

The short, smooth coat is easy to look after with an occasional brush.12

where they are happiestDanish–Swedish Farmdog at home

Traditionally a farm dog, but its small size lets it adapt to many home settings as long as it gets activity.13

who they like aroundDanish–Swedish Farmdog with people and other pets

A people-oriented companion that likes being involved in family life.41

where it all beganDanish–Swedish Farmdog history

Small white-and-patched dogs have worked on Danish and Swedish farms for centuries as watchdogs, ratters and companions. After the type nearly vanished, the Danish and Swedish kennel clubs worked together to save it and recognised it under its current name in 1987.123

for the dinner tableFun facts

  1. 1

    The AKC nicknames it the Little Big Dog.4

  2. 2

    Despite its terrier-like job as a ratter, it is more closely related to pinschers than to terriers.2

  3. 3

    It first appeared at the World Dog Show in 1989.3

  4. 4

    On farms it has worked as guard dog, rat catcher, hunting dog and even herder.3

for your new friendName ideas

NisseTotteFrejaBusterMollyViggoSuneLykkePippiKajLunaOskar

told by a Danish–Swedish FarmdogA day in the life

I wake up when the sun peeks through the curtains. My humans are still asleep, so I sneak a quick sniff of the toast crumbs on the counter. Then I hear the jingle of the leash, time for our morning walk! I trot proudly, checking every bush for news. After breakfast, I help my human with the crossword by resting my chin on the newspaper. In the afternoon, we play fetch with my squeaky ball. I catch it every time! Later, I curl up on the sofa, tail wagging as my humans laugh at a show. A perfect day.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

the official bitsRecognised by

FCI
Standard no. 356, Group 2, Section 1.1 Pinscher type; standard dated 06.05.2019, countries of origin Denmark and Sweden.1
Danish and Swedish Kennel Clubs
Recognised as a breed in both countries in 1987.1
AKC
Foundation Stock Service from January 2011; fully recognised in 2025; ranked 170th of 202 breeds in 2025.3
UKC
Terrier Group; recognised 2008.2

Popularity Ranked 170th of 202 AKC-registered breeds5

homemade and simpleTreats they will love

All treat recipes for dogs

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

the things everyone asksOwner questions

How often should I feed my Danish–Swedish Farmdog, and at what times?

Feed adult dogs at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Stomachs empty within a few hours, so regular meal times help. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.6

What should a Danish–Swedish Farmdog eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a complete, balanced dog food. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Never give alcohol, caffeine, or raw dough. Always check with your vet for a safe diet.7

How often should I bathe a Danish–Swedish Farmdog?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every eight weeks, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty. At least once every three months is fine. Use a dog-safe shampoo.8 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Danish–Swedish Farmdog need brushing?

Brush the short, smooth coat weekly to keep it healthy and reduce shedding. Pet Wiki's plan recommends brushing every seven days. This easy coat needs only occasional care.128 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Danish–Swedish Farmdog's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every three weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part). If unsure, ask a vet or groomer for help.8 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Danish–Swedish Farmdog need?

This active dog thrives with daily walks, play, and tasks like dog sports or scent games. Pet Wiki suggests daily exercise. It's a bright, eager breed that enjoys a challenge.41 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Danish–Swedish Farmdog's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth daily with dog-safe toothpaste, and check ears weekly for moisture or dirt. Floppy ears trap moisture, so dry them gently. Never push anything into the ear canal.8 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Danish–Swedish Farmdog live?

This breed is generally healthy and can live a long life. Senior years usually start around age 10. For specific lifespan, ask your vet or a good breeder. Pet Wiki plan

Is a Danish–Swedish Farmdog good with children and other pets?

Yes, it is a warm, easygoing companion that enjoys being part of family life. It is bright and watchful, making it a good fit for homes with children and other pets when properly socialized.124

Can a Danish–Swedish Farmdog be left alone?

This people-oriented dog likes being involved and may not do well left alone for long periods. It thrives on companionship. For specific advice, ask a vet or a good breeder.41

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Sources (5)

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. FCI Standard N° 356, Dansk-Svensk Gårdshund fci.beused for recognition, size, coat, colour, temperament, history
  2. UKC Danish-Swedish Farmdog breed standard ukcdogs.comused for UKC recognition, size, history
  3. Wikipedia: Danish–Swedish Farmdog en.wikipedia.orgused for AKC dates, history, fun facts
  4. AKC Danish-Swedish Farmdog breed page akc.orgused for nickname, temperament
  5. AKC most popular dog breeds 2025 akc.orgused for popularity
  6. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  7. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  8. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Text is written in our own words from these sources.