Drever
Other name: Swedish Dachsbrake
The Drever is a small, short-legged scent hound used for tracking deer and other game. She's closely related to German Hound breeds and was imported into Sweden in 1901. The Drever is almost exclusively kept as a working dog. However, she can make an excellent family pet. This is an alert, self-confident little dog that is neither aggressive or shy. But she is very independent. Owners looking for a companion dog might be disappointed as this dog can be quite aloof.
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Life expectancy |
The Drever has a life expectancy of between 12 and 14 years |
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Temperament |
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Size |
Small
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Adult size |
Female
Between 12 and 14 in
Male
Between 13 and 15 in
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Adult weight |
Female
Between 33 and 37 lb
Male
Between 33 and 37 lb
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Coat colour
White, brown, and black tricolour. |
Black
White
Brown
Red
Sand
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Type of coat
Short, flat, coarse. |
Short
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Eye colour
Dark brown. |
Brown
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Owners need to be firm and consistent. Otherwise this dog can become very stubborn. While the Drever is very popular in her own country, she is virtually unknown elsewhere.
More details about the Drever
Drever: Origins and history
Little is known about the Drever before the 1930s, when she gained a reputation as an excellent deer tracker. She was then registered in 1947, and in 1953 recognised as a Swedish breed. The Drever is considered the first choice for deer and fox tracking, although she’s also skilled in tracking smaller game. All scenthounds have an excellent sense of smell, but the Drever’s is thought to be one of the very best. Even in her native Sweden, Drevers are rarely kept as pets. This is a real working dog.
FCI classification of the Drever
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Group 6 - Scent hounds and related breeds
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Section 1 : Scent hounds
Drever: Characteristics
Owners looking for a companion dog are advised to look at some different breeds. The Drever is a very independent dog that enjoys her own space. If accustomed from a young age, she can become a pleasant companion.
While not as playful as some other working dogs, the Drever will enjoy games and activities that stimulate her tracking instincts.
She has an ardent, tenacious, and alert character.
Like most scent hounds, the Drever is a quick learner with a natural desire to impress the pack leader. But intelligent dogs like the Drever can be hard to handle.This dog needs a firm but fair pack leader.
The Drever was bred to hunt and is an excellent tracker. She has a superb sense of smell, excellent vision, and a determined nature.
The Drever isn’t fearful or wary of strangers. She’s just not that interested in them. These dogs prefer to do their own thing instead.
The Drever is a very independent dog that likes to do things her own way. Any owners will need to be firm, consistent, but fair. Passive dog owners will be overwhelmed by this headstrong animal.
Drever: Behaviour
She can stay alone, but always prefers the company of other dogs or her humans.
An experienced handler should have no problem training this dog, but the first time owner may have a tough time. Training must be started early, to prevent the puppy becoming too headstrong.
She doesn’t bark very often, but this little dog can make a very big noise. So start her training and socialisation as early as possible.
She is designed to follow tracks, and will pursue an interesting smell out of the garden if it is not sufficiently secure.
She needs constant stimulation, and will cause significant destruction if her needs are not met.
The Drever isn’t greedy but it’s really important to manage her food intake. Treats will be useful in holding the attention of this active dog, who can be distracted by the smell of a potential trail.
Her sociable side makes her a poor guardian.
Training a Drever
An experienced handler should have no problem training this dog, but the first time owner may have a tough time. Training must be started early, to prevent the puppy becoming too headstrong.
Drever: Lifestyle
In a word, no. Despite being quite small, a Drever still needs lots of exercise. She’s designed for countryside living.
This dog needs about an hour of exercise every day. This must include plenty of time off the leash. She needs plenty of physical and mental stimulation, and lots of tracking-type activities.
Once they’ve been exercised, the Drever can become quite docile. This makes her a much better travel companion during long car journeys. If you’re thinking about taking her abroad, speak to the airline company directly. The Drever might be a bit too big for some commercial flights.
Breed compatibility Drever
This dog was bred to track and chase furry creatures. She has a strong instinctual prey drive and a high work ethic. It’s best to keep her away from cats.
The Drever loves being around other dogs. It’s also really important for her short and long term mental health. Pack dogs need to be around other dogs.
Although the Drever is a calm, friendly dog, she is not especially playful. She doesn’t like being the centre of attention. She much prefers her own space, and children should respect this.
A Drever is a good match for elderly dog owners. Her exercise needs are not too demanding and her relaxed nature is well suited to those who are enjoying their golden years.
First time dog owners should explore other options. These dogs have very specific needs which the novice handler will struggle to meet.
Drever: Purchase price
We do not have enough data to set an average price. Looking after a dog of this size typically costs between £70 to £100 a month, including food, medical/insurance, and incidental expenses.
Drever: Grooming
A Drever requires very little grooming. A quick weekly brush will keep her coat in good shape.
Drever: Health
A well-bred and very healthy working dog with an average life expectancy of 13 years.
The Drever is small, sturdy dog, who is mentally and physically tough. However, it is important to inspect her after she returns from hunting, as she can get injured.
The Drever has a short, coarse coat. She has no difficulties keeping herself cool during warmer times of the year, although care should be taken during heat waves.
She can live both indoors and outdoors because she is very resistant to the weather - even snow!
Active working dogs tend to stay lean and healthy. Any sudden weight-gain will be related to overfeeding, a lack of exercise, or certain health issues.
- Ear infections
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Injuries related to hunting
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