Origin
The Hamiltonstovare (also known as the Hamilton Hound) originated in Sweden in the 19th century. The breed was created by Adolf Patrick Hamilton, the founder of the Swedish Kennel Club, to hunt fox and hare over difficult terrain and in all weathers including deep snow. The background of the Hamiltonstovare is believed to include the Foxhound, the Holsteiner Hound, the Heiderbracke, the Harrier and the Curland Hound. Developed to work singly rather than in a pack the Hamiltonstovare excels at flushing, tracking and trailing. The breed was first shown in Sweden in 1886 and is the most popular of the hounds in that country. Outside of its homeland it is little known and is considered a rare breed but it is making strides in Britain both as a companion and show dog.
Character
This handsome hound is an excellent companion. By nature he is very gentle and even-tempered and will bond strongly with his family. His love of people and his need for human company mean that he will fail to thrive if relegated to a lonely outdoor existence. In such circumstances he will become miserable and bored and may indulge in tedium-relieving activities such as digging, barking and escape attempts. A securely fenced garden is essential as his hunting instincts are strong and, once loose, he will roam for miles risking becoming lost, injured or stolen, or dying on the roads. He is generally good with other dogs and his active, fun-loving but patient personality make him a suitable friend for children. Friendliness is a hallmark of his character but he will alert to strangers approaching ‘his’ property and he will protect and defend his people if sufficiently provoked. Clean both in lines and habits he is reputed to be one of the more easily house-trained breeds and is low-maintenance in terms of grooming. This breed is recommended for individuals or families who can give him a place by the fireside, plenty of companionship and adequate exercise
Exercise
The Hamiltonstovare needs a considerable amount of exercise to keep him physically fit and mentally stimulated. Long, brisk, daily walks are essential to his well-being and he is happy to be out and about in any sort of weather. Off-lead exercise should be undertaken only in a safe area as should he hear, see, or smell ‘prey’ any inclination to obey a recall command will disappear as rapidly as he does. Organized tracking sports would be an ideal way to provide exercise and allow him to use his excellent scenting ability. As with all large breeds care should be taken not to over-exercise puppies and young dogs as this can damage immature joints and bones and give rise to grave and painful problems in later life.
Training
This is a large and powerful breed and in order to have a dog that will walk well on-lead, be a pleasant household companion and acceptable to the wider community basic obedience training should be commenced at a young age. Bred for many years to be receptive and agreeable to the directions of the huntsman the Hamiltonstovare is not a difficult dog to train. Positive reinforcement, in the form of treats and sincere praise, for good efforts and a job well done will achieve far greater, and much faster, results than any methods using harsh physical or verbal discipline - neither of which should have a place in the training of any dog. Socialization starting in puppyhood is vital for the correct psychological development of the dog. Introducing the pup to as many kinds of people, places, noises and situations as possible will prepare him for what life in the human world holds and will ensure that he grows into a well-rounded, well-mannered, calm and confident adult .
Health
- No known hereditary disorders.
Pictures
Some photographs of the Hamiltonstovare...
