Ask yourself...


 






"Am I really ready for the long-term commitment of having a dog?"


Before you bring any dog into your life and home, please take the time to consider the commitment you are making and the responsibilities you will have. Having a dog is a long-term commitment -- for most breeds of dogs, at least 10 to 15 years. Many people bring puppies into their homes without really thinking it through. They make "spur of the moment," impulsive decisions which many times turn out to be the wrong decisions. The unfortunate dogs in these instances many times end up abused, in dog rescue, or at the pound awaiting adoption or an untimely death.


Please consider that when you bring a puppy or dog into your home, you are adding a new family member to your "pack," because that is how your puppy or dog will understand it. As the dominant "people-dogs," in the relationship, and "leader of the pack," we have obligations to care for our dogs as best we can. We are responsible for proper training, feeding, medical care, breeding, grooming and housing. We are also responsible for providing them companionship and security. In return, our dogs enrich our lives as ever-faithful companions whose only wish is to please us and offer us their unconditional love.


If you are honestly ready for this commitment, next consider which type of dog best fits into your lifestyle.  Do some research. There are numerous websites devoted to dog breed education.  You might check out the Online Dog Encyclopedia.  You may also find additional books and encyclopedias at your local library to help you understand the differences in types and breeds of dogs. Take some time to honestly think about what you are looking for and what you will expect from your dog. Also, think about what you are able to give in the relationship. Make a list of the qualities you desire in a dog and look for one that matches that type. You and your dog will be happier if the "fit" is right.
 

 



"Is the Danish-Swedish Farm Dog the right choice for your lifestyle?"

 The Danish/Swedish Farmdog's general appearance can be seen in the various photographs posted throughout this website. Also, please refer to the FCI Breed
Standard.


 


This small compact dog ranges from 12-15 inches in height, measured at the shoulder and weighs between 17-25 pounds on average. Females range 12-14 inches, 18-22 pounds, and males range 13-15 inches, 20-25 pounds.            


                                                                         Size perspective:  Great Dane, Labrador, McNab, Farmdog    

                                                                                                       Photo: S. Weber          


The farmdog body is compact, almost rectangular with well-sprung ribs and slightly tucked underline.  The head is slightly small in proportion to the body.  The natural tail carriage is slightly curved and not curled or flat over the back.  Natural bobtails of various lengths do occur.


The breed is generally healthy with no identified breed-specific inherited disorders. Regular veterinary check-ups and appropriate immunizations will help insure the continued health of your dog.


The farmdog coat is short, close, smooth and shiny and pretty much odor-free with minimal grooming. Shedding is seasonal, though in temperate climates may occur to some extent year-round.  The predominant coat color is white with patches of various colors: black (with or without tan markings), brown, liver-brown (with or without tan markings), yellow-red, yellow, as well as other acceptable colors. 


Toenails should be trimmed regularly and attention should be paid to their teeth to prevent tartar build-up. (Good luck with toenail trimming -- farmdogs are notorious for disliking this grooming necessity, and are not likely to forget it if you ever nick them.)


Farmdogs require between 300-500 calories per day depending on their overall size and activity level. Kennel Flora supports the "BARF" diet as well as home-cooked and high quality kibble formulations.  More information may be found on the canine nutrition page.  Providing safe "chewing" type treats or toys will help maintain teeth and promote overall good oral health.


Farmdogs are full of personality. In general, these dogs are alert, lively, sweet, friendly, curious and full of playfulness and fun. This is not an aggressive breed. They make good family dogs and they adapt well to other dogs. They love attention, and will, at times, demand it. There are ranges in personality types and energy levels within all breeds. Your breeder will be able to help you make the right choice for your family. It is wise to rely on the breeder's assessment.





The Danish-Swedish Farmdog is highly intelligent and easily trained. You can expect them to learn all sorts of  entertaining tricks and obedience with proper training. Proper, positive reinforcement training is important.  If you don't train them, they will train you!  These dogs have excellent memories and do not forget things easily. They love toys, interactive games and sports -- anything that will entertain them.  Most of all, they love their "people dogs," and they loyally bond to them.




Photo:  D. Lofgren


Danish-Swedish farmdogs require exercise.  They can adapt to many levels of activity, from low to high, but remember, these are "working" dogs and they like to have a job.  Ideally, they need about one hour of vigorous exercise daily.  If you do not have a yard, it is important to take them for regular walks.  You might consider  participating in a dog sport such as Flyball, Agility, Herding, Dock Dogs, Dancing or some other activity like obedience or Rally O.  Many farmdogs are well-suited as therapy dogs as well.


                                                                                                            Photo:  H. Kuenzi   


This breed was bred for it's versatility - an all-purpose "Farmer's Dog." They have instincts for catching mice and rats and they like to chase rodents. They like to dig. This breed has herding and hunting instincts. This breed was used as the farmer's watchdog, and may be slightly wary of strangers.  Once the stranger is introduced by the owner, the farmdog warms to the new acquaintance.  Farmdogs learn to swim easily, though some individuals seem to like the water more than others. Some Farmdogs have been trained as certified search and rescue dogs.  This breed truly is an all-purpose dog breed.




Photo:  Kennel Flora


If you are ready for a dog, and you believe the Danish-Swedish Farmdog is the breed for you, please contact Kennel Flora.