GROUP 4 - HOUNDS

Brief History
The Hamiltonstovare was founded in the late 1800’s by Count Adolf Patrick Hamilton who sought a sturdy hound to hunt fox and hare in Sweden’s difficult terrain and harsh climate. He based the breed on English Foxhounds crossed with some German hunting dogs. He is the National Dog of Sweden.

Average Life Span
When considering a dog please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime.
The average life span is 14 to 17 years.

Temperament
Even tempered, calm, friendly, alert. Very intelligent.

General Breed Description
The Hamiltonstovare is a handsome, upstanding dog, hardy, with great stamina, and very athletic. He traditionally is not a pack hound and works singly or in a pair, forming close bonds with those around him. He also gets on very well with other dogs and humans. He is good both indoors and outdoors.
The striking colour is a feature of the breed. The rich tones of the black and tan body, offset with clear white extremities, are very distinctive and attractive.
There are not many Hamiltonstovare in Australia, but they are popular overseas.

Coat and Care Requirements
The coat is medium/short, smooth and close lying to the body. It requires a good brush weekly and an occasional bath to keep it in shining condition.
This breed needs moderate exercise, so a daily walk is recommended, and being a hound needs secure fencing.

Size
Height: Males 53 to 61cms (21 to 24ins), Females 49 to 57cms (19.25 to 22.5ins).

Health
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders it is recommended you enquire about breed’s health and what health testing the breeder does. The Hamiltonstovare is essentially a healthy bred. However, health conditions will occur occasionally.

Suitability
The Hamiltonstovare is an excellent family dog and ideal to be an active working companion during the day and quiet friend in the evenings.

In Conclusion
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.
Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.
Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.

Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard https://dogsaustralia.org.au/breed/detail/139