Overview
The Halden Hound, or Haldenstøver, comes from the town of Halden in south-eastern Norway, where hunters wanted a scenthound that could run hare alone across snowbound terrain and bring the hunter in by voice. It is a medium to large, short-coated hound, predominantly white with black patches and tan shading, with a deep chest and long legs for soft ground.
The breed is rare even in Norway and almost unknown in Britain. Those who keep it describe a calm, gentle dog in the house with a quiet confidence outdoors. It was bred to hunt solo, so it tends to be less pack-focused than French hounds and more inclined to work independently of you.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour and a half a day of real walking with scope for scent work. The breed has long-distance stamina and is comfortable in cold, wet weather that keeps other dogs indoors.
Variety helps: forest tracks, open fields and, in winter, anywhere there is frost or snow for the dog to enjoy. Short, warm, urban circuits will not satisfy it.
On the walk
- Recall: Bred to run a hare out of sight and keep going. Use a long line in anything but a fenced field.
- Voice: Gives tongue on scent so the hunter can follow. Expect it when the dog hits a line.
- Other dogs: Usually peaceful and polite, with no history of pack squabbling. Fine in a steady group.
- Weather: Loves cold and snow. Heat is where it struggles, so shorten summer walks and seek shade.
Tips for professional walkers
- Harness and long line as standard; the neck is fine and the lunges are sudden.
- Pick routes with hare or rabbit activity only if you are prepared to hold on.
- Walk early in summer and enjoy the winter months when the dog is at its best.
- Give the dog unhurried sniffing stretches; it is working, not dawdling.
What to ask the owner
- Has the dog hunted, and how does it respond to a recall once on a trail?
- How does it cope with warm weather, and when does the owner cut walks short?
- Is it used to other dogs, and does it live happily with any?