Updated June 13, 2026

Breed guide

Smålandsstövare

Life with a Smålandsstövare often means leash walks with plenty of sniffing, patient recall practice, and a secure plan for that busy nose.

Adult sizeMedium

Adult heightMales: 46-54 cm; Females: 42-50 cm

Working roleHare and fox scent hound

CoatMedium-length harsh close coat with soft dense undercoat

TemperamentCalm, friendly, faithful, and keen

Recognized byFCI

Energy

Plan for real daily work with a Smålandsstövare: walks, play, training, or a job that uses that busy body.

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Grooming

Smålandsstövare is usually simple to groom, though nails, ears, teeth, and skin still matter.

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Family fit

Smålandsstövare can be a joyful family dog when adults make time for training, exercise, and calm supervision.

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Cuddly

Smålandsstövare can be affectionate while still needing personal space and a predictable home rhythm.

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Training ease

Smålandsstövare can learn plenty, but short sessions and patience matter more than pressure.

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First-time fit

Smålandsstövare may feel smoother for someone comfortable with dog training, structure, and patient follow-through.

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Apartment fit

Smålandsstövare is usually happier with more room, more routine, and fewer close-neighbor surprises.

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Kid-friendly

Smålandsstövare can do well with kids when play is supervised and the dog gets a quiet escape.

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Shedding

Smålandsstövare sheds some, so plan on regular brushing even if the coat is not difficult.

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Watchdog

Smålandsstövare is usually more companion than guard dog, though individuals still vary.

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Food needs

Measured meals help a Smålandsstövare stay lean, which makes exercise and joints easier on the dog.

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Intelligence

Smålandsstövare often learns best when the lesson connects to the dog's real instincts and daily routine.

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Affection

Smålandsstövare often shows affection through trust, routine, and choosing to stay nearby.

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Great fit for

Active homes that understand scent hounds.
Owners who can provide tracking games, mileage, and secure handling.
People who want a real working hound, not a low-effort pet.

Think twice if

Scent drive makes off-leash freedom risky.
Voice and boredom can be hard in close-neighbor housing.
This breed needs more work than a casual walk routine.

Personality

With a Smålandsstövare, the nose, eyes, or old working instincts may speak first outdoors. A secure leash, patient training, and a sense of humor help.

Exercise

Plan on daily exercise and a little brain work. Smålandsstövare is much easier to live with after the body and mind have both had something useful to do.

Training

Keep lessons short and practical. Smålandsstövare may not love drilling the same thing over and over, but clear rewards and patience go a long way.

Grooming

Routine brushing, nail trims, dental care, and ear checks are enough for most Smålandsstövare homes.

Food

Measured meals matter. Keeping a Smålandsstövare lean protects joints, stamina, and everyday comfort.

Health

Use a careful breeder or rescue, a sensible vet plan, and steady weight control. Most concerns are easier to manage when you catch changes early.

Useful gear

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Long tracking line

Great for a Smålandsstövare that wants to follow its nose while you keep the adventure safely attached.

Secure hound harness

A smart walking setup for a Smålandsstövare with forward drive. It gives you more control without making walks feel harsh.

Dog ear cleaner

Handy for a Smålandsstövare, especially if those ears trap moisture or dirt after walks and play.