Gotland Hound
Description
Ever heard of the Gotland Hound? This Swedish breed is a rare gem, originally bred on the island of Gotland for tracking hares. It’s a medium-sized dog, weighing between 33 and 51 pounds, with a sleek, short coat that shines in yellow or yellowish red, often marked with white. The Gotland Hound isn’t just about looks; it has a calm and friendly nature that makes it a wonderful family companion. They’re great with kids and usually get along well with other dogs, which is a big plus for multi-pet households. What makes this breed stand out? Their scent-tracking skills are impressive, thanks to a history tied to local hunting dogs and imported English Harriers. While they have a moderate barking level, they’re not overly noisy. This breed needs mental and physical stimulation to stay happy, so they’re best for owners who can keep them engaged. Gotland Hounds have a gentle temperament, often described as kind-hearted, making them a loyal and affectionate friend at home.
Grooming
Gotland Hounds have a glossy, short coat that’s easy to maintain. You won’t need to spend hours grooming, but regular care keeps them looking sharp. Brush their coat weekly using a rubber curry or bristle brush to remove loose hair and keep the skin healthy. Bathing every 4 to 8 weeks is enough—don’t overdo it, as too much bathing can dry out their skin. Their nails should be trimmed every 2 to 4 weeks, and ears checked monthly to prevent buildup. Because their coat colors range from yellow to yellowish red with white markings, you might notice some dirt or staining on the lighter areas, especially around the paws or chest. Wiping these spots with a damp cloth can keep them clean between baths. • Brush weekly with rubber curry or bristle brush • Bathe every 4–8 weeks, avoid over-bathing • Trim nails every 2–4 weeks • Check ears monthly • Spot-clean white markings as needed Pro tip: Use a damp microfiber cloth to gently wipe white markings after outdoor play to keep them bright without frequent baths.
Learn the Glossy routine:
→ Complete Glossy Grooming Guide
Walking
How much exercise does a Gotland Hound need? About 65 minutes daily, usually in one solid session. This breed enjoys a good walk where they can sniff and explore, tapping into their tracking instincts. A single, well-paced walk helps satisfy their moderate activity needs and keeps them mentally sharp. If you have time, add some scent games or light fetch afterward to keep their mind busy. Example routine: Start with a 10-minute warm-up walk around the block, then spend 45 minutes on a trail or park where your dog can sniff freely. Finish with 10 minutes of gentle play or obedience training to wind down. This routine balances physical exercise with mental stimulation, which Gotland Hounds thrive on.
Boarding
When boarding a Gotland Hound, a crate size of 42 to 48 inches is ideal to give them enough room to stretch comfortably. These dogs enjoy calm decompression time after exercise, so daily walks or play sessions are essential to keep them relaxed and happy. They’re not overly boisterous but do appreciate gentle enrichment activities like scent puzzles or chew toys. Staff should note that Gotland Hounds have a moderate barking level and may alert to new sounds but aren’t prone to excessive noise. They get along well with other dogs, so supervised group play can be a good way to burn energy. Providing a quiet, cozy space with familiar bedding helps them feel secure during their stay. Regular interaction and mental challenges will keep them content and reduce stress while boarding.