Smålandsstövare
Also known as Chien Courant du Småland · Sabueso de Småland
Sweden, Scent hounds
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 46–54 cm
- Weight
- 15–20 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Calm
- Loyal
- Affectionate
- Determined
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Smålandsstövare
The Smålandsstövare comes from the Småland region of southern Sweden, where it was developed to hunt hare and fox. It is a compact, medium-sized hound with a short, dense black and tan coat. It is often seen with a naturally short or bobbed tail.
Temperament
Calm, loyal and affectionate, with a determined hunting nature. Good voice and independent. Patience and consistency from the owner usually bring out the best in this type of dog.
Exercise
Give it generous daily exercise with opportunities to track a scent, in places where it cannot slip away. Hunting-bred hounds like it tire slowly and get restless if kept indoors all day.
Grooming
A weekly brush keeps the short, dense coat in order.
Care & wellbeing
Check ears and keep lean. Secure fencing is essential.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 17.5 kg adult- Water
- 700 ml–1.1 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 960 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Smålandsstövare
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A Swedish scent hound named after the province of Smaland, developed from older local hounds. Used to hunt hare and fox, it has a calm nature at home and a strong hunting drive outdoors.
Health
The breed can be prone to
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scores
- Ear checks
Not every Smålandsstövare is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Smålandsstövare right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Smålandsstövare get?
Adult Smålandsstövares typically stand about 46–54 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 15–20 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Smålandsstövares live?
Typically 12–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Smålandsstövare need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Smålandsstövare need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Smålandsstövares easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Smålandsstövares shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Smålandsstövares good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Smålandsstövare live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Smålandsstövares have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections. Not every Smålandsstövare is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Sweden
- Type
- Scent hounds
- Internationally recognised
- 1955