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Hamiltonstovare Breed Summary
Intelligent, Energetic, Friendly, Patient and Even-Tempered
Hailing from Sweden, these dogs are highly prized in their native country because of their fantastic hunting abilities! It's thought that they also share ancestry with a variety of Foxhounds and Harriers. They are inept at hunting by themselves as opposed to staying in packs but are also often seen to work in pairs. For this reason, they may be able to live with another dog as well! But no small animals, as they have very high prey drives!
They are very lovely to look at, and highly-regarded for their intelligence, which in turn makes them relatively easy to train. Their high energy also means that they would best suit a family who already lead an active lifestyle that they can easily slot into.
Fun Fact: They are one of the most popular breeds in Sweden!
Kennel Club Group | Hound |
Lifespan | 10 - 13 Years |
Height (at the withers) | Males 53cm - 61cm, Females 49cm - 57cm |
Weight | Males and Females 23kg - 27kg |
Coat | Coats are Double, consisting of a Close and Soft Undercoat. Topcoat is Weather Resistant and Lies Close to the Body |
Colour | Tricolour |
Eye colour | Dark |
Common health issues | Hip dysplasia, Elbow dysplasia, Epilepsy, Cancer, Bloat |
Other Names | Hamilton, Hamilton Hound, Swedish Foxhound, Hamiltonstövare |
Hamiltonstovares are discussed as being very well-rounded dogs who absolutely love 'hoomans'. However, they are very intelligent and energetic and demand a lot of time, physical and mental stimulation from their owners. For this reason, they don't necessarily make the best dogs for first-time owners. Because they love being with their families, they don't like to be left by themselves for long periods of time. If they are left, it can result in them becoming bored or developing separation anxiety, which can lead to some very destructive behaviours. They need a huge amount of exercise and so would best suit a family who already lead an active lifestyle that they can easily slot into. Additionally, they have a very high prey drive so would not do well in a home with other animals, such as hamsters and cats. However, for the right family, they make fantastic pets and have the ability to provide you with years and joy and happiness!
These dogs, also known as Hamilton Hounds, are a very highly-prized breed in the country of Sweden, although little of them is known beyond the borders! The man who developed them was called Hamilton, hence the breed name, and interestingly enough, it's thought the breed isn't actually native to Sweden. Supposedly they had been imported from other European Countries, including a province in North Germany called Schleswig-Holstein. It's thought that their ancestors probably include the Leithunde, a dog with short legs and long ears. In fact, there are even records to prove they are related, as written by Gaston Phoebus in a hunting book in the 14th century. They became popular with nobles around the reign of King Karl XII, from the 17th and right up until the end of the 18th century. Over time, this dog has become very healthy and well-rounded through extensive selective breeding and this is the reason they remain so loved in their country!