Other names:
Petit chien courant suisse, Schweizerischer Niederlaufhund
Lively, alert, bold and confident, the Small Swiss Hound is a classic example of a big dog in a small package. Originally bred for hunting, they have a fantastic sense of smell and are extremely active, holding a significant need for exercise.
They can be stubborn, determined and independent, so definitely need an experienced and firm hand. However, paired with the right owner, they’re loving, affectionate and loyal family pets who love a good cuddle.
The Small Swiss Hound originates from a taller dog called the Swiss Hound and the well-known, super short Basset Hound. They were selectively bred for hunting private areas of land in Switzerland. They’re still used for hunting today and are rarely kept as a companion dog.
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 6 - Scent hounds and related breeds
Section
Section 1 : Scent hounds
Physical characteristics of the Small Swiss Hound
Adult size
Female :
Between 13 and 16 in
Male :
Between 14 and 17 in
Weight
Female :
Between 22 and 44 lb
Male :
Between 22 and 44 lb
Coat colour
The Small Swiss Hound normally has a white coat with tan or orange patches. Different varieties may also be black and tan, or blue and black.
Black
White
Red
Type of coat
This breed boasts an easy to care for, single, smooth coat. They often have slightly longer hair on the back and legs.
Short
Hard
Eye colour
The Small Swiss Hound has very dark brown or black eyes.
Brown
Description
This is a small breed - not in personality, just size! The body is long and rather rectangular looking. They’re short with a medium tail, straight back, broad chest and straight legs.
The Small Swiss Hound has a long head, wide, dark nostrils, oval, expressive eyes and a moderate stop. The ears are super floppy and rather cute, hanging down by the sides of the face.
Good to know
Adolph Hitler himself was once an owner to a Small Swiss Hound.
Temperament
66%
Affectionate
The Small Swiss Hound loves their family and can be extremely affectionate - expect plenty of cuddles! They’re not overly needy, though - they give just the right amount of affection.
66%
Playful
The Small Swiss Hound is known to be a cheerful, fun-loving and playful dog who will happily get involved in family games and play sports.
66%
Calm
Generally, the Schweizerischer Niederlaufhund is gentle and friendly, but they can become bouncy, hyperactive and restless if under-stimulated. Giving them plenty of exercise and consistent training can help to combat these sorts of problems.
66%
Intelligent
The Small Swiss Hound is a smart, intelligent breed which understands things with ease - if it wasn’t for their typical hound stubbornness, they’d be easily trainable.
100%
Hunter
This breed does have a fairly high prey drive and will chase smaller animals such as rabbits. He is agile, enduring, and can work in the most difficult terrain.
33%
Fearful / wary of strangers
This breed is fairly friendly, though won’t necessarily shower strangers with attention at first. After a little time getting to know each other, they can be very warm and affectionate.
66%
Independent
The Schweizerischer Niederlaufhund is known for its ability to hunt independently with minimal direction from its owner. He still needs regular contact with members of his social group to flourish, though.
Behaviour of the Small Swiss Hound
66%
Tolerates solitude
Despite their independent streak, this breed develops strong bonds with their owner. They can learn to spend time alone from time to time, but make sure to provide plenty of toys to keep them busy.
100%
Easy to train / obedience
Sweet and docile, this little dog is very attached to his master and is therefore keen to make him happy: which greatly facilitates his education. The main priorities in training this dog are socialisation, and getting him to walk on the leash without trying to shoot off.
100%
Barking
Barking is a common problem in the Small Swiss Hound, who, as hunters, were bred to bay. Training and providing enough exercise can minimize this problem, but they still have a particularly loud bark.
100%
Tendency to run away
Due to their high prey drive and hunting instincts, the Small Swiss Hound may run away at a moment’s notice. A secure, fenced garden is essential.
