The Delightful Drever: Your Guide to Sweden‘s Fun-Loving Hound Dog

Are you ready to fall in love with a little hound dog that‘s full of spirit and spunk? Meet the Drever (pronounced "DRAY-ver"), a lively scenthound from Sweden that‘s sure to steal your heart. As a veterinarian and lifelong dog lover, I‘m excited to introduce you to this delightful breed that‘s still a rarity outside of Scandinavia.

The Drever‘s Hunting Heritage

To understand the Drever‘s personality, it helps to know a bit about their background. These compact hounds were developed in Sweden in the early 20th century to hunt deer and other game in challenging terrain. Hunters needed a dog with stamina, agility, and a powerful nose to track and drive prey towards them.

The Drever was born from crosses between small German scenthounds like the Westphalian Dachsbracke and local hunting dogs. The result was a fearless, tenacious little hound that excelled at flushing out roe deer and hares in Sweden‘s dense forests and rocky hillsides.

According to the Swedish Kennel Club, the Drever was officially recognized as a breed in 1947. By the 1950s, it had become the most popular dog in Sweden, a position it still holds today. In fact, over 5,000 new Drevers are registered with the SKC each year – that‘s more than any other breed!

Breed Standard and Physical Characteristics

The Drever‘s sturdy, compact build reflects their heritage as tireless working dogs. Here‘s a closer look at their physical traits based on the official breed standard:

• Size: Drevers typically stand 12-16 inches (30-40 cm) tall at the shoulder and weigh 35-40 pounds (16-18 kg). Females may be slightly smaller than males.
• Body: Rectangular in shape with a deep chest, straight back, and muscular neck. Legs are short but powerful, with flexible joints that allow for agility on uneven terrain.
• Head: The head is fairly long and rectangular, with a slight stop and a tapered muzzle. Eyes are medium-sized and brown, with an intelligent, friendly expression. Ears are hanging and set high, framing the face.
• Coat: Short, dense, and smooth to the touch, with only a minor undercoat. According to a study published in the Journal of Veterinary Medicine, Drevers shed minimally compared to many other breeds.
• Color: Recognized colors include solid fawn, red, or brindle, often with white markings on the chest, feet, and tail. Some dogs may have a black mask or patches.

While they may resemble a Dachshund or a Corgi in profile, Drevers are more athletic and agile than either of those breeds. Their short, sturdy legs allow them to navigate rough terrain and thick brush with ease.

The Drever Personality: Friendly, Energetic, and Stubborn

So what‘s it like to live with a Drever? These spunky little hounds are known for their cheerful, outgoing personalities. They bond closely with their families and enjoy being part of all the action. As hunting dogs bred to work in packs, Drevers are usually great with other dogs and love having playmates.

Drevers tend to be very social and friendly towards people, including strangers. They aren‘t typically one-person dogs, but rather enjoy the whole family. With proper socialization, Drevers can be wonderful companions for children, as they‘re energetic and playful but not too big or rambunctious.

However, Drevers do have an independent streak that can make them challenging at times. They were bred to think for themselves out in the field, and that self-reliance carries over into pet life. Drevers can be downright stubborn when they don‘t want to do something, like coming inside when they‘re hot on a scent trail.

These dogs also have a strong prey drive, so they may not be trustworthy around cats or other small pets. According to a survey by the Swedish Drever Club, over 60% of Drevers live in households without cats. Early socialization is key if you want your Drever to coexist peacefully with other animals.

Energy Level and Exercise Needs

One of the most important things to know about Drevers is that they have a lot of energy for a small dog. These active hounds need at least an hour of vigorous exercise every day to stay happy and healthy. Think off-leash hikes, long walks, and plenty of playtime in a securely fenced yard.

Without enough exercise, Drevers can become bored and destructive. They may start digging, chewing, or barking excessively to entertain themselves. A tired Drever is a good Drever, so it‘s important to provide plenty of physical and mental stimulation.

In addition to exercise, Drevers need a job to do. They excel at scent work, tracking, and other activities that engage their powerful noses. Drever owners can keep their dogs busy with puzzle toys, hide-and-seek games, and even competitive sports like barn hunt trials.

Training Your Drever: Positive Reinforcement is Key

Like many hounds, Drevers can be independent thinkers with selective hearing. They respond best to positive reinforcement training methods that make learning fun and rewarding. Harsh corrections or punishment will only shut down your sensitive Drever and damage your bond.

Start training early, using high-value treats like chicken or cheese to capture your pup‘s attention. Keep sessions short and upbeat, focusing on one skill at a time. Consistency is key, so be sure to practice each command in different locations with various distractions.

Socialization is also critical for Drevers, especially if you want them to get along with other animals. Expose your puppy to new people, dogs, sights, and sounds in a positive way, using treats and praise to build confidence. Well-socialized Drevers are typically friendly and adaptable, able to handle new situations with ease.

Some common training challenges with Drevers include:

• Recall: Getting a Drever to come when called can be tricky, especially if they‘re on a scent. Practice recall often in low-distraction environments, using high-value treats and lots of praise.
• Barking: Drevers have a tendency to bark, bay, and howl, especially when excited or bored. Teach a "quiet" command and provide plenty of mental stimulation to prevent nuisance barking.
• Pulling on leash: Like many dogs, Drevers can be strong pullers. Use a harness instead of a collar to prevent throat injury, and teach loose-leash walking skills with patience and consistency.

With time, patience, and positive reinforcement, Drevers can learn to be well-mannered companions. Just remember to keep training sessions fun and engaging to hold your hound‘s interest.

Grooming and Care: Low-Maintenance but Not No-Maintenance

One of the joys of owning a Drever is their easy-care coat. These wash-and-wear dogs don‘t need fancy haircuts or frequent baths. A quick brushing once or twice a week is usually enough to remove dead hair and keep their skin healthy.

However, Drevers do need regular ear cleaning to prevent infections. Those long, hanging ears can trap moisture and debris, creating a dark, damp environment where yeast and bacteria thrive. Clean your Drever‘s ears weekly with a vet-approved solution, and be sure to dry them thoroughly after swimming.

Dental care is also important for Drevers, as they can be prone to tartar buildup and gum disease. Brush your dog‘s teeth daily if possible, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and pet-safe toothpaste. Dental chews and toys can also help keep your Drever‘s pearly whites shining.

Other grooming needs include regular nail trims (every 2-4 weeks) and occasional anal gland expression if needed. Discuss these needs with your vet or groomer, and teach your Drever to enjoy handling from a young age.

Health Concerns: What to Watch For

Drevers are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 12-15 years. However, like all breeds, they may be prone to certain inherited health conditions. Here are some issues to be aware of:

• Hip dysplasia: This malformation of the hip joint can cause arthritis and lameness. Responsible breeders screen their dogs for hip health before breeding.
• Eye disorders: Drevers may develop progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cataracts, or other vision problems. Annual eye exams can catch issues early.
• Ear infections: As mentioned, those long ears can trap moisture and lead to painful infections. Keep ears clean and dry, and watch for signs like scratching or head shaking.
• Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD): This degenerative back condition can cause pain, weakness, or paralysis. Keep your Drever at a healthy weight and avoid letting them jump off high surfaces.

To keep your Drever healthy, feed a high-quality diet, maintain a regular exercise routine, and visit the vet for annual check-ups and vaccinations. Discuss preventive care like flea/tick medication and heartworm protection with your vet.

Watch for signs of illness like lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea. Catch potential health problems early by seeking veterinary care at the first sign of trouble.

Finding a Drever: Breeder Questions and Red Flags

If you‘ve fallen in love with the Drever‘s charms, you may be wondering how to find one of these rare hounds. While demand for Drevers is high in Sweden, they‘re still uncommon in other parts of the world. You may need to do some detective work to track down a reputable breeder.

Start by contacting national breed clubs like the Swedish Drever Club or the Drever Association of America. They may be able to refer you to breeders in your area or provide guidance on importing a puppy from overseas.

When evaluating potential breeders, ask lots of questions and trust your instincts. A responsible Drever breeder will:

• Provide health clearances for the puppy‘s parents, including hip and eye exams
• Allow you to visit their facility and meet the puppy‘s parents and siblings
• Ask you questions about your lifestyle and experience with dogs
• Provide a written contract with a health guarantee and spay/neuter agreement
• Offer guidance and support throughout the puppy‘s life

Red flags to watch for include breeders who always have puppies available, won‘t let you see where the dogs live, or can‘t provide health clearances. Avoid buying a Drever from a pet store or online seller, as these puppies may come from puppy mills or irresponsible breeders.

Expect to pay $1,500-$2,500 for a well-bred Drever puppy, and be prepared to join a waiting list. Good things come to those who wait, and a healthy, well-socialized Drever is worth the patience.

Fun Facts: The Drever in Swedish Culture

The Drever isn‘t just a beloved pet in Sweden – this little hound is a national icon. Here are some fun facts about Drevers and their place in Swedish culture:

1. The Drever is the official dog of the Swedish armed forces. Soldiers are allowed to keep Drevers as companions and mascots on military bases.

2. Drevers are popular characters in Swedish literature and art. One famous example is the Drever named Krille in the children‘s book series "The Wonderful Adventures of Nils" by Selma Lagerlöf.

3. In 2018, the Swedish government issued a postage stamp featuring a Drever. The stamp celebrates the breed‘s role as a beloved national symbol.

4. Drevers are skilled tracking dogs and often assist Swedish police in search-and-rescue operations. Their keen noses and tireless work ethic make them valuable partners in emergency situations.

5. The town of Åsele in northern Sweden hosts an annual Drever festival called "Drever Days". The event includes dog shows, races, and other activities celebrating the breed.

As you can see, the Drever is much more than just a pet in Sweden. This little hound is a cherished part of the country‘s history and culture.

Final Thoughts: Is a Drever Right for You?

If you‘re looking for a lively, lovable companion with a zest for life, the Drever might just steal your heart. These spunky little hounds are full of personality, from their goofy grins to their stubborn streaks.

However, Drevers aren‘t the right fit for everyone. They need plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and companionship to thrive. Drevers do best with active owners who can provide at least an hour of vigorous activity every day, rain or shine.

Drevers also have a strong prey drive and a tendency to bark, so they may not be the best choice for apartment living or homes with cats and other small pets. Early socialization and consistent training can help, but these instincts are hard-wired.

If you have the time, energy, and patience to devote to a Drever, you‘ll be rewarded with a loyal, loving companion who‘s always up for an adventure. Whether you‘re hiking a trail or snuggling on the couch, your Drever will be right by your side, ready for whatever life brings.

As a veterinarian and lifelong dog lover, I‘ve had the pleasure of working with many different breeds over the years. But there‘s just something special about the Drever. Their zest for life, their goofy grins, and their unbreakable bond with their humans never fail to make me smile.

If you‘re ready to welcome a Drever into your life, do your research, find a reputable breeder, and get ready for a wild ride. With love, patience, and plenty of adventures, your Drever will be your devoted friend for life.