Smaland Hound

The Smålandsstövare is the oldest Swedish scent hound, and the smallest — a black-and-tan hare hound from the Småland forests.

History

Farmers in Småland kept hounds of this type from the sixteenth century, bred from local dogs crossed with hounds brought back by soldiers from continental wars. By the 1940s it was close to gone; Swedish breeders rebuilt it, and it remains rare even in Sweden. Some are born with a naturally short tail, which the standard permits.

Temperament

The breed is known for being calm and affectionate at home, tough in the field and more biddable than most hounds.

Care and training

It needs a great deal of exercise and secure ground. The short dense coat suits Swedish winters and needs little.

Health

Generally robust, with a small population as the standing caution. These are patterns for the breed rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.