Hamiltonstovare

One of Sweden’s most popular hound breeds, the Hamiltonstovare was developed in the late 19th century by one of the founders of the Swedish Kennel Club, Count Adolf Hamilton.

Count Hamilton used a mixture of popular hounds to create his perfect breed - particularly the Foxhound, Harrier, Holsteiner and Heidebracke.

Unlike most of their ancestors however, the Hamiltonstovare is not bred to work in a large pack. Instead, they were developed to be used singly or in pairs, to flush fox and hare to waiting guns. First recognised in 1921, the Hamiltonstovare has remained a relatively rare breed, with a core of breed supporters who endeavour to keep the breed going.

Prior scenthound experience is required, this is a large hound bred to find and flush game – for the pet dog owner that means understanding where game will be and avoiding it, and learning how to motivate your hound to listen to you. You’ll need a big secure garden, access to secure dog walking areas and a desire to spend a lot of time out exercising your dog. Training is necessary but it will be ‘on the go’ as these hounds don’t enjoy repetitive tricks for the sake of it. 

This is a dog who needs a minimum of two hours exercise per day, to include training, games and scent work to keep their mind active and fulfilled. When mature, activities such as Cani-X, fell-running and jogging are likely to help keep the Hamiltonstovare occupied as this is not a dog who will be happy and content with a couple of walks around the block!

Large, frequently muddy, and boisterous when young, the Hamiltonstovare requires a fairly large home and a big, very securely fenced garden. Not a dog for the urban dweller, this hound needs access to lots of countryside walks and secure places to run. Inclined to be vocal when worried, bored or left alone, they are better living in less densely populated areas.

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply offresh water tokeep your pet hydrated.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. 

Dog grooming comes easy when you have a Hamiltonstovarein the family. Just wipe them clean and brush through every few days to check over the body for cuts, scrapes and parasites. Pay attention to paw pads that may pick up grass seeds or grit, and inside the ears too.

Independent minded, and unlikely to be amused by repetitive dog training, the Hamiltonstovare requires a patient and clever trainer who will work with their excellent scenting ability and incredible stamina. Training a solid recall is a must, but careful management with a long-line is likely to be necessary, particularly in new or insecure locations. By using positive reinforcement and sensitive, consistent methods the Hamiltonstovare can become a well-behaved member of the family – although without it, they are inclined to be something of a boisterous hooligan!

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.