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Smaland Hound
Hound breed from Småland, Sweden
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Smaland Hound
The Smaland Hound is a medium-sized Swedish scenthound, recognized as the oldest native scent hound in Sweden. It has a compact, sturdy build with a short tricolor coat and often a naturally bobbed tail. The breed is known for its keen hunting ability and alert, energetic temperament. Individual dogs may vary, but common traits include being calm, intelligent, loyal, and alert. Energy and trainability are rated moderately high, while grooming needs are low. Shedding is moderate. The breed's suitability with children is rated high, with other dogs moderate, and apartment living moderate. Size estimates for males and females are similar: weight 13.6–20.4 kg, height 45.7–53.5 cm. Lifespan is estimated at 12–15 years. Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Smaland Hound at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginSmåland, Sweden
Lifespan12–15 years
Male weight13.6–20.4 kilogram
Female weight13.6–20.4 kilogram
Male height45.7–53.5 centimetre
Female height45.7–53.5 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Smaland Hound originates from the Småland province in Sweden and is considered Sweden's oldest native scent hound. Its history traces back to the 16th century, developed for hunting hare and fox in the dense southern Swedish forests. The modern breed was established in the early 20th century from local scenthounds and imported European hounds, with a focus on the natural bobtail trait and versatility. The breed's recognition status varies by registry, and specific dates of recognition are not provided. The breed's working purpose is historically as a scenthound, but no specific modern working roles are confirmed.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
13.6–20.4 kilogramAdult weight45.7–53.5 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesShortCoat colorsTricolorRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Calmintelligentloyalalertenergetic
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 Smaland Hound-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
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Smaland Hound 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 weight13.6–20.4 kilogramAdult female weight13.6–20.4 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 Smaland Hound?
The Smaland Hound is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult weight for both males and females ranges from 13.6 to 20.4 kg, and height from 45.7 to 53.5 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 15 years. These are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the temperament of a Smaland Hound?
Common temperament traits include being calm, intelligent, loyal, alert, and energetic. However, individual dogs may differ. The breed is rated moderately high in energy and trainability.
How much exercise does a Smaland Hound need?
The breed has an energy score of 4 out of 5, indicating a fairly high need for regular exercise. As a scenthound, it likely benefits from activities that engage its nose and allow it to explore.
What are the grooming requirements?
Grooming needs are low (score 2 out of 5) due to the short coat. Shedding is moderate (score 3 out of 5). Regular brushing can help manage loose hair.
Is the Smaland Hound good for families and other pets?
Child suitability is rated high (4 out of 5), but supervision is always recommended. Dog compatibility is moderate (3 out of 5), so early socialization is important. No specific information is provided about cats or other small pets.
Can a Smaland Hound live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is rated moderate (3 out of 5). While possible, the breed's energy level suggests a home with a yard or access to regular exercise may be more suitable.
Where does the Smaland Hound originate from?
The breed originates from the Småland province in Sweden. It is considered Sweden's oldest native scent hound, with origins dating back to the 16th century. The modern breed was developed in the early 20th century.
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.