How long do Danish Swedish Farmdogs live? Origin and all we know as newest breed added to American Kennel Club lineup

The Danish-Swedish Farmdog (DSF) is a new breed recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). This dog breed is a very versatile, friendly animal. Originating in Denmark and Sweden, it traces its ancestry from the agriculture industry of both nations, which initially used this as a farm dog, catching various vermin while at the same time serving as a watchdog.

The Danish-Swedish Farmdog typically lives from 16 to 18 years of age. Nonetheless, some Danish-Swedish Farmdogs might live up to 20 years. Such an extended life is attributed to its overall health and the absence of some usual genetic disorders among this breed.

Some reports indicate its life span from 11 to 13 years, whereas most breeders have reported and claimed that, on average, many of their breeds live between ages 13 to 16. The breed is predominantly healthy, and breeding is done appropriately by screening mainly for hip and eye disorders.

Carey Segebart, who worked to get DSF recognized by the AKC, told AP:

“We’re excited about it. We’re looking forward to it.”

“They’re interesting, fun little dogs. They’re essentially up for anything. They succeed at most everything.”

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Origin and History of the Danish-Swedish Farmdog

While the origins are a bit fuzzy, some key historical points illustrate the development and importance of the breed.

According to AKC, the Danish-Swedish Farmdog originated as early as the Viking Age since some of its skeletons have been found in the burials of Vikings. The results point to their significant importance as companion dogs in hunting and on farms.

Ancestors of the breed probably descended from working dogs in general in Europe during this period, with terriers and pinschers in abundance.

By the 1700s, even more regions beyond the Scandinavian region recognized this breed, including Great Britain, Germany, and France. The breed performs a multi-purpose function for farm dogs and was quite good at catching vermin and guarding livestock.

The breed was common in southern Sweden's Skåne region and eastern Denmark, where it became an integral part of rural life.

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Decline and preservation efforts

AKC further elaborates that the mid-20th-century industrialization of agriculture was the reason behind the decline in small farms across Denmark and Sweden, marking a reduction in the population of farm dogs.

By the 1960s, the purebred Danish-Swedish Farmdog had practically disappeared. However, a few breeders fought hard to keep the bloodlines of this breed alive, which was disappearing as agriculture continued to change.

Concern about the future of the breed motivated the breeders to make formal efforts to develop a recognized breed standard in the 1970s. In developing and preserving the Danish-Swedish Farmdog, the Danish Kennel Club collaborated closely with the Swedish Kennel Club.

In 1987, the first 130 DSFs were registered in Denmark, marking a significant milestone in the route leading to formal recognition. It was during the World Dog Show held in Denmark in 1989 that the breed would first get to be showcased.

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Recognition by kennel clubs

It was in 2008 that the Danish-Swedish Farmdog received provisional acknowledgment from the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). This was obtained through the concerted efforts of both kennel clubs. With this recognition, the breed gained broad acknowledgment on an international stage. Full FCI recognition was given in 2019.

DSF was recognized officially by AKC in January 2025 and is among the newest breeds in the organization.

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Characteristics of Danish-Swedish Farmdog

Size: Its weight ranges from 15 to 20 pounds, and its height is 12.5 to 14.5 inches.

Appearance: The dog's body is compact, smooth, and white, patched with other colors, a triangular head, and different types of tails.

Temperament: Danish-Swedish Farmdogs are friendly and laid-back. They are not as high-strung as many terriers; they are low-key when they aren't doing something. They are companion dogs and can make great family pets with a loving attitude toward children.

Health problems: Generally, the Danish-Swedish Farmdog is a healthy breed. Breeders often screen for specific health issues such as:

• Primary Lens Luxation (PLL): An eye condition that can lead to blindness.
• Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Joint conditions which may cause immobility.
• Patellar Luxation: Knee problem, which can sometimes be painful and sometimes lameness.