Overview
The Smaland Hound, or Smålandsstövare, comes from the forested province of Småland in southern Sweden, where small farmers needed one dog that could hunt hare, fox and sometimes bird. It is the smallest of the Swedish hounds, black with tan markings, and many are born with a short bobtail. It is scarce even in Sweden and very unusual in Britain.
Unlike many pack scenthounds it was bred to work alone with a single hunter, which gives it a closer bond with its handler and a calmer temperament around the home. Outdoors it is still a hound: nose down, following a line, baying when it finds.
Exercise and walking needs
Around ninety minutes a day in two walks suits an adult, with scope for a brisk trot and plenty of scent work. The breed is hardy and copes well with cold, wet weather thanks to its dense coat.
Keep the mind busy with tracking games and varied routes. A tired nose makes a calmer dog.
On the walk
- Recall: Better than some scenthounds because of the handler bond, but scent still wins when it matters. Secure ground for free running.
- Pulling: Moderate and steady. A harness is comfortable and gives good control on a trail.
- Other dogs: Generally calm and tolerant, less boisterous than many hounds. Fits a steady group walk.
- Voice: Will bay on a hot scent. Not a nuisance barker at other times, but the hunting voice carries.
Tips for professional walkers
- Walk routes with varied scent but low wildlife traffic near roads.
- Reward check-ins consistently and keep the long line handy for open ground.
- Check feet and ears after wet woodland walks and dry the dog if it has been through standing water.
What to ask the owner
- Has the dog been worked or is it purely a companion, and how does it react to wildlife?
- Where does the owner feel safe letting the dog off, and how reliable is the recall there?
- Does the dog get on with other dogs, and are there any it should not meet?