Smålandsstövare

In the county of Småland was a specific type of hound that was considered an all-round hunting dog. They often had a natural short tail, still a feature in the breed.

Farmers on small homesteads had evolved this scent hound to be used for hunting different game in the area. They could only afford to feed one dog, therefore the dog had to hunt elk, hare, fox, otter and squirrel as well as forest birds. It was also expected to retrieve. Some historians are of the opinion that the breed's interest for birds and squirrel also suggests a heritage from hunting spitzes.

The Swedish Kennel Club recognized the Smålandsstövare in 1921.

Although the breed has a reputation as an all-round hunting dog it's mainly used for hunting hare and fox. 

Appearance and size

The Smålandsstövare is robust with a strong bone structure. Its body is almost square, compact and strong, but never heavy. The tail could be either naturally long or a natural stumpy tail.

The coat is medium long and rather coarse in texture. It is straight, close lying, shiny and black or liver brown with deep, well-defined tan markings. The round markings over the eyes should be clearly defined. Very small white markings on the toes and chest are permissible.

The ideal height in males is 50 cm, with an accepted variation from 46 to 54 cm, the ideal height for females is 46 cm, with a permissible variation from 42 to 50 cm.

Breed registration statistics

Below you can find the registration statistics for the Smålandsstövare in the Nordic countries from 1990 onwards.