Introducing America’s Newest Dog Breed: The Danish-Swedish Farmdog
The American Kennel Club started 2025 with an exciting announcement about a newly recognized breed: the Danish-Swedish Farmdog. The Danish-Swedish Farmdog is the 202nd dog breed to achieve breed recognition by the AKC since the club’s founding in 1884. It is now the smallest dog in the ‘working group’ of breeds, which also includes Doberman Pinschers, Siberian Huskies, and Bernese Mountain Dogs.
“[The Danish-Swedish Farmdog is known as the ‘Little Big Dog’ that loves to work and enjoys a challenge,” says the American Kennel Club in a TikTok announcing this new breed. “They can have many functions including ratter, livestock herder, hunting dog, watchdog, and family companion.”
Source: @americankennelclub/TikTok
Despite their versatility and tenacity that make them excellent working dogs, Danish-Swedish Farmdogs are relatively easygoing, cheerful, and social little pups. Wonderful family dogs that typically do very well with children and other animals, Danish-Swedish Farmdogs have high energy and stimulation needs but equal amounts of love to give their humans.
Come Face-To-Face with 3 Danish-Swedish Farmdogs
Danish-Swedish Farmdogs always have a white base color but can have patches in four different colors: black, brown, fawn, and tan. Let’s meet a few DSFs from Instagram so you can get to know what this newly AKC-recognized breed looks like and prepare to spot one in the ‘wild’.
1. Ove
Ove is an adorable Danish-Swedish Farmdog living in Finland where he likes to enjoy the great outdoors whether he’s physically outside or keeping watch out the window from the couch!
2. Delta & Nera
Delta (left) and Nera (right) are two Danish-Swedish Farmdogs from Trondheim, Norway. Delta is the older sister at eight years old and Nera is the ‘baby’ and just turned one in 2024.
3. Ella & Sigurd
Ella (left) and Sigurd (right) are Danish-Swedish Farmdogs living in Denmark where the breed originates! Sigurd has won multiple awards in dog shows, and both of these pups are beautiful examples of how different this breed can look.
Danish-Swedish Farmdog 101: Temperament, Size & More
Source: @TikTok/tomscryleus
Energetic and social, the Danish-Swedish Farmdog can be a whole lot of fun, but could also give you a run for your money. Just look at this Danish-Swedish Farmdog puppy who has decided the shoe their human is wearing would be the perfect toy!
| Danish-Swedish Farmdog Basic Info | |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Intelligent, attentive, energetic, affectionate, diligent, versatile |
| Height | 12.5–14.5 inches |
| Weight | 15–20 pounds |
| Coat Type | Short, smooth, single-coat |
| Colors | White and Black; White and Brown; White and Fawn; White and Tan |
| Lifespan | 11-13 years |
A generally go-with-the-flow dog breed if given adequate exercise and mental stimulation, Danish-Swedish Farmdogs can make excellent companions for humans who don’t mind a little mischief and stubbornness. Thanks to their high intelligence, Danish-Swedish Farmdogs are very trainable and can learn to do tasks, perform tricks, and do canine sports like agility. Daniel the DSF, for example, has learned how to do this super cute peekaboo trick!
Source: @TikTok/danielthefarmdog
Where Did the Danish-Swedish Farmdog Come From?
Originating in Scandinavia, the Danish-Swedish Farmdog (once called the Danish Pincher) has been mostly isolated to the region for centuries where it has been a vital part of rural life. An all-purpose farm dog and companion, the Swedish-Danish Farmdog was ubiquitous throughout rural Denmark until the late 1870s when broadening industrialization reduced the number of small farms, farming families, and as a result, Swedish-Danish Farmdogs.
Thankfully, efforts by Danish and Swedish lovers of the breed and official kennel clubs helped restore the breed, which has gained slow but steady recognition over the past few decades. The Danish-Swedish Farmdog has been recognized by several international kennel clubs since the 1980s, and with the added recognition of the AKC, you could be seeing a lot more of the Danish-Swedish Farmdog in the coming decade.
1. What is a Danish Swedish Farmdog?
The Danish Swedish Farmdog is a small, energetic dog breed originally from Denmark and southern Sweden. Recognized as a working group breed, it was historically used for hunting, herding, and guarding small farms.
2. Is the Danish-Swedish Farmdog recognized by the AKC?
The American Kennel Club started 2025 with an exciting announcement about a newly recognized breed: the Danish-Swedish Farmdog. The Danish-Swedish Farmdog is the 202nd dog breed to achieve breed recognition by the AKC since the club’s founding in 1884.
3. Where can I find a Danish Swedish Farmdog for sale?
To find a Danish Swedish Farmdog for sale, you can check with the Danish Swedish Farmdog Club or the Farmdog Club of America. Responsible breeders follow the breed standard and participate in dog shows to maintain the quality of the breed.
4. What is the difference between a Danish Swedish Farmdog vs Jack Russell?
The Danish Swedish Farmdog and Jack Russell Terrier share some similarities, such as their smooth-coated appearance and energetic nature. However, the Danish-Swedish Farmdog is a recognized breed with a calmer temperament, while the Jack Russell Terrier is more high-energy and independent.
5. How much does a Danish Swedish Farmdog cost?
The price of a Danish Swedish Farmdog puppy varies, but they typically range from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on the breeder, lineage, and whether they meet the breed standard for dog sports or conformation.
6. Are Danish Swedish Farmdogs good for dog sports?
Yes! The Danish-Swedish Farmdog excels in various dog sports, including agility, obedience, and rally. Their intelligence and athleticism make them great competitors in AKC-recognized events.
7. Is the Danish Swedish Farmdog a recognized breed outside the United States?
Yes, the Danish-Swedish Farmdog is a recognized breed by the Swedish Kennel Clubs and other European kennel organizations. In the United States, it is still in the Foundation Stock Service with the AKC.
8. What is the history of the Danish Swedish Farmdog?
The Danish Swedish Farmdog has a long history as a versatile farm dog in Denmark and southern Sweden. It was used for herding, guarding, and hunting, and it shares ancestry with the Danish Pinscher and other European working breeds.
9. Does the Danish Swedish Farmdog require a lot of grooming?
No, the Danish-Swedish Farmdog has a smooth-coated, low-maintenance coat. Regular brushing and occasional baths are sufficient to keep them clean and healthy.
10. How can I get involved with a Danish Swedish Farmdog breed club?
If you’re interested in learning more or getting involved with a breed club, you can connect with the Danish Swedish Farmdog Club or the Farmdog Club of America. These organizations help promote the breed, provide resources, and organize events like dog shows.
