Smaland Hound Dog Breed [ FULL Guide + Pictures ]

Alright, let’s talk about a dog breed that might not always make it to the top of the "most popular" lists, but one that deserves all the attention: the Småland Hound. Named after the stunning region of Småland in southern Sweden, this dog is known for its loyalty, hunting skills, and a truly charismatic presence. If you’re the type of person who loves a dog that has both brains and brawn, you’re going to be fascinated by the Småland Hound.

These dogs have been bred for generations to assist hunters, particularly when it comes to tracking down game like boar and foxes. Their determination and strong prey drive make them remarkable companions for hunting enthusiasts. But don’t let their working dog background fool you-Småland Hounds are also fantastic family pets, known for being affectionate, loving, and surprisingly laid-back.

Now, let’s dive into some detailed insights into the breed, from its history to its personality, and everything in between!

Definition Of The Småland Hound Dog Breed

So, what exactly is a Småland Hound?

The Småland Hound is a medium-sized, muscular dog breed that originally hails from Sweden. They were developed specifically for hunting small to medium-sized game like hares, foxes, and boar. While they’re adept at tracking and hunting, these dogs were also bred to be alert, intelligent, and loyal. In fact, Småland Hounds are often described as having a "bold" yet gentle personality, which makes them excellent companions for active families who enjoy outdoor activities.

This breed is part of the larger family of Scandinavian hunting dogs and is often classified as a type of Swedish Hound. However, they’re a bit of a hidden gem when it comes to breed recognition outside of Sweden.

A quick glance at the Småland Hound might make you think it’s just another energetic, rugged hunting dog. But dig deeper, and you’ll see there’s more to this dog than meets the eye, especially if you consider their temperament, physical build, and the history behind their creation.

Physical Characteristics Of The Småland Hound Dog Breed

When you look at the Småland Hound, the first thing that stands out is its athletic, compact body. These dogs are built for endurance, and every part of their physique serves a functional purpose, whether it’s for running, tracking, or making precise turns during a hunt.

Here’s a breakdown of their physical features:

• Head: The Småland Hound has a well-proportioned head with a broad, slightly rounded skull. Their eyes are almond-shaped and expressive, typically dark brown, giving them an alert and intelligent look.
• Ears: Their ears are moderately long and set high, with a slightly rounded tip. When they’re alert, the ears stand upright or have a soft fold.
• Body: A strong, medium-sized dog, the Småland Hound is built for stamina rather than speed. Its body is sturdy and well-muscled, which makes it a formidable hunter. The neck is slightly arched, and the chest is deep but not overly broad.
• Tail: The tail is another defining characteristic-it’s thick and carried high, often curling over the back in a gentle arch. When they’re excited or in a hunting mode, the tail can be seen wagging energetically.
• Coat: The coat of the Småland Hound is short, dense, and weather-resistant. It’s designed to withstand cold weather and harsh hunting conditions. The texture is typically stiff to the touch, yet surprisingly soft once you get close.

All in all, this breed has a robust, practical look, but with a touch of elegance. Their body is designed for working in the field and running through dense underbrush, which is one of the reasons they excel at their job.

Colors Of The Småland Hound Dog Breed

Now, let’s talk about what this dog looks like in terms of color.

The Småland Hound typically has a bi-color coat. Here are the most common color variations:

• Black and Tan: This is the most recognizable color pattern. The body is mostly black, with tan markings around the face, legs, and underbelly. These dogs often have distinctive tan “eyebrows” that give them an inquisitive look.
• Red and Tan: Some Småland Hounds are a rich red color with tan accents, particularly around the face, chest, and legs. This color gives them a warm, natural look, blending well with their surroundings in the forest.
• Tricolor: A less common but still beautiful color combination, tricolor Småland Hounds feature a mix of black, tan, and white. The white usually appears on the chest, paws, and the tip of the tail, creating a stunning contrast.

These dogs often have a coat that changes subtly with the seasons, especially in colder climates, with the color becoming more intense during the winter months.

Size Of The Småland Hound Dog Breed

When it comes to size, the Småland Hound is considered a medium-sized dog, though their athletic build makes them appear a bit more compact than they actually are. Here are some specifics:

• Height: On average, Småland Hounds stand between 17 and 20 inches (43 to 51 cm) at the shoulder.
• Weight: They typically weigh between 33 and 44 pounds (15 to 20 kg), with males being slightly larger than females. This size range gives them the perfect balance between agility and strength-small enough to maneuver quickly in dense terrain but large enough to take on bigger game.

Despite their medium size, these dogs are quite powerful and possess great endurance, which is why they were specifically bred for long hunting trips in the wild.

Life Expectancy Of The Småland Hound Dog Breed

When it comes to how long a Småland Hound will be by your side, you’re looking at a fairly healthy breed with a solid life expectancy.

• Life Expectancy: The average lifespan of the Småland Hound is around 12 to 14 years, which is relatively typical for dogs of their size. With proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary check-ups, many Småland Hounds can live well into their teens, remaining active and playful throughout their lives.

Because they were bred as working dogs, they tend to be quite resilient, with fewer hereditary health problems compared to some other breeds. However, like any dog, they can still be prone to certain conditions, such as hip dysplasia and eye problems, so regular health monitoring is essential.

Temperament Of The Smaland Hound Dog Breed

The Smaland Hound (or Smålandsstövare) is an intelligent, lively, and generally happy dog with a strong personality. Let’s break it down:

• Friendly And Social

  • These dogs love to be around people. Whether it’s family, friends, or strangers, they enjoy interaction.
  • They can sometimes be a bit reserved around unfamiliar people, but once they get comfortable, they are affectionate and loyal.

• Independent Yet Loyal

  • Smaland Hounds are known for their independence, which stems from their hunting heritage. They have a tendency to think for themselves, especially when tracking scents.
  • However, despite their independent nature, they form strong bonds with their owners and will be incredibly loyal once they trust you.

• Energetic & Playful

  • This breed is always on the go! They were bred for hunting, so they have a lot of stamina and energy.
  • They’re not couch potatoes, and if you don’t give them enough physical and mental stimulation, they might find ways to entertain themselves… often by causing a little bit of mischief.

• Good With Kids And Other Pets

  • They generally get along well with children and can be gentle playmates, but, like any dog, early socialization is key.
  • While they’re generally good with other pets, you may need to keep a close eye on them around smaller animals (like rabbits or cats), since their prey drive can be strong due to their hunting background.

Any Shedding Issues For The Smaland Hound Dog Breed?

Ah, the dreaded shedding issue. For the Smaland Hound, it’s not too bad, but let’s break it down:

• Moderate Shedding

  • Smaland Hounds have a double coat, which helps them in the wild, but it means that they shed year-round.
  • You’ll notice heavier shedding during seasonal changes, particularly in spring and fall when they “blow” their coat.
  • Their outer coat is dense and wiry, and the undercoat is soft, both of which contribute to the shedding.

• Maintenance

  • Regular brushing is a must! Brushing two to three times a week will help you keep shedding under control and remove dead hair.
  • During the shedding season, you might want to up it to daily brushing, especially if you’re tired of finding fur all over your house.

• Allergies

  • If you or someone in your home has dog allergies, the shedding can exacerbate that, so keep that in mind when considering the breed.

Grooming Needs For The Smaland Hound Dog Breed

This breed isn’t super high-maintenance when it comes to grooming, but they do require some attention to keep their coat in tip-top shape:

• Coat Care

  • As mentioned, they have a thick double coat. The wiry outer coat doesn’t tangle easily, but the soft undercoat can get matted if not brushed regularly.
  • Use a pin brush or an undercoat rake to get through their thick coat, especially during shedding seasons.

• Bathing

  • Smaland Hounds don’t require frequent baths. Bathing them every few months is typically enough, unless they roll in something smelly (they’re hounds after all!).
  • Use a mild dog shampoo to avoid drying out their skin.

• Nail Care

  • These dogs are quite active, so their nails naturally get worn down, but you’ll still need to trim them every 3-4 weeks.
  • Pay attention to their paws and clean them after outdoor walks, especially if they’ve been hiking in the mud or snow.

• Ear Cleaning

  • Because they have floppy ears, they are prone to ear infections, so check them regularly. Wipe their ears with a damp cloth to keep them clean and dry.

Diet Requirements Of The Smaland Hound Dog Breed

Smaland Hounds are active, high-energy dogs, so their diet should reflect that. Here’s what you need to know:

• High-Quality Protein

  • Being a hunting breed, they need a diet rich in high-quality animal protein. Chicken, turkey, beef, and lamb are great options.
  • Protein supports their muscles and energy levels, which is essential for their active lifestyle.

• Fat Content

  • Smaland Hounds need moderate fat levels in their diet. Fat provides energy, and since they’re quite active, they require that extra boost.
  • Look for dog food with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to keep their skin healthy and their coat shiny.

• Carbs & Fiber

  • Although not a huge concern, Smaland Hounds benefit from some complex carbohydrates, like sweet potatoes or brown rice, for steady energy.
  • Fiber will also aid in their digestion, so look for foods that include veggies like peas, carrots, and pumpkin.

• Avoid Overfeeding

  • They tend to gain weight if not properly exercised, so avoid overfeeding and measure their food intake carefully.
  • Divide their meals into two or more smaller portions throughout the day, especially if they’re active.

Health Issues Of The Smaland Hound Dog Breed

Generally, Smaland Hounds are a healthy breed, but like any dog, they can be prone to certain conditions. Here’s what you should be aware of:

• Hip Dysplasia

  • Like many larger dog breeds, Smaland Hounds can be susceptible to hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to pain and arthritis.
  • Regular vet checkups, maintaining a healthy weight, and providing low-impact exercise can help prevent this.

• Ear Infections

  • Their floppy ears make them prone to ear infections. Regular ear cleaning can help, but always watch for signs of infection like redness, odor, or frequent scratching.

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

  • PRA is a genetic condition that affects the retina and can lead to blindness. While not common, it’s something to be mindful of.

• General Health Tips

  • Smaland Hounds are generally healthy, but be sure to feed them a balanced diet, keep them at a healthy weight, and make sure they get enough exercise.

Training And Exercise Needs Of The Smaland Hound Dog Breed

This breed is a working dog, so they need both physical and mental stimulation:

• Training

  • Smaland Hounds are intelligent, but they can be a bit independent or stubborn, especially when they pick up a scent trail.
  • Positive reinforcement works wonders! Reward-based training with treats and praise will keep them motivated.
  • Start early with socialization and basic obedience training. They tend to be more trainable if they are exposed to various environments, people, and animals from a young age.

• Exercise Needs

  • These dogs were bred for tracking and hunting, so they have high exercise needs. They love running, hiking, and chasing after things.
  • Expect to give them at least 1-2 hours of vigorous exercise every day, split between walks, play, and some off-leash time in a secure, fenced area.
  • Without enough physical exercise, they might become bored and start digging, chewing, or barking excessively.

• Mental Stimulation

  • Smaland Hounds thrive when they have a job to do. Consider activities like scent games, hide-and-seek, or agility training.
  • Interactive toys and puzzle feeders are also great ways to keep their minds engaged when they’re indoors.

FAQs

What Is A Smaland Hound?

The Smaland Hound is a medium-sized, versatile hunting dog breed originating from Sweden. Known for its stamina, excellent sense of smell, and tracking skills, it was primarily bred to hunt small game like hares and foxes.

What Is The Origin Of The Smaland Hound?

The Smaland Hound is native to the Småland region of southern Sweden, where it was developed to help hunters track and chase small game. The breed dates back to the 19th century and is a result of crossing local Swedish hounds with other European hunting dogs.

How Large Does The Smaland Hound Get?

The Smaland Hound typically stands between 18 to 21 inches (46 to 53 cm) tall at the shoulder and weighs around 35 to 45 pounds (16 to 20 kg). Males tend to be larger than females.

What Is The Temperament Of The Smaland Hound?

The Smaland Hound is known for its loyalty, independence, and intelligence. While it is affectionate with its family, it can be reserved or even aloof with strangers. Due to its strong hunting instinct, early socialization and training are essential.

Is The Smaland Hound Good With Children?

Yes, the Smaland Hound is typically good with children. It is patient and gentle, but due to its energetic nature, it may need supervision around young kids. Proper training and socialization are important to ensure positive interactions.

What Kind Of Exercise Does A Smaland Hound Need?

As an active and energetic breed, the Smaland Hound requires regular exercise. It enjoys long walks, runs, and time spent exploring outdoors. A couple of hours of physical activity each day is recommended to keep them healthy and happy.

Does The Smaland Hound Shed A Lot?

The Smaland Hound has a dense, short coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. Regular brushing, especially during the shedding seasons (spring and fall), can help manage the shedding and keep their coat in good condition.

What Health Issues Are Common In The Smaland Hound?

The Smaland Hound is generally a healthy breed, but like many dogs, it can be prone to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and ear infections due to its floppy ears. Regular veterinary checkups are essential for monitoring these conditions.

Is The Smaland Hound Easy To Train?

The Smaland Hound is intelligent and eager to please, but it can also be independent and stubborn. Early training using positive reinforcement methods is important. Socialization from a young age will help the dog become more adaptable in various situations.

Can A Smaland Hound Live In An Apartment?

While the Smaland Hound can adapt to living in an apartment, it is not ideal due to its high energy levels. This breed requires plenty of space and exercise, so living in a home with a yard would be more suitable for its needs.

Smaland Hound Dog Pictures