Smålandsstövare
The Smålandsstövare is the oldest of Sweden's three stövare (hound) breeds — developed in the forests of Småland province over several centuries from local Swedish hunting dogs.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Origin
Sweden
Lifespan
12–15 years
Weight
15–20 kg (33–44 lbs)
Height
42–54 cm (17–21 in)
Diet
Omnivore — high-quality food for an active scent hound.
Taxonomic Hierarchy
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
The Story
The Smålandsstövare is the oldest of Sweden's three stövare (hound) breeds — developed in the forests of Småland province over several centuries from local Swedish hunting dogs. It is smaller and calmer than the Schillerstövare and Hamiltonstövare, and has the distinctive natural bobtail (short or absent tail) common in the breed. Named for Småland — the forested south-central Swedish province where the breed developed — it is the quintessential forest hound of the Swedish hunting tradition.
Also Known As
Quick Facts
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Physical Profile
Source: wikimedia
A medium-small to medium-sized scent hound with a black and tan coat with minimal white markings — darker and more understated than the Hamiltonstövare or Schillerstövare. Natural bobtail common. Short, dense coat.
Grooming
Low
Shedding
Moderate
Coat Colors
Recognized By
Source: wikimedia
Temperament & Personality
Calm, loyal, and gentle — the most easy-going of the Swedish stövare breeds. Good family companion as well as capable hunting dog.
Living Profile
Care & Wellness
Professional Care Protocol
- •1.5–2 hours vigorous exercise daily. Very low grooming.
Vaccination Schedule
Vaccination Schedule
Health Overview
Generally healthy. Hip dysplasia. The natural bobtail does not cause health problems in this breed.
Common Conditions
Fun Facts
The Smålandsstövare has a natural bobtail that is common in the breed — caused by a dominant gene. Unlike the Pembroke Welsh Corgi or Braque du Bourbonnais where the bobtail gene can be problematic, the Smålandsstövare bobtail gene appears to be free of associated health concerns.
