Hamiltonstovare

A smart-looking, strong, medium/large hound who is longer than he is tall, the Hamiltonstovare has a short, close-lying tricolour coat (black, tan and white). Adult male dogs are 53-61cm tall and adult females 49-57cm tall. They weigh 23-27kg.

The need-to-know

Dog suitable for owners with some experience
Some training required
Enjoys active walks
Enjoys walking one to two hours a day
Medium dog
Minimum drool
Requires grooming once a week
Non hypoallergenic breed
Chatty and vocal dog
Not a guard dog
May require training to live with other pets
Great family dog

Personality

A good-tempered hound, the Hamilton dog breed makes an affectionate companion, provided he can fulfil his hunting instincts. A country-loving dog, he will follow his nose for miles, so a reliable recall is essential – as well as escape-proof fencing in your garden. They love people and are gentle, but can be a little too boisterous and bouncy for a home with toddlers.

History and Origins

The Hamiltonstovare dog breed is one of the most popular hound breeds in his native Sweden. He was developed in the late 19th century by one of the founders of the Swedish Kennel Club, Count Adolf Hamilton, after whom he takes his name. The breeds that go into his make-up are the Foxhound, Harrier and various German hounds (including the Holsteiner, the long-legged Curland Hound, and the Heidebracke). He doesn't work in a pack, unlike other hounds, but hunts singly or in pairs, flushing fox and hare for the gunsman.

Nutrition and Feeding

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed him at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food.

Exercise

This is not a dog that will be happy with a quick walk around the block twice a day – an active, energetic dog, the Hamiltonstovare needs at least two hours' daily exercise, preferably off-lead in a safe area so he can run and sniff to his heart's content. If bored or underexercised, he will understandably become destructive and dig, chew and bark to amuse himself.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

The Hamiltonstovare is generally a healthy, robust breed with no widely recognised breed specific health problems.

Best Family Dog Breeds

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.