Hamiltonstövare

Other names : Hamilton Hound, Swedish Foxhound

The dog with the gentlemanly name is a lighter and altogether more Scandinavian variation on the English Foxhound. Friendly, charming, and hard-working, as his James-Bond-parody of a breed-name might suggest, this chap is a strong and handsome take on the scenthound, and can be as free-willed as he is sociable. In contrast to his scenthound cousins, the Hamilton Hound has pretty keen hunting eyes in addition to that well-developed nose. If you can handle his often-independent behaviour, you’ll find this chap to be a warm and low-maintenance addition to the household.

Checked by animal care professional

Comment •

Life expectancy	The Hamiltonstövare has a life expectancy of between 11 and 13 years
Temperament	High prey drive
Size	Medium
Adult size	Female Between 19 and 22 in Male Between 21 and 24 in
Adult weight	Female Between 51 and 60 lb Male Between 51 and 60 lb
Coat colour	Black White Brown
Type of coat	Short
Eye colour	Brown
Purchase price	The Hamiltonstövare costs approximately 950£

Good to know

You cannot hunt deer with this dog. Lust for deer hunting has been selectively bred out of the Hamilton Hound.

More details about the Hamiltonstövare

Hamiltonstövare: Origins and history

This Swedish dog was created by, and takes his name from, Count Adolf Patrick Hamilton; it’s only a pity they didn’t call the breed the Count Adolf Patrick Hamilton Hound. The Count stuck together five disparate breeds in the late eighteenth century – the English Foxhound, Harrier, Curlandish Hound, Holsteiner Hound, and Heiderbracke – and this is what he got. The first official Hamilton Hounds were named Pang and Stella and not, sadly, Neil and Christine.

Physical characteristics of the Hamiltonstövare

This veritable child’s drawing of a dog is smartly rectangular in shape but boasts a joyful patchwork of tricolour fur. His muzzle is long and segues elegantly into his arched and modestly-sized head. His ears are long, flappy napkins, his neck and shoulders powerful and no-nonsense. The Hamilton Hound’s chest is deep and his belly barely betrays its straight line, leading back to a tail held aloft and curved like a sabre.

FCI classification of the Hamiltonstövare

Group 6 - Scent hounds and related breeds
Section 1 : Scent hounds

Hamiltonstövare: Characteristics

More or less affectionate

The Hamilton Hound is a warm and affectionate companion.

Moderately playful

This playful dog loves to entertain and to be entertained, and tracking games are good for channeling his energy.

More or less calm

This dog is generally a calm type, but will become more eager outdoors.

Moderate intelligence

He is an intelligent dog, quick to learn and even to become manipulative by acting on his observations.

High prey drive

The Hamilton Hound is a natural hunter and finds the deepest inspiration in the sights and smells of small, fast-moving fluffy animals.

Not fearful of strangers

He is self-assured, and rarely aggressive towards strangers.

Not very independent

Although he is quite autonomous, he still needs regular contact with his social group.

Hamiltonstövare: Behaviour

Can't tolerate being left alone

This breed was created for teamwork, and he will become disruptive if left alone for long periods.

Moderately easy to train

Although he can prove stubborn towards his teacher, the Hamilton Hound is eager to learn and can even progress to be a service dog if given the right start in life.

Tends to be very vocal

More of a crooner than a barker, he may all the same sound his voice off with undesirable frequency if not taught otherwise in his youth.

Has a tendency to run away

With his energy and his industry, this dog will soon make his escape if not carefully fenced in at home.

Can be destructive

The Hamilton Hound can become chewy or diggy if lonely, under-exercised and under-stimulated.

Moderately food motivated

Treats are a useful reward to overcome his stubborn side.

Bad watchdog

He’s not a natural guard and unlikely to defend his master’s property with violence.

Training a Hamiltonstövare

Although he can prove stubborn towards his teacher, the Hamilton Hound is eager to learn and can even progress to be a service dog if given the right start in life.

Hamiltonstövare: Lifestyle

Not very compatible with living in a flat

This dog requires consistent access to stimulation and a chance to stretch his legs, and thus is far better suited to a property with a garden.

Needs a lot of exercise

The Hamilton Hound requires a great deal of daily exercise and will be happy to engage in whatever sports you challenge him with.

Moderately easy to travel with

His medium size and good character allow him to travel with his humans.

Breed compatibility Hamiltonstövare

Not very compatible with cats

The Hamilton Hound will tolerate a cat with whom he is raised, but any other cat should beware his keen, multi-sensory hunting capacity.

Compatible with other dogs

He makes a warm friend of other dogs, especially if he has been socialised from a young age.

Compatible with children

This is one trustworthy and non-aggressive dog, and thus makes a good companion for children of a size to withstand his boisterous playing style.

Not compatible with senior owners

Elderly folk who are ‘Hamilton-curious’ should consider the very high level of exercise he requires every day before they commit to a life with this hound.

Highly recommended for a first-time owner

The Hamilton requires a firm hand from his owners, and dedication to intensive daily exercise. If a dog novice can provide these, there’s no reason why the relationship can’t work.