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.
