Hamilton Hound

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Breed Details

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Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Hamilton Hound (also known as Hamiltonst�vare and Swedish Foxhound) is a medium size hunting breed that originated in Sweden. It is named after its developer, Count Adolf Hamilton, who crossed German hounds with English Foxhounds, Swiss Scenthounds and Harriers.

This dog has a well proportioned, rectangular body that gives impression of immense strength and stamina. It is uniquely identifiable by white blazes on head, down the neck, white four paws and a white tail tip. The dog stands between 21-24 inches and weighs between 50-60 lbs with bitches being lighter and shorter. Males and females have clearly defined differences. The breed comes with a longish head and moderately broad, slightly arched skull. It has moderately long and square muzzle with a straight nose bridge. Always black and well developed nose has wide nostrils. Dark brown eyes hold a calm and serene expression. Moderate size ears are set high, soft and hang flat. When drawn forward, the ears should not reach half-way along the muzzle. Long neck is strong with supple and close-fitting skin.

The dog has level, powerful back, a muscular and slightly arched loin as well as a broad long croup. Long and deep chest is well developed and has moderately sprung ribs. Belly is slightly tucked up. The tail is set level with the back. It has a thick base and tapers towards the tip. It is carried either in straight position or slightly curled up, in a saber like fashion but never above the backline. This breed has moderately long, harsh and close-fitting coat that comes in striking tri-colouring. Over all appearance of this dog is that of a hardy, sound, handsome, upstanding dog of striking colouring.

This breed is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by most major kennel clubs like FCI, UKC, KC, NZKC & ANKC.

Color

The coat comes in distinctively defined tri coloring with black, tan and white coloring distributed in a defined manner all over the body. Upper side of neck, back, sides of trunk and upper side of tail is black. Head, legs, sides of neck, tail and trunk are tan while white markings are present on upper part of muzzle as blaze, under side of neck, breast and tip of tail, lower legs and feet.

Coat

The dog has a double coat. Under coat is short , soft and dense. It grows thicker during winter. The long, top weather-resistant coat lies flat and very close to skin. It is harsh to touch. It is very short and soft on head, ears and front of legs while longer on back of thighs and under the tail.

Personality

Lively, energetic, even tempered and calm, the Hamilton Hound besides being a hunting dog par excellence, is also highly valued for its affectionate and loving nature. The dog is obedient to its master and very playful yet gentle and patient with children. It makes a very good playmate of children. Very human oriented, the dog craves for constant human affection. It is very sweet natured and loyal breed that is very friendly with all the family members. Infact, due to its friendly nature, these dogs do not make good watch dogs. It is tolerant of other dogs but high prey drive makes it unsuitable around other pets unless it is properly socialized with them.

As a hard working hunter, the dog loves to be outdoors as much as it likes to be indoors with its family. Though gregarious and friendly, this dog, who hunts hares and foxes independently and not in a pack, does have an independent and stubborn nature and it likes to do what it feels like doing rather than what might be requested of it. Obedience training and socialization are important.

It is an excellent and trustworthy breed that will be a pleasant addition in the family.

Care

Moderately long coat will need 1-2 times brushing to remove dead hair. Bathing becomes compulsory only when the dog is very dirty. Ears should be checked for infection.

Training

Though generally obedient and docile to its master, the Hamilton Hound does have an independent nature. It will respond to rewarding and inspirational training routines instantly. Rewards can be praise and appreciation. With proper training methods, this sweet natured dog is not difficult to train.

Activity

An energetic breed like Hamilton Hound needs lots of exercise. It is an intelligent working dog that needs both physical and mental stimulation. Daily walks and dog plays like fetch ball will keep this dog not only happy but also fit and healthy. This is not a suitable dog for apartment living not only for its propensity to bark but also because it needs a large open space to run and play.