Hamiltonstovare

Breed Origin

The Hamiltonstovare, a breed that originated in Sweden, was specifically bred for hunting purposes. Count Adolf Hamilton, the founder of the Swedish Kennel Club, was instrumental in its development. This breed is the result of crossbreeding German hounds, English foxhounds, and Harriers, all aimed at effectively hunting foxes and hares in diverse weather and terrain conditions. However, it is not designed for tracking larger game like deer. Originally known as the Swedish Hound, the breed was renamed in 1921 to pay tribute to Count Hamilton. While the Hamiltonstovare remains relatively uncommon outside of Sweden, it is slowly gaining popularity in the United States and Canada, largely due to its unique tri-color coat and hound-like personality. The exact timeline of the breed's introduction to the U.S. is still uncertain. In terms of physical characteristics, the Hamiltonstovare bears a resemblance to the English Foxhound but is lighter and shorter at the shoulder. A distinctive feature of this breed is its white blaze, which starts at the muzzle and runs over the head and down the neck. When the Hamiltonstovare first participated in dog shows, its traits had not yet been standardized. However, with the establishment of an official breed standard in the 1930s, the breed's appearance became more uniform, with its tri-color coat and unique blaze emerging as key identifiers. The breed has gained official recognition from the United Kennel Club, the Kennel Club, and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale, and the American Kennel Club has begun to include the Hamiltonstovare in its Foundation Stock Service.

Care Routine

The Hamiltonstovare is quite easy to care for in terms of grooming. To maintain a healthy coat, it’s recommended to brush him at least once a week with either a slicker brush or a natural bristle brush; a hound mitt can also work well. Regular brushing is beneficial in minimizing the amount of loose hair that ends up on carpets, furniture, and clothing. Since the Hamiltonstovare loves to play outdoors, he might develop a doggy smell. However, bathing him too often can cause dry skin, so it’s best to limit baths to once a month using a mild dog shampoo. Nail trimming should be done every two to three weeks. Many hounds tend to prefer a nail grinder over clippers, as the sound of the clippers can startle them. Additionally, it’s crucial to inspect his ears weekly for any dirt or moisture to help prevent infections. Establishing a dental care routine is also vital; his teeth should be brushed weekly with dog-specific toothpaste, and an annual professional cleaning is recommended.

Play & Exercise