The Gotland Hound is a scenthound that has existed for about 200 years and was bred to hunt hare and fox. This Swedish breed is bred solely for hunting and is rarely seen in dog shows. Together with the Smaland Hound (which this hound is highly related to), they are the two oldest Swedish breeds in existence. Once a popular farm dog on the island of Gotland up until the 1950’s, it was recognized at the time by the Swedish Kennel Club. When numbers dwindled (possibly due to politics) they lost their recognition and were only recently re-recognized in their country in 1990, although numbers are still extremely low and they are considered a very rare breed. Fanciers are currently working to keep the breed alive and afloat, as they consider the rich history one that is worth preserving!
Breeders of Gotland Hounds are focused on keeping working ability and temperament while still maintaining a healthy gene pool. With a breed as rare as this one (between 100-120 total for the last several years), there is concern about the gene pool becoming too small. Thankfully there are currently no health issues known in the breed which means that inbreeding isn’t as “dangerous” as it might be if large portions of the population were afflicted with health conditions, but a wider gene pool is always better. There have been some recent crosses with the Hygen Hound, a similar Swedish scenthound, with hopes of widening that gene pool a bit. In addition, members of the parent club are working hard to “advertise” this breed to the public who might be otherwise completely unaware these dogs exist. Fanciers are mindful that in order for the breed to survive, there must be more litters born per year than there currently are.
Gotlands are friendly with people and lively on the hunting field – traits that allow them to excel at the double-duty of companion and hunting dog. Their medium size allows them to remain very functional at both tasks. Furthermore they are also known for their abilities to get along with kids, and possess excellent health and general longevity (average lifespan being 14-15). A talented nose is the cherry on top of this versatile hound’s abilities! In order to reach their full potential in the home, it is essential that they be exercised every single day lest they become frustrated and destructive. Games in a fenced backyard, long walks and/or extended hiking sessions are all good options for fulfilling this need. Also, remember that these hounds were bred to hunt and they all have very strong instincts whether or not their owner formally takes them hunting… they will hunt on their own if they need to!
Gotland Hounds are loyal to their families but can be rather vocal and loud – common traits of scenthound breeds. Prospective owners who have never before owned a scenthound might be surprised by their vocal natures, and may also be unprepared for the extreme amount of physical endurance they possess on walks as well! These traits are valued in hunting hounds but can take a novice owner by surprise. Those whom have never cared for a scenthound may furthermore be surprised by the dogs’ prey drive. Many are not safe around cats or other small animals – whether wild or domesticated. Traits that definitely need to be considered when deciding whether this breed is for them. Fortunately, they are generally very good around other dogs.
Appearance-wise, the Gotland is light in bone and rectangular in body. The coat is smooth, dense and coarse, and always yellow/white in color – in which the yellow is the dominant color. White may appear on the face, under the neck, as a collar, on the chest, belly, legs, tip of tail and on the paws. The ears are relatively short and hang down to the sides of the head, framing dark-brown almond shaped eyes. The back should be flat and strong. They are low-maintenance as far as grooming – needing only a weekly brushing and a once-over to check ears, eyes, teeth, etc. With the right owner they can be a wonderful choice of pet!
