Hamiltonstovare
Description
Ever wondered what makes the Hamiltonstovare stand out? This Swedish breed, also called the Hamilton Hound, was crafted in the early 1900s by Count Adolf Patrick Hamilton to be a versatile scent hound. It’s a mix of Harrier, English Foxhound, and native Swedish hounds, designed to track scents across the rugged countryside. Their tri-colored coat—white with black patches and tan markings—is as striking as their keen nose. They’re friendly dogs with a calm temperament, perfect for families who can keep up with their active nature. They adore following scents, so expect them to get distracted on walks if not properly trained. They usually get along well with kids and larger pets but might chase smaller animals due to their strong prey drive. Curious about a dog that’s both a hunting partner and a loving companion? The Hamiltonstovare fits that bill nicely.
Grooming
The Hamiltonstovare sports a smooth, short coat that’s easy to maintain. Shedding is light to moderate, so weekly brushing with a rubber curry or bristle brush keeps loose hairs at bay and the coat shiny. Bathing every 4 to 8 weeks works well—don’t overdo it or you risk drying out their skin. Nails should be trimmed every 2 to 4 weeks, and ears checked monthly to prevent buildup. Since their coat is tri-colored with white areas, watch for dirt and stains, especially around the paws and chest. A quick wipe after outdoor play helps keep them looking fresh. - Brush weekly with rubber curry or bristle brush - Bathe every 4–8 weeks - Trim nails every 2–4 weeks - Clean ears monthly - Spot clean white areas as needed Pro tip: Use a damp cloth to gently clean white fur after muddy walks to avoid stubborn stains.
Learn the Smooth routine:
→ Complete Smooth Grooming Guide
Walking
How much exercise does a Hamiltonstovare need? Plan on about 100 minutes daily, split into two sessions. These dogs love to sniff and explore, so walks should include some time for scent tracking and mental engagement. A leash is a must because their strong nose can lead them off on a chase. A good routine might be a 45-minute morning walk with some off-leash scent games in a secure area, followed by a 55-minute evening stroll around the neighborhood. This keeps them physically tired and mentally satisfied. Example routine: - Morning: 45 minutes including scent games in a fenced park - Evening: 55 minutes of steady walking and social sniffing This breed thrives on consistent, engaging walks that challenge their tracking instincts while providing ample movement.
Boarding
When boarding a Hamiltonstovare, a 42 to 48-inch crate is ideal to give them enough room to stretch comfortably. They’re active and curious, so staff should provide two active play sessions daily, plus scent or brain games to keep their minds sharp. Avoid small-animal toys since their prey drive is strong; instead, use durable toys that encourage problem-solving. Secure fencing is essential in play areas to prevent escapes during scent-driven adventures. Staff should be aware that these dogs can be vocal, so patience and positive reinforcement help manage barking. Socialization with other dogs should be monitored carefully, especially around smaller pets. Boarding facilities that offer plenty of mental and physical stimulation will keep a Hamiltonstovare happy and calm while away from home.