Sweden's prized scent hound, known for its unwavering dedication and compact size. This guide dives into the world of Drever, exploring everything from its rich history to care essentials, helping prospective owners understand what makes this breed a unique and worthy companion.
Breed Summary
Origin
The Drever's lineage traces back to early 20th-century Sweden, where it was developed from the German Westphalian Dachsbracke. Officially recognized as a distinct breed in 1947, the Drever was bred to hunt deer and other game, leveraging its excellent scent-tracking abilities. Its popularity in Swedish hunting circles speaks to its effectiveness and adaptability to rugged terrains.
Appearance
Characterized by its long body and short legs, the Drever stands out with a sturdy build that belies its size. Typically measuring between 11 to 16 inches at the shoulder, Drevs weigh in at around 32 to 34 pounds. They possess a straight, harsh coat that comes in various colors, including fawn, black and tan, with white markings. Their expressive eyes and long, droopy ears add to their charm and endearing appearance.
Temperament
Drevers are known for their persistence in the field and their amiable nature at home. They bond closely with their families, exhibiting loyalty and a gentle disposition that makes them excellent companions. Their alertness and vocal nature also make them effective watchdogs, though they are not typically aggressive.
Health Outlook
Drevers generally enjoy a healthy lifespan of 12 to 15 years. They are, however, prone to common canine ailments like dry, itchy skin, which can be mitigated with regular grooming and the use of premium dog shampoos. These shampoos not only cleanse but also moisturize the skin, relieving discomfort and promoting coat health.
Nutritional Requirements
A balanced diet enriched with a complete healthy multivitamin is crucial for maintaining the Drever’s vigor. High-quality dog food that caters to their energy levels and size is recommended, alongside multivitamins that support overall health, enhance immune function, and ensure they get all necessary nutrients.
Exercise Requirement
Despite their small size, Drevers are energetic and require regular exercise to stay healthy. Daily walks, coupled with opportunities to run and play in a secure area, are sufficient to meet their physical needs, ensuring they remain fit and content.
Pros and Cons of Owning the Breed
Pros:
- Strong bonding and family-oriented nature.
- Suitable for active individuals or families.
- Manageable size for various living conditions.
Cons:
- Can be stubborn, requiring consistent training.
- Prone to barking, which might be an issue for some households.
- Requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to avoid boredom.
Space Requirements
Drevers are adaptable to various living situations, from apartments to houses with yards. However, they thrive in environments where they can move freely and explore, making access to a yard or nearby parks beneficial.
Suitability for Elderly
Their manageable size and affectionate nature make Drevers suitable companions for the elderly, provided that the exercise needs of the breed can be met.
Suitability for Kids
Known for their patience and playful nature, Drevers are great with children. They make vigilant playmates, though interactions should be supervised, especially with younger children.
Cost
The initial cost of a Drever puppy typically ranges from $600 to $1,200, depending on the breeder's reputation and the dog’s lineage. Prospective owners should also consider ongoing expenses such as health care, grooming, and nutrition.
What Should the Owner Be Like?
Drever owners should be active, patient, and committed to providing regular exercise, training, and socialization. An understanding of scent hound behaviors will help in managing their tracking instincts and vocal tendencies.
Fun Facts
- The name 'Drever' is derived from the Swedish word 'drev', which refers to a type of hunt where game is driven towards the hunter.
- Despite their small size, Drevers are renowned for their ability to take on game much larger than themselves, including deer.
Conclusion
The Drever stands as a testament to the ideal blend of a hunting hound and family companion. With its friendly demeanor, moderate care requirements, and robust health, the Drever offers the best of both worlds for those looking for an active canine partner. Their suitability for various owners, from families with children to the elderly, makes them a versatile and rewarding breed to consider.
Are you familiar with the Drever or have this wonderful breed in your family?
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