Drever Dog Breed [ FULL Guide + Pictures ]

Imagine a small, energetic dog that looks like it’s always ready for an adventure, yet has that calm demeanor when curled up by your side. That’s the Drever, a breed that is a bit of a hidden gem in the dog world. Originally bred in Sweden, this spunky little hound is known for its strong hunting instincts, loyalty, and friendly nature. While the Drever is primarily a hunting companion, it has gradually gained recognition as a beloved family pet thanks to its charming personality and compact size.

In this guide, we’ll uncover everything you need to know about the Drever, from its historical roots to its quirky physical traits. Whether you’re considering adopting one or are just curious about this fascinating breed, you’re in the right place!

Definition Of The Drever Dog Breed

The Drever is a breed of hound that was developed primarily in Sweden for tracking and hunting small to medium-sized game, such as hares and rabbits. It’s often described as a "Swedish Dachsbracke" or simply a "Swedish Coonhound", reflecting its connection to the broader group of hound breeds.

• Origins: The Drever’s history dates back to the early 20th century. It’s a crossbreed of the Dachshund, German Pinscher, and other small hounds. The goal was to create a dog with the tracking abilities of a hound but the compactness and agility of a terrier.
• Temperament: Known for being calm and balanced, Drevers are extremely loyal to their families and are typically very good with children and other pets. Although they were bred to work independently in the field, they are also quite sociable and can be a bit playful at home.
• Hunting Skills: These dogs are known for their fantastic scenting ability and high endurance, which makes them excellent at tracking animals over long distances. Despite their small stature, they can work tirelessly in the field, following scents for hours.

Physical Characteristics Of The Drever Dog Breed

When you first glance at a Drever, you might think of a small hound, with its sleek, athletic body and expressive eyes. But, let’s break it down in a bit more detail.

• Body Structure: Drevers are compact and have a muscular build, designed for tracking and hunting. They’re much shorter than many other hounds, with their elongated body reminding you of a Dachshund, but with a more robust frame.
• Head: They have a broad head with a noticeable stop between the forehead and nose. Their large, dark eyes give them a curious and intelligent expression. The ears are medium-sized, hanging loosely and slightly rounded at the tips.
• Coat: The Drever’s coat is short, dense, and smooth, offering protection in different weather conditions. The texture is rougher than what you might find in a typical lapdog, making it better suited for outdoor activities.
• Tail: One standout feature is the tail – it’s fairly long, straight, and tapers to a point, usually held slightly upward when the dog is alert or excited.
• Movement: This breed is known for its easy-going gait that’s both smooth and graceful. While they’re often described as being a “little tank”, their movements convey a sense of determination and athleticism.

Colors Of The Drever Dog Breed

The Drever’s color palette is diverse, often reflecting the natural surroundings it was bred to track in. Here’s a closer look at the color variations you might come across:

• Black and Tan: A very classic and common color, with a black body and tan markings on the legs, face, and eyebrows. This coloring is often associated with hounds and gives the Drever a traditional, rugged look.
• Red and Tan: Some Drevers are more of a reddish-brown color, with the same tan markings. This gives them a slightly more warm, amber tone, which is equally striking.
• Liver (a deep brown): Although less common, some Drevers have a liver-colored coat that’s very rich and deep in tone.
• Tricolor: You’ll also find some Drevers with a mix of black, tan, and white, often resembling the colors of a beagle. This coloring is particularly striking and gives the dog a very ’hunting dog’ vibe.
• Markings: Most Drevers will have white spots on their chest, feet, or tail tip, giving them a unique and elegant touch to their otherwise bold coloring.

Size Of The Drever Dog Breed

Let’s talk size, because this is one of the most distinctive traits of the Drever. They’re small, but strong!

• Height: On average, the Drever stands between 13 to 15 inches at the shoulder. It’s the kind of dog that’s just the right size for anyone who loves a compact, yet sturdy hound.
• Weight: These dogs typically weigh between 25 to 35 pounds, which is relatively light for a hound but still gives them that strong, muscular build.
• Proportions: Their short legs and long body make them distinctly “low-to-the-ground”, perfect for tracking on rough terrain. The fact that they’re low but muscular also gives them an agility that other breeds their size might not have.

Life Expectancy Of The Drever Dog Breed

The Drever is generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, it can be prone to certain health issues. Luckily, they don’t have an exceptionally long list of hereditary conditions.

• Average Lifespan: Drevers usually live around 12 to 14 years, which is on par with most small to medium-sized dog breeds. Of course, their life expectancy will depend on factors such as diet, exercise, and overall health care.
• Health Issues: Common health concerns in Drevers include hip dysplasia and deafness (as is often the case in many hound breeds). As with all dogs, early and regular vet visits can help to mitigate most health issues.
• Active Lifestyle: Due to their active nature, these dogs often stay in excellent health, especially if they get a lot of exercise and stimulation. Their keen sense of smell keeps them mentally sharp, and their need for physical activity prevents them from becoming overweight or sedentary.

Temperament Of The Drever Dog Breed

The Drever, also known as the Swedish Dachsbracke, is a small but tough hunting dog. Their temperament can be summarized as:

• Affectionate and Friendly: Drevers are typically very loyal to their families. They tend to form strong bonds with their humans and are very affectionate, always looking for love and attention. They enjoy being part of the family, so you’ll often find them by your side.
• Energetic and Playful: Despite their small size, Drevers are full of energy. They have a playful nature and enjoy interacting with both humans and other dogs. Their hunting instincts make them keen to chase things, which can result in lots of playful activities.
• Independent Yet Trainable: While Drevers are independent thinkers (a trait that comes with their hunting background), they are also very trainable. They might not always come when called right away (since they tend to be more focused on scents and trails), but with patience and positive reinforcement, they can learn quickly.
• Good with Kids: These dogs generally get along well with children. Their playful, friendly demeanor makes them great companions for kids who will give them plenty of attention.
• Stubbornness: Like many scent hounds, they can sometimes show a stubborn streak. This is important to note if you’re planning on training a Drever-being consistent and patient is key.

Any Shedding Issues For The Drever Dog Breed?

When it comes to shedding, the Drever doesn’t require major attention, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Moderate Shedding: The Drever has a short coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. You won’t need to constantly vacuum the house, but you may notice hair around the house, especially during seasonal changes.
• Seasonal Shedding: Drevers tend to shed more in the spring and fall as they transition between winter and summer coats. During these times, they might leave more hair around the house, so brushing becomes a necessity to keep things tidy.
• Minimal Odor: The good news is that their short coat doesn’t tend to hold onto smells as much as some longer-haired breeds, so even though they shed, they’re usually quite clean.

Grooming Needs For The Drever Dog Breed

Grooming a Drever is fairly straightforward, but there are still a few key things to consider for maintaining their coat and overall health:

• Brushing: Due to their moderate shedding, it’s best to brush a Drever at least once a week, especially during the shedding seasons. A soft-bristle brush or a grooming glove works wonders on their short coat. This helps to remove loose hair and keeps the coat looking sleek.
• Bathing: Drevers don’t require frequent baths. Once every few months or as needed (depending on how dirty they get) should suffice. Be careful not to over-bathe, as it can strip their natural oils, leaving their coat dull.
• Ear Cleaning: As with many dogs, Drevers have floppy ears that can trap dirt, wax, and moisture. Regularly checking and cleaning their ears is a good idea to prevent infections. Use a vet-approved ear cleaner, and avoid inserting anything too deep into the ear canal.
• Nail Clipping: Like any dog, regular nail clipping is a must to prevent overgrowth. You’ll want to check their nails every few weeks and trim them as needed.
• Teeth Care: Dental hygiene should also be a priority. Dental disease can lead to broader health issues, so brushing their teeth or providing dental chews a few times a week will help keep them in top shape.

Diet Requirements Of The Drever Dog Breed

A healthy diet is essential to keeping your Drever happy and active. Here’s a breakdown of what they typically need:

• High-Quality Dog Food: Drevers do best on a high-quality dog food that is rich in protein. Since they were originally bred as hunting dogs, they require a diet that provides plenty of energy. Look for dog food with meat (chicken, lamb, or beef) as the first ingredient.
• Portion Control: Drevers have a tendency to gain weight if overfed, so portion control is important. They’re relatively small dogs, but they do need a balanced intake to maintain their health. Make sure to feed them according to their age, size, and activity level.
• Avoid Overfeeding: As energetic as they are, Drevers do have a tendency to become less active as they get older, so their calorie needs decrease with age. This can make it easy to overfeed them, leading to obesity. Always measure their food and be mindful of treats.
• Healthy Treats: Offering healthy, low-calorie treats is a great way to reward your Drever during training sessions without contributing to weight gain. Veggies like carrots or apple slices are healthy snack options.
• Hydration: Don’t forget to keep fresh water available for your Drever at all times, especially if they’re running around or playing a lot!

Health Issues Of The Drever Dog Breed

Overall, the Drever is a healthy breed, but there are a few health concerns that you should be aware of:

• Hip Dysplasia: Like many dogs, Drevers can develop hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit properly into the hip socket. It can cause pain and mobility issues as they age. Regular vet check-ups and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage this.
• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Drevers, like other dogs with long bodies, are prone to intervertebral disc disease, where the discs between the vertebrae in their spine slip or herniate. It can cause back pain, and in severe cases, paralysis. Keeping them at a healthy weight and avoiding excessive jumping can reduce the risk.
• Ear Infections: Their floppy ears, while adorable, can lead to ear infections, especially if moisture or dirt builds up. Regular cleaning is essential to avoid chronic ear infections.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): This is a genetic condition where the dog’s vision deteriorates over time. While it’s relatively rare in Drevers, it’s still something to keep an eye on, especially as they age.
• Epilepsy: Although not common, some Drevers can be prone to seizures. This is something that you should discuss with your vet during regular health checkups.

Training And Exercise Needs Of The Drever Dog Breed

Training and exercise are two major components in keeping a Drever happy and healthy. Here’s how you should approach both:

• Training

  • Drevers are highly intelligent and can learn quickly, but they are also independent thinkers. This means they might not always listen to commands right away, especially if something has caught their attention (like a scent).
  • Positive reinforcement is key. Reward-based training, like using treats or praise, will motivate them.
  • Consistency is important. Training sessions should be short, fun, and frequent so that they stay engaged.
  • Early socialization is vital to ensure they’re well-adjusted with other animals and people.

• Exercise Needs

  • Drevers are very active dogs that need plenty of exercise to burn off their energy. They love outdoor activities like walking, running, and playing in a secure yard.
  • Ideally, a daily walk of at least 30-45 minutes is necessary, along with some playtime.
  • Because they’re scent hounds, they enjoy tracking scents, so activities like hide-and-seek with treats or agility training are great ways to engage their minds.
  • Be aware that they have strong prey drives, so they may want to chase small animals like squirrels, rabbits, or even smaller dogs. Keep them on a leash unless you’re in a secure, fenced area.

FAQs

What Is A Drever Dog?

The Drever is a small to medium-sized breed of dog that originates from Sweden. It is known for its remarkable hunting abilities, particularly in tracking and chasing small game like rabbits and foxes. The breed has a distinct long body, short legs, and a determined, energetic personality.

What Is The History Of The Drever Dog?

The Drever is a relatively new breed, developed in Sweden during the 20th century. It was bred from the Swedish Elkhound, combined with other hound breeds, to create a dog specifically suited for hunting in the dense forests of Scandinavia. The breed was officially recognized by the Swedish Kennel Club in the 1940s.

What Is The Temperament Of A Drever Dog?

Drevers are known for their calm, affectionate, and friendly temperament. They are intelligent, loyal to their owners, and typically get along well with children and other pets. However, due to their hunting instincts, they can sometimes be independent or stubborn during training.

What Is The Size Of A Drever Dog?

Drevers are a medium-sized breed, typically standing between 12 and 15 inches (30 to 38 cm) tall at the shoulder. They weigh between 25 to 35 pounds (11 to 16 kg), making them compact yet sturdy.

How Much Exercise Does A Drever Dog Need?

Drevers are active dogs with moderate to high exercise needs. They require regular physical activity, such as daily walks and outdoor play, to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Since they were bred as hunting dogs, they enjoy activities like scent tracking and agility training.

Is The Drever Dog Good With Children?

Yes, Drevers are generally good with children. Their calm and affectionate nature makes them suitable companions for families. However, like any breed, it’s important to supervise interactions between young children and dogs to ensure safety for both.

How Long Do Drever Dogs Live?

Drevers have a typical lifespan of 12 to 15 years, which is relatively long for a dog of their size. With proper care, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary visits, they can live a healthy and active life.

Do Drever Dogs Shed A Lot?

Drevers have a short, dense coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. They will shed more heavily during seasonal changes, particularly in spring and fall. Regular grooming, including brushing a couple of times a week, can help manage shedding.

Are Drever Dogs Easy To Train?

Drevers are intelligent and eager to please, but their independent nature and strong hunting instincts can sometimes make training challenging. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, work best. Consistency and patience are key when training a Drever.

What Are Some Common Health Issues With Drever Dogs?

Drevers are generally a healthy breed, but they can be prone to certain conditions like hip dysplasia, ear infections, and obesity. Regular veterinary check-ups, maintaining a healthy diet, and ensuring they get enough exercise can help minimize health risks.

Drever Dog Pictures