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Hamiltonstövare
Hound breed from Sweden
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Hamiltonstövare
The Hamiltonstövare is a medium-sized Swedish scent hound, recognized for its tricolor coat and athletic build. Bred for endurance and skill in hunting fox and hare over challenging terrain, this breed is described as friendly, energetic, intelligent, alert, and independent. Its energy and trainability are both rated 4 out of 5, indicating a high-activity dog that is generally responsive to training, though individual variation exists. Grooming needs are low (score 2), but shedding is moderate (score 3). The breed is estimated to weigh 23–34 kg and stand 52–61 cm tall, with a lifespan of 10–14 years. It is moderately suited for homes with children (score 4) and other dogs (score 3), but less ideal for apartment living (score 2).
Quick facts
Hamiltonstövare at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginSweden
Lifespan10–14 years
Male weight23–34 kilogram
Female weight23–34 kilogram
Male height52–61 centimetre
Female height52–61 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Hamiltonstövare was developed in Sweden in the late 19th century by Count Adolf Patrick Hamilton. He aimed to create a dedicated Swedish hunting breed by crossing English Foxhounds, Harriers, and German hounds, including Holsteiner Hounds. The breed was designed for endurance and skill in hunting fox and hare over challenging terrain, reflecting its origins as a scent hound. Today, the Hamiltonstövare remains a medium-sized, tricolor hound with an athletic build and noble appearance, though its recognition status varies by registry. The breed's history is closely tied to its working purpose, but specific dates, health claims, or recognition milestones are not provided in the available facts.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
23–34 kilogramAdult weight52–61 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesPendingCoat colorsTricolorRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Friendlyenergeticintelligentalertindependent
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Hamiltonstövare-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 4
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Hamiltonstövare puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight23–34 kilogramAdult female weight23–34 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Hamiltonstövare?
The Hamiltonstövare is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult weight ranges from 23 to 34 kg for both males and females, and estimated adult height ranges from 52 to 61 cm. The estimated lifespan is 10 to 14 years. These figures are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the temperament of a Hamiltonstövare?
The breed is described as friendly, energetic, intelligent, alert, and independent. However, individual dogs may vary. They are rated 4 out of 5 for energy and trainability, suggesting they are active and generally responsive to training.
How much exercise does a Hamiltonstövare need?
With an energy score of 4 out of 5, the Hamiltonstövare is a high-energy breed that requires regular, vigorous exercise. They were bred for endurance hunting, so daily physical activity is important to keep them healthy and content.
What are the grooming requirements for a Hamiltonstövare?
Grooming needs are low, with a score of 2 out of 5. However, shedding is moderate (score 3). Regular brushing can help manage loose hair. The breed has a tricolor coat, but specific coat types are not listed.
Is a Hamiltonstövare suitable for families with children or other dogs?
The breed scores 4 out of 5 for child suitability, indicating it can be a good fit for families, though supervision and proper introduction are always recommended. For other dogs, the score is 3 out of 5, suggesting moderate compatibility; individual temperament and socialization play a role.
Can a Hamiltonstövare live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is rated 2 out of 5, meaning the breed is less ideal for small spaces. They are active and may need a home with a yard or access to regular outdoor exercise.
Where does the Hamiltonstövare originate from?
The Hamiltonstövare originates from Sweden. It was developed in the late 19th century by Count Adolf Patrick Hamilton using English Foxhounds, Harriers, and German hounds to create a dedicated Swedish hunting breed.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.