
Hound breed from Sweden
The Schillerstövare is a medium-sized Swedish scenthound, recognized by its tan coat with a black mantle. It is an energetic, intelligent, and alert breed, known for being loyal, courageous, and work-focused. Originally developed for hunting fox and hare, this breed possesses strong scenting abilities and endurance. As with any breed, individual temperaments can vary, so early socialization and training are recommended. The Schillerstövare is best suited for active households that can provide ample exercise and mental stimulation.
The Schillerstövare was developed in Sweden during the late 19th century by a farmer named Per Schiller. He crossed Swiss and German scenthounds with local Swedish hounds and English Harrier-type hounds. The goal was to create an exceptional hunter of fox and hare, and the breed was first exhibited in 1907. Its history is closely tied to its working purpose as a scenthound, and it remains a relatively rare breed outside of Scandinavia. The exact details of its early development are not fully documented, but the breed's origins are firmly rooted in Swedish hunting traditions.
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
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.
No Schillerstövare-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.
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
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The Schillerstövare is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult height ranges from 55 to 61 cm at the shoulder for both males and females. Estimated adult weight is between 18 and 25 kg for both sexes. The estimated lifespan is 12 to 15 years. These figures are based on modelled estimates and may vary among individuals.
The breed is described as energetic, intelligent, alert, loyal, courageous, and work-focused. However, individual dogs may differ. Early socialization and consistent training are important to help shape a well-rounded temperament.
The Schillerstövare has a high energy level (energy score 5 out of 5). It requires substantial daily exercise, including opportunities to run and engage in scent-based activities. Without adequate exercise, it may become restless or develop behavioral issues.
The breed has a short coat that requires minimal grooming (grooming score 2 out of 5). Regular brushing can help manage shedding (shedding score 3 out of 5). Bathing is needed only occasionally.
The breed has a low suitability for apartment living (score 2 out of 5). It is best suited to homes with a yard or access to open spaces where it can exercise freely. Apartment dwellers would need to commit to providing ample outdoor activity.
The breed has moderate suitability with children (score 3 out of 5) and other dogs (score 3 out of 5). Individual temperaments vary, so proper introductions and supervision are recommended. Early socialization can improve compatibility.
The Schillerstövare originates from Sweden. It was developed in the late 19th century by crossing Swiss and German scenthounds with local Swedish hounds and English Harrier-type hounds, specifically for hunting fox and hare.
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.