The Småland Hound is a breed originating from the province of Småland in Sweden. It was designed for hunting small game, particularly hares and foxes. Over the years, it has become an excellent family companion, valued for its loyalty and balanced temperament.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Origin: Sweden
- Hypoallergenic? No
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight: 15-18 kg (male and female)
- Height: 46-54 cm (male), 42-50 cm (female)
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Exercise Needs: 2 to 3 hours per day
- Apartment Living: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can adapt, but prefers a garden)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Smart, but sometimes stubborn)
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Very attached to its family and loyal)
- Protective: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Not very protective, but alert)
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Playful, but less active than other breeds)
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Barks often, especially when hunting)
- Obedient: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Can be a bit independent and difficult to train)
- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Excellent hunting ability, especially for small game)
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Calm, with bursts of energy)
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Requires regular walks and exercise)
- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Fairly independent but bonded to its owner)
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can get along well with children, but it's better if they are older and respect the dog)
- Other animals: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Will prefer to be alone or with few other animals)
- Strangers: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Rather reserved with strangers)
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can live in an apartment with enough exercise, but prefers a garden)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Moderate brushing)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Relatively low cost)
- Care frequency:
- Brushing: Weekly to maintain a healthy coat
- Ear care: Regular inspection and cleaning to prevent infections
- Exercise: Regular walks and play are necessary for well-being
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 800-1500 €
- Average annual cost (veterinary, accessories, food): 350-500 €
🏡 Important note
The Småland Hound is suited for cold environments due to its dense double coat, but it must be protected from extreme temperatures. It is best to provide it with a large garden where it can expend energy freely. Although this breed is relatively calm and affectionate, it retains a strong hunting instinct, which can make it a bit independent.
👉 Ideal for an active owner living in a house with a garden. 🏡🌲
