The French Spaniel

The French Spaniel is one of the largest of all spaniel breeds. A friendly and bright pointing/retrieving spaniel, he possesses a tender heart and even temperament. He is calm and compliant in the house, tending to be fairly submissive in nature, not prone to aggression in any form. When out hunting, he is athletic and enthusiastic – he loves to do what he was originally bred for! This medium-sized breed also gets along well with other dogs and children – playing gently and with a lot of patience. He may or may not get along with cats and almost definitely shouldn’t be trusted around pocket pets or birds.

The French Spaniel tends to be easy to train and therefore makes a good dog for first-time owners. He enjoys learning and pleasing his owners. It should be noted that he is a “soft breed” that will shut down if he feels the methods are too rough. Training a sensitive breed means that owners/trainers may need to be slightly more patient, but once the dog learns a command, he is unlikely to forget. Also take note that he can be slow to mature and may also take a little longer to housebreak than some other breeds. This is a dog that needs a job to do, so after initial obedience training has been taught, it’s highly recommended to get your French Spaniel into a sport such as tracking, hunt tests and/or agility!

As with most hunting breeds, the French Spaniel doesn’t do well living in an apartment. He prefers a home with plenty of access to the outdoors (particularly during cooler weather) so that he might stretch his legs and run! This affectionate dog does need plenty of time spent with his family as well, so he shouldn’t be kept outside all day unless his owners are frequent outdoorsy-people themselves! Furthermore, because of his sociable nature, he can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for too long. He enjoys being around humans both known and new. It comes as no surprise that this is not a guard dog by any means, and his quiet nature makes him spotty at watchdog duties as well. This said, if he is convinced a stranger may be up to no good, he is much more apt to bark.

French Spaniels are healthy dogs that aren’t commonly diagnosed with congenital health issues. They do require regular exercise, however – ideally at least an hour each day. The breed is fairly active and definitely not a couch potato canine. A walk around the block probably won’t cut it – this agile athlete needs more vigorous outings such as jogging, swimming or hiking! Playing fetch with a ball and/or taking the dog out to hunt are also fun, breed-specific activities that will be supremely appreciated! Without enough exercise he can become destructive, especially in the form of chewing and digging.

The liver and white coat of the French Spaniel doesn’t shed too frequently, however does require brushing a couple times a week. Ears must be cleaned weekly and nails should be clipped every week or two. Keeping up with a healthy dental routine (brushing the teeth) will help curtail future vet costs and help the dog’s breath! Baths can be given as often as needed, taking care not to bathe too frequently unless using a gentle shampoo. Perhaps one of the more time-consuming tasks is that of pulling burrs and other “bits of nature” out of the coat, particularly if the dog has been hunting in dense cover. Aside from this, it isn’t complicated to keep the dog groomed as long as the owner set aside time regularly to do so.

Photo By Canarian

 

The Hanoverian Scenthound

The Hanoverian Scenthound has an independent personality and tends to have a relaxed attitude about life. A faithful companion and steady hunting dog, he will become engaged when allowed to do what he was meant to do – hunt. This German breed is particularly adept at tracking and can do this task for hours on end if needed. The original purpose was to track and locate wounded game. If he is never given the opportunity to track or hunt in some fashion he may develop temperament issues or even neurotic behaviors. Hanoverians are not the best dogs for first-time dog owners.

Hanoverian Scenthounds do require daily exercise although not an overly excessive amount. The smaller the living space is, the more they will need to be given walks, jogs or similar activities. Those that aren’t given enough can become excessive barkers and overly destructive dogs – so exercise is definitely non-negotiable. The breed does best with people who are active themselves and want to take the dog with them on weekend hikes and excursions, in addition to daily walks. They really don’t make the best apartment dogs. As they also require regular mental exercise, providing them with opportunities to hunt and/or track will go a long way towards meeting the needs of the Hanoverian.

Hanoverians are a low-shedding breed that require very little coat care beyond the occasional bath and semi-regular quick brush-out. Using a grooming mitt or similar tool will stimulate new hair growth while pulling out dead hair, and really make the characteristic red or brindle coat shine! Beyond nail care and dental care, the dog also needs his ears checked and cleaned regularly as hanging ears are more prone to infection. Other than this, the dog is considered “wash and wear” (very easy to groom).

When it comes to training, the Hanoverian can be on the more difficult side because of his independent nature. Furthermore the dog likely won’t listen to an owner that is wishy-washy and unable to provide structure or enforce overall house rules. The breed pairs best with those who are able to take charge and establish their leadership position. It’s also important to note that this is a slow-maturing breed that may take a few years to fully come into their own. This is not to say that the dog can’t be trained until they are three years old (waiting that long will cause problems, to say the least), but it does mean that one must be patient and persistent.

Hanoverian Scenthounds are medium-sized dogs in height, but powerful and sturdy. When playing or overly excited, they have the propensity to bowl over small children (or even delicate adults) so they are not really recommended for those with toddlers. Because of their prey drive they are also not a great match for those who have cats or other small animals. They do tend to get along well with other dogs, however. With multiple people in a home, they will be friendly toward everyone but will choose one person in particular with whom they will bond the closest. With strangers they can be aloof and discerning. They also have a protective instinct and must be extensively socialized in puppyhood so that the instinct doesn’t morph into overly fearful or aggressive behavior.

Photo (Hannoverscher Schweisshund, Charlie, selbst fotographiert), CC BY-SA 3.0

 

The Transylvanian Hound

The Transylvanian Hound is a cheerful, good-natured breed around people, yet gutsy and spirited when it comes to hunting. He can be strong-minded when he catches the scent of a prey animal. This Hungarian scenthound has a playful side and enjoys being around the family, yet he can become a decent guard dog if danger arises (he doesn’t go looking for trouble but will show his brave side if necessary). Due to his adaptable nature, he can be at home living in a large home or even an apartment if given enough exercise (and he does need a LOT of exercise – at least an hour a day, and more if living in a small space without a yard).

The Transylvanian is a tough breed, capable of living in a variety of temperatures and terrains. Having somewhat of a territorial nature, a Transylvanian who spends a lot of time outside is more likely to bark at strangers who wander by unless/until he gets to know that person. Keep in mind, however, that this pack dog is much happier living with people than spending his life in solitude. He is more of a hunting breed than a sentry, and becomes a very loyal companion when allowed to become part of the family!

At home, the Transylvanian Hound is affectionate and easy-going and gets along with children, other dogs, and even cats. This breed was more commonly used to sniff out and then “drive” game toward the hunter rather than kill, so they don’t have the same kill drive as many other hounds. Another difference that sets them apart from other scenthounds – they don’t tend to howl and are generally fairly quiet, especially once they have learned the regular routine of the household.

The Transylvanian is an intelligent dog who is adept at problem-solving. An independent thinker, he is more likely to figure out how to get what he wants than to follow direct orders. Obedience training must involve plenty of motivation and care must be taken so he doesn’t get bored. This breed is also likely to disregard commands in lieu of following an interesting scent – so unless/until the dog has had extensive off-leash training he must be kept on leash at all times! Owners should have plenty of patience when it comes to training, as this is a stubborn breed.

The Braque Francais Pyrenean

The Braque Francais Pyrenean (also known as the Small French Pointer) is a clever and outgoing breed that is eager to please. The smaller of the two Braque Francais breeds, this individual is medium sized while his close cousin is a larger dog. While he may also look similar to the German Shorthaired Pointer, he is actually the predecessor of not only that breed, but all modern shorthaired pointing breeds.

The Francais Pyrenean isn’t just a pointing dog, but also can retrieve both on land and in water. He also has a great nose for tracking and does particularly well hunting in any type of weather (although prefers hot weather over the extreme cold). He is quicker than his larger French counterpart, and very agile. This is an enthusiastic hunter that can easily live in the home as well, provided he is given exercise. Homes with fenced yards where the dog can explore and play (when not walking or hunting) are definitely recommended for these active dogs.

The Braque Francais Pyrenean tends to be amiable in nature, with a temperament that often leans toward submissiveness. He is soft and gentle toward people, including children. This, combined with his easy grooming requirements and low-shedding coat, makes him great for first-time dog owners…. that is, as long as they are prepared to spend a lot of time exercising the dog! Perhaps the most demanding aspect of Pyrenean ownership is their high energy and large need for exercise. When their energy is expended each day, they are calm and easy to live with in the house.

The Francais Pyrenean takes very well to training, often learning quickly, although harsh methods should never be used. This soft dog can more easily shut down than other breeds, so make sure to keep training fun and enthusiastic! Because the breed can suffer from separation anxiety, it is recommended to get him used to being alone for periods of time while he’s still a puppy. While he shouldn’t be left alone for long periods on a regular basis, it is important to expose him to alone-time (in a crate) so he can see it’s not the end of the world. In terms of training, while the breed is still rare here in the United States, he can occasionally be seen competing in obedience, rally and agility. These dog sports are great fits for this people-pleasing pointer!

The Braque Francais Pyrenean usually has no problem getting along with other dogs. Because of his hunting instincts, he might not make the best companion for people with pocket pets that roam the house, however. Free-roaming birds in the living room might be too tempting for this pointing breed. Cats may or may not be an issue, depending upon the individual dog (and cat). When it comes to humans, his jovial and social nature means that he loves all people and doesn’t make the best watchdog – this breed isn’t even a big barker, provided his needs are met. He’s a lover and not a fighter!

Photo By Pleple2000

 

The Estrela Mountain Dog

The Estrela Mountain Dog is brainy, valiant and vigilant. This imposing-looking molosser breed is a gentle giant with the family (including children), but will stop at nothing to protect his charges. Originally used as a Livestock Guardian Dog, although he still can be used for this purpose today, in leu of a flock he will use his protection abilities for the humans he loves instead. This breed tends toward being dominant and needs the right owner in addition to early training and socialization so as to not become too much to handle. Even well-raised Estrelas are often domineering as well as suspicious of strangers. This said, the breed is extremely loyal, loving and affectionate to those whom he lives with, and will form a particularly close bond with his favorite member of the family.

Estrela Mountain Dogs enjoy spending time with their owners but are not generally demanding dogs. This is not to say that they aren’t without their drawbacks, however. Estrelas, as the alert guardians that they are, have no qualms about using their voices often and freely. This is not a quiet breed, particularly if one lives in an area where there are many sights and sounds to bark at! The breed also requires a very high fence. Once they get out, they will often try to escape repeatedly (having gotten a taste of freedom). It’s best to keep them in the yard from the beginning so as to not start this “game”.

The Estrela can be either longhaired or shorthaired and both coat lengths should be brushed once a week at minimum. With the correct coarse coat texture, they are not particularly difficult to brush or to groom. Like all dogs, nails, teeth and ears must be checked regularly and taken care of. The coat will require baths when it gets dirty – and the bath will help pull out any dead undercoat at the same time.

EMDs can be playful when engaged in exciting endeavors, particularly when they are young. As they grow older they will calm down and be fairly easy to live with. Despite their serene and laid-back energy level, they don’t make good apartment dogs and instead require room to really stretch their legs. Remember – this breed was tasked with safeguarding flocks on huge tracts of land! They evolved to have plenty of endurance and stamina to do this job, and if they are crammed into too small of a living space with nothing to do, can become frustrated and destructive. All this said, they can live in smaller spaces if the owner is willing to walk the dog much more frequently and dedicate plenty of time to giving the dog an enriching life.

The Estrela doesn’t tend to be an expensive breed to care for compared to some breeds, as they eat relatively little for their size and tend to do better on low protein foods. The breed is also fairly healthy (there aren’t any health issues that arise frequently – hip dysplasia is seen occasionally but is not common) and they often live an average of 12 years. Although this large-giant breed may look enormous (and their thick coat makes them appear even larger) they are actually quite agile and hardy. Another plus – unlike similar breeds, the Estrela isn’t prone to excessive drooling.

When it comes to training, The EMD has an independent nature and will take more effort than other breeds. Without the right motivation he prefers exploring and guarding more than performing. The amount of time an owner puts into training (as well as the skill of the owner) equals the performance of the dog. Be prepared to have a sense of humor if venturing into competitive obedience! The breed has a stubborn nature although is actually quite intelligent. It is said that they are so intelligent that they try and convince their owners that they are stupid! Quite a clever ruse for getting out of work….

Estrella Mountain Dogs tend to do well around other dogs as long as they were socialized well. Many prefer to be the only-dogs in the family but will get along with other dog housemates – again, if socialized. They also don’t tend to chase or hurt other animals, with the exception of any animal whom they might see as a threat to their “pack” (humans and family pets). They have a fairly low prey drive so they are often trustworthy with cats.

Photo By Traceywashere at the English Wikipedia

 

The German Spitz

The German Spitz is an energetic and alert little breed that is loyal to his owner. Originally bred as a companions and watchdog, there are between 2-5 sizes of the breed (depending upon which kennel club one is referring to). According to the FCI, the Pomeranian and Keeshond are two members of the German Spitz “family”, although other kennel clubs consider these breeds separate. The American Eskimo Dog is sometimes considered to be a German Spitz as well, depending upon who you talk to. Here in America, all of these breeds are separate, or at least the current bloodlines are distinct from each other.

Despite his small size, the German Spitz is surprisingly sturdy and doesn’t seem to mind increment inclement weather as much as other dogs his size. He also tends to be fairly healthy and long-lived as long as his owners give him what he needs to stay fit. Eye problems and patella luxation are the most common maladies of the breed, although it is in the minority of members. Naturally distrustful of strangers, this breed makes a great watchdog. He does need socialization from early on in order to get along happily with new people.

German Spitz are easy to train for most owners as they are very intelligent. That said, they can be somewhat independent and if bored, may choose to “forget” what was taught. Don’t fall for their games! Use plenty of praise and encouragement but make sure to enforce commands that they already know and are refusing to do. Take note, these little spitz dogs can be a yappy breed and may need training to curtail their vocal nature. They are also prone to loudness (not to mention destructiveness) when they aren’t given enough to do. Therefore training will help these vocal dogs in two ways – by providing a necessary mental job as well as teaching them how to quiet on command.

While he doesn’t require extensive grooming, the German Spitz does need regular brushing a few times a week. This coat will shed about twice a year, during which time dog hair will be everywhere – quite a feat for a small dog! When not in shedding season, the shedding isn’t very bad. Bathing need only be done when he needs it, and the coat should never be shaved as this will change the texture of the hair as well as remove the insulating properties. Double coats protect against the heat as well as the cold, and this is accomplished as long as the dog is regularly brushed out. Yes, they do tend to do better in colder weather but a brushed out (to the skin) German Spitz will be much more comfortable in the heat than one that has been shaved.

The German Spitz is a medium energy dog that requires a medium amount of exercise. Luckily his small size means that a shorter walk will go a longer way toward fulfilling his exercise quota! He also loves to run and explore in fenced areas – just make sure the fence is secure as his curious nature means he may squish through small openings or holes. Mostly, this little spitz just enjoys going out and having adventures with his person. It helps him satisfy his curiosity as well as providing plenty of social interaction with his owner. These dogs crave time spent with their people and as such, should never live in homes where they spend too much time alone.

The German Spitz can live happily with children however it is vital that the kids can be gentle with dogs. Although sturdy for their size, this is still a smaller breed that nonetheless can get hurt by rough handling. They therefore do best in homes where kids are above toddler age and have been taught how to interact nicely. Other than this they are quite adaptable and they can work out in all types of home or apartment settings. Many live with other dogs in the family pack while others live as the sole dog of the household. Either can work, but make sure to socialize him while still a puppy if he is going to be living with another canine. He is more likely to enjoy living with a dog the same size as himself and possessing a gentle demeanor.

The Braque du Bourbonnais

The Braque du Bourbonnais is one of several French pointing breeds, and one of the oldest – he was created in the 15th century. This easy-going, gentle soul has a loving temperament and enjoys being outside with his humans – whether hunting or just taking a casual stroll. Although still considered a rare breed, there are breeders and many fanciers in the United States, most all of them hunters who appreciate his serious nature when it comes to the hunt! This is a thinking breed which can adapt to all sorts of situations while out in the field – virtues that are prized by knowledgeable hunters.

The Bourbonnais loves people (including kids) and doesn’t do well when kept outside or alone in the house all day. He can suffer from extreme separation anxiety when left on his own for long periods of time. Neither does he fare well when kept in an apartment. He tends to get along well with other dogs but this does not mean that a canine companion can take the place of a human! An ideal owner is someone who lives in a home with a large yard, and who is able to spend plenty of time exercising the dog’s body and mind. Being a hunter isn’t a necessity but it is an extra perk! While not an excessively energetic dog, this is still a hunting breed that needs a long walk at least once a day. Once exercised, they are able to be calm members of the family.

The smooth, low-shedding coat of the Bourbonnais makes him very simple to groom. The occasional bath combined with a weekly brush should keep the coat shiny and healthy.  There are two characteristics which make the breed unique and one of them is the unusual ticked coat pattern. This flecking or ticking can be either brown (called wine dregs) or fawn (called peach blossom) and is made up of very small flecks of color on a white background which give him his unique and beautiful pattern. The second characteristic is the short, stubby tail that is almost always natural (although occasionally a dog will be born with a long tail which is usually docked).

The Braque du Bourbonnais is generally very easy to train provided that the trainer uses gentle tactics to teach the dog. He is very sensitive and even empathic to the moods of the people around him, so if you are having a bad day you might want to hold off training until you are able to get your feelings under control! This is not to say that the dog should be coddled – like all dogs, they still need firm yet fair leadership and plenty of consistency. It is said that although this is a “softer” breed to train, they tend to take only a little bit longer than other pointing breeds but can ultimately become more reliable and balanced than many of their cousins.

Braque du Bourbonnais do not make good watchdogs (fairly quiet, they aren’t big on barking) and they especially are not guard dogs! Their love of people – even those whom they’ve never met – is far too big. They may try to give chase to the family cat, however. After all, they are a multi-purpose hunting breed. Raising a puppy around a cat may help the dog accept the animal as part of the family, but the prey drive depends on the individual dog and the line from which he comes from.

Photo CC BY-SA 2.5

 

The Presa Canario

The Presa Canario is one of the most intense of the guarding molosser breeds. Most of the time the breed is cool, composed and self-assured. If a threat appears, this confident and determined beast will take care of it. As such, he is wary of strangers (not fearful, but suspicious) although obedient to his family, including children. This is a strong-minded and very powerful animal (often over 100 pounds) that should only be owned by owners experienced with formidable breeds. In the right home, he is intensely loyal and bonds quite deeply to his owner/s.

Presas can exhibit many dominant behaviors and will try to rule the household if they feel the owner isn’t doing so. As such, obedience training and early socialization is extremely necessary, as well as some sort of job to engage his mind/body frequently! The size of the owner doesn’t matter as long as they are experienced with instilling firm “house rules” and can keep up with regular training on a consistent basis (ideally starting when the dog is still young and small). Not normally an “obedience breed”, while they can be taught a number of things they aren’t the easiest for a novice. This dog is intelligent but can be extremely headstrong.

Many Presa Canarios do not get along with other dogs – either strange canines or household companions. It is possible for some to co-exist with another but there are a number of factors that come into play – the age at which they join the family, the genetics of the dog, the sex of both dogs, the skill of the owner, etc, etc. The breed is also not known to get along well with smaller pets such as cats. When outside, his territorial nature can take over and he may try to maim or kill strange dogs near the property so a tall, secure fence is an absolute must. While not insanely energetic, the athletic Presa does require regular exercise in addition to all the training and care described above. He can live in an apartment in some situations but increased exercise will be necessary, as well as evaluating whether or not other tenants let their dog run off-leash at the complex. For obvious reasons that would not be a good situation.

The Presa was originally bred to do several things: act as a guard dog, a worker of livestock, as a fighting dog and finally as a companion. Because of this, he can be a versatile dog. No matter what, however, he will always have a deep instinct to protect the home and will take this job very seriously. A well-bred Presa will not act aggressively without reason, although poorly-bred and/or raised Presas have the potential to do serious damage – as has happened in the past and resulted in bad press for the breed. Unfortunately because of these “bad eggs”, the breed is on a number of BSL (breed specific legislation) lists and cannot be bought or owned in many parts of the world.

Presa Canarios are calm in the house. They are not a dog to run wildly around the living room for no reason; they are peaceful and observant of their surroundings, including the people in the home. This is a dog that most certainly will notice if something is “off”. This is also a fairly quiet dog who won’t make a big show of barking if someone comes to the door. He may bark a couple of times – a low and powerful sound, but is not excessively loud. Interestingly, in situations where he actually needs to apprehend an intruder it is likely he will do so quietly, without a sound.

Presas do have a number of genetic health issues in the breed. Susceptibility to demodectic mange, eye conditions, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia and other growth-related skeletal disorders have all been reported. Make sure to do your research when looking for a breeder! Responsible breeders do their best to weed out problems although nothing is foolproof when it comes to mother nature. It also wouldn’t be a horrible idea to purchase dog health insurance. Average age of Presas is 10-12.

Photo By Cgpresadog (Talk / contribs)

 

The Carolina Dog

The Carolina Dog is an ancient breed that probably descended from semi-domesticated Asian wolves. This pariah-type breed keeps it’s primitive temperament and attitude – they have never been bred for an actual function and instead came about through natural selection. In fact many individuals can still be found in the wild in several parts of the United States! This said, domesticated individuals can make a good pet in the right situations. The breed is very autonomous and can be reserved with strangers, but will become a faithful and loyal companion to those who he comes to trust. Once a Carolina Dog accepts you, it says much about your character.

Carolinas as pets tend to make good watch dogs, which was probably their early purpose when they hung out around human camps. Extremely suspicious of unfamiliar people entering the property, they will bark to send the alarm. They also tend to survey their properties with keen alertness – especially when outside. When nobody is around, they are quiet and unassuming. Despite their watchdog abilities, this really isn’t an aggressive dog and is more of a sensitive alarm system than a full-on attack dog.

The Carolina Dog has a number of interesting traits, many of them having to do with his primitive nature. First, they have a firmer pack mentality than other breeds. They expect all members of the pack to follow “pack rules” and many require at least one other dog in the family to be truly happy. Second, unlike many other breeds, females go into heat only once a year instead of the usual two – and when a litter is born the sire (father) of the litter will often help his mate care for the puppies. They hunt in packs and signal to each other with body language as they do so. Finally, an interesting yet unusual behavior found in the Carolina – they tend to dig what are called “snout pits” in the sand. Normally dug by females in the fall and winter, these snout pits perfectly fit the dog’s muzzle.

Perhaps surprisingly, the Carolina can be easy to train in “the basics” as he loves to please his owner. This said, like most primitive breeds, if he doesn’t see the point to doing obedience (particularly more advanced stuff and/or sessions that are too long/repetitive/boring), training can be difficult. Treats and food may or may not interest him so an owner might need to find an alternate motivator. Also of note – this intelligent breed does have a prey drive, so be aware of training around heavy distractions such as scampering critters! Make sure you teach initial sessions with little to no distractions until the dog knows the commands before you begin to proof the dog outside when prey animals might be near.

Carolina Dogs are medium sized although there can be a number of different builds, from lean and athletic to fairly stocky. The variation in appearance can be explained by the fact that, up to very recently they were not bred by humans as much as they bred themselves in the wild. They are now recognized by a couple of kennel clubs so breeders have a standard for which they must conform to, although the standard is looser than many other breeds and the stud book is currently open (which means puppies can be registered even if there parents are not). Certain traits that are important to the breed include a narrow, wolf-like face, prick ears and a tail with a fishhook shape at the tip.

Carolinas are not super active dogs and instead have a low-moderate energy level. They do still need regular exercise like all breeds although nothing extreme is required. Their grooming requirements are similarly low. The short smooth coat requires little brushing or bathing, and they even tend to groom themselves like cats to stay clean. Finally, the breed is very healthy on the whole and most don’t require expensive vet visits for genetic health problems. Dogs that were unhealthy usually died quickly in the wild and so selection of the fittest ensured a great gene pool!

Photo By Calabash13

 

The Hamiltonstovare

The Hamiltonstovare is known as a versatile hound that can hunt with the best of them, but come home at the end of the day and be a great pet. That said, the breed is not for just any owner. Prospective buyers should realize that this Swedish scenthound will choose to follow his nose over just about any other option. Furthermore, the breed is not quiet whatsoever (those that love the breed call their distinctive baying “singing”). Do you research to make sure this breed fits your lifestyle!

When it comes to training, the Hamilton can be quite stubborn. They aren’t often seen in high levels of obedience competition since they can be difficult to train. This said, they tend to be quite food motivated and are capable of learning. Since they are agile and athletic, agility might be an avenue to work them in! Other areas that Hamiltons enjoy working are tracking, carting, nosework, dock diving, lure coursing, conformation, weight pull or barn hunt. They especially enjoy jobs in which they can use their bodies, their nose and/or their personalities (they make excellent therapy dogs and some even work as service dogs). Many get bored with the strict routines of competitive obedience, and would much prefer either hunting or the more physical dog sports mentioned above.

The Hamiltonstovare needs, and enjoys, plenty of room to run. As a hunting animal, he was bred to work for long hours and needs plenty of exercise. Make sure that any area he is running in is fully fenced or you may lose your hound once he catches the scent (or sight) of something interesting! (although scenthounds, he can be triggered by sight as well) Although they can be trained to come when called, the vast majority will ignore the command under the great distraction of a prey animal in the vicinity. Frequent training and lots of distraction-proofing can lessen the chances of him ignoring a recall, but many owners aren’t able to commit to the work. It is best just to keep him on leash or in fenced areas, “just in case”. In addition to free running time, he should be given multiple walks a day and/or other types of exercise with his owner.

Hamiltons shed very little,  have little to no odor, and are easy to maintain with barely any grooming required. A “lazy animal” when inside the house, they aren’t hard to take care of – assuming the owner is aware of their quirks. They are long-lived and fairly healthy, often living 13-14 years and sometimes up to 17! As the “cherry on top”, this is a striking and regal breed with a beautiful tricolor coat pattern. Despite their many perks, this medium-sized breed is very rare in America. It can take a while to get a puppy – whether choosing to wait for a litter in America or importing a dog from overseas. The best homes for this breed include people who are active and have at least some experience with scenthounds, understanding their quirks and willing to go the extra mile when it comes to training.

The Hamiltonstovare is a friendly and extroverted dog who rarely has a problem with anybody (except perhaps cats). As might be imagined from his laid-back and friendly temperament, this is not a guard dog! Extremely perceptive and sensitive, they form close bonds with the people in their family and become very devoted. Hamiltons are social creatures that don’t do well when left alone frequently – and can become destructive and loud when this happens! They can do well in homes with children although may be prone to knocking down toddlers when excited. They also get along great with other dogs despite the fact that they weren’t used as pack hunting hounds.

Photo By Sannse