Hamiltonstovare

The Hamiltonstovare, also known as the Hamilton Hound, is a Swedish breed of dog primarily used for hunting hare and fox. It's a medium to large-sized hound, known for its stamina, intelligence, and friendly disposition. These dogs thrive in environments where they can get plenty of exercise and have a job to do.

Hamiltonstovares are affectionate with their families and generally good with children, making them suitable family pets for active households. However, their strong prey drive means they require careful socialization around smaller animals. Their excellent scenting abilities and tireless nature make them valuable hunting companions.

The Hamiltonstovare was developed in the late 19th century by Count Adolf Hamilton, the founder of the Swedish Kennel Club. He aimed to create a versatile and robust hunting hound that could effectively track hare and fox across the varied Swedish terrain. The breed was created by crossing various German hounds with local Swedish hounds. The goal was to develop a hound that had a keen nose, powerful physique, and tireless work ethic.

The Hamiltonstovare was officially recognized as a breed by the Swedish Kennel Club in 1886. Its popularity quickly grew among Swedish hunters, and the breed has since gained recognition in other countries as well. While not as well-known as some other hound breeds, the Hamiltonstovare is highly valued for its hunting abilities and pleasant temperament.

Interesting facts about the breed

• The Hamiltonstovare is named after its creator, Count Adolf Hamilton.
• They possess a tricolor coat, typically consisting of black, white, and tan markings.
• Hamiltonstovares are known for their loud and melodious bark, which is used to signal the location of game during hunts.
• They require a significant amount of exercise to stay happy and healthy, making them best suited for active owners.
• The breed's intelligence and eagerness to please make them relatively easy to train, although consistency is key.
• Due to their strong prey drive, Hamiltonstovares should always be kept on a leash or in a secure fenced area when not hunting.