Drever
Description
The Drever is a compact hunting dog from Sweden, recognized for its long body and short legs. This breed was developed in the early 1900s by blending several hunting breeds, including the Westphalian Dachsbracke. Drevers excel at tracking small game like hare and fox, thanks to their keen nose and steady pace. They weigh between 35 and 40 pounds, making them sturdy but manageable for various living situations. Known for their calm and friendly nature, Drevers adapt well to family life and coexist peacefully with children and other pets. They tend to be quiet but will alert their owners to strangers, serving as effective watchdogs. Although they have a stubborn streak rooted in their hunting background, consistent training helps them thrive both as companions and working dogs.
Grooming
The Drever sports a short double coat that sheds heavily during spring and fall. Regular brushing twice a week keeps their coat healthy, but during shedding seasons, daily grooming is necessary to manage loose undercoat. Use an undercoat rake on dense areas to remove dead hair effectively. Bathing every 6 to 8 weeks is sufficient, but ensure the coat dries thoroughly to prevent skin issues. Avoid shaving the coat, as it protects the dog from weather extremes. - Brush twice weekly; daily in shedding seasons - Use undercoat rake on thick patches - Bathe every 6–8 weeks, dry completely - Avoid shaving to protect coat integrity - Monitor white markings for dirt stains Pro tip: Schedule a professional de-shedding treatment every 6 to 8 weeks to maintain coat health and reduce loose hair around the home.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
Drevers require about 65 minutes of walking daily, typically managed in a single session. Their hunting heritage means they enjoy sniffing and exploring at a steady pace rather than sprinting. A consistent walk routine helps satisfy their tracking instincts and keeps them mentally engaged. Moderate barking during walks is common, especially if they detect unfamiliar scents or animals. Example routine: Morning: 10-minute leash walk to stretch legs Evening: 55-minute exploratory walk with scent work Short and focused walks won’t meet their needs. Long, engaging walks are best.
Boarding
When boarding a Drever, provide a crate sized between 36 and 42 inches to accommodate their long body comfortably. Their calm demeanor means they benefit from daily exercise paired with quiet decompression time to reduce stress. Avoid toys designed for small animals, as their hunting instincts might trigger unwanted behaviors. Secure fencing is essential to prevent escapes during outdoor play. Staff should introduce themselves slowly and maintain a predictable routine to help the Drever feel secure. Enrichment activities that simulate tracking or scent games can keep them mentally stimulated. This breed’s moderate barking means staff should be prepared to manage vocalizations without overreacting. Overall, a calm, structured environment suits the Drever best during boarding stays.