Hamiltonstovare
The Hamiltonstovare, also known as Hamilton Hound, is a medium-sized hunting dog breed originally from Sweden.

Hamiltonstovare Breed overview
Hamiltonstovare is a medium-sized dog breed that was bred for hunting and tracking small game in Sweden. These dogs have an extraordinary sense of smell and tracking abilities, which makes them perfect for search and rescue missions or tracking games. Hamiltonstovare dogs require daily exercise and mental stimulation, as they have a high energy level and can be prone to boredom and destructive behaviors. These dogs are loyal and affectionate towards their family members, but they can be reserved with strangers. Hamiltonstovare dogs are versatile and can perform a variety of jobs, including hunting, tracking, and guarding. They are perfect for people who enjoy outdoor activities and can dedicate enough time to keep them active and healthy.
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What To Expect When Caring For a Hamiltonstovare
Nutrition
The Hamiltonstovare is an energetic breed that requires a high-quality diet that is rich in nutrients and protein.
It is important to feed them a diet that is appropriate for their age, activity level, and overall health.
Feeding them a diet that is low in grains and carbohydrates may help prevent obesity and promote overall health.
Exercise
The Hamiltonstovare is an active breed that requires regular exercise and mental stimulation.
They enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, running, and swimming and are best suited for families with an active lifestyle.
Hamiltonstovare also excel in dog sports such as agility and tracking.
Training
The Hamiltonstovare is an intelligent breed that responds well to positive reinforcement training techniques.
Early socialization and training are important to ensure they grow up to be well-behaved and happy dogs.
They have a strong hunting drive, so it is important to provide them with appropriate outlets for their natural instincts.
Grooming
The Hamiltonstovare has a short coat that is easy to maintain with weekly brushing to reduce shedding.
They only need to be bathed as needed and should have their ears checked and cleaned regularly to avoid infections.
Health
The Hamiltonstovare is generally a healthy breed, with no major health concerns.
Like any breed, they may be prone to certain health conditions such as hip dysplasia and ear infections.
It is important to keep up with regular vet checkups, vaccinations, and preventative care to keep your Hamiltonstovare healthy.
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Hamiltonstovare Traits & Characteristics
The Hamiltonstovare is a medium-sized dog, with an average height of 18-22 inches and a weight of 40-60 pounds.
The breed's coat is short, dense, and glossy with a distinctive tricolor pattern of black, tan, and white.
They have a muscular and athletic build, with a long tail and long hanging ears.
Affection
The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.
Hamiltonstovare dogs love spending time with their family members and enjoy affectionate petting, but they are not overly clingy dogs. They are loyal and affectionate, but not needy. These dogs might be reserved with strangers, but they are very attached to their people.
Children
How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are generally great with children. They are playful and energetic, and will keep children entertained for hours. These dogs have a high-energy level which makes them perfect for kids. They are strong and sturdy which makes them good play companions for active children who enjoy running and jumping.
Dogs
The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are natural pack animals and are generally friendly and sociable towards other dogs. Early socialization is important for these dogs to prevent any aggression towards other dogs. They are gentle dogs and they would much rather play with their canine friends than fight with them.
Strangers
The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are naturally reserved with strangers, as they are intuitive watchdogs. They are very attentive and will let their owners know if they sense a threat. However, if they are socialized from an early age, they can get along with strangers without any problem. Hamiltonstovare dogs are great guard dogs.
Playfulness
The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are playful and energetic, making them perfect playmates for kids or other dogs. They have a high energy level and require daily exercise and playtime. These dogs have an extraordinary sense of smell and love games that involve using their nose to track objects or people.
Alertness
The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs
Hamiltonstovare dogs are watchful and alert, which makes them ideal watchdogs. These dogs are very attentive and will let you know if they sense danger or if someone is at the door. Their tracking skills and loyalty make them effective for hunting and tracking games too.
Adaptability
The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are very adaptable to new environments, and can easily adjust to changes in their surroundings. They are not clingy dogs, so they will not be too affected by new people or new surroundings. These dogs are perfect for people who move around a lot, as they can fit well with different lifestyles.
Shedding
The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.
Hamiltonstovare dogs have a short and dense coat that sheds moderately all year round, requiring weekly grooming to remove dead hairs. The good news is they don't shed excessively or seasonally, and their grooming needs are manageable. These dogs are perfect for anyone with a light allergy to dog hair, as they don't require too much cleaning up.
Grooming
The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are moderate-to-high-maintenance when it comes to grooming. They require regular weekly grooming to keep their short, dense coat in good condition, particularly during shedding season. These dogs require nail trimming, ear cleaning, teeth brushing and occasional bathing to keep them healthy and comfortable.
Drooling
The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are very dry mouthed and don't drool much, so they don't pose a drool-related mess issue for their owners. Owners thirsty for drool will need to look elsewhere as these dogs are the exact opposite.
Size
The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are medium-sized dogs that weigh between 40 and 70 pounds. They are muscular and athletic dogs that have a sleek and elegant appearance. These dogs are not too small nor too big, making them perfect for families who want a compact-sized dog with a sturdy build.
Energy
The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.
Hamiltonstovare dogs have a high energy level and require daily exercise and playtime. These dogs were bred to hunt and track, so they need to be physically active to stay healthy and happy. Owners need to take them for long walks, let them run off-leash in a secure area, or train them for tracking/hunting to keep them active.
Exercise
The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Hamiltonstovare dogs require a lot of physical exercise to stay healthy and happy. These dogs need daily walks, runs, or playtime to keep them physically active and mentally stimulated. Owners need to make sure they provide them with enough exercise, particularly during the colder months, when they may not get enough time outdoors.
Working
The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are versatile and can perform a variety of jobs, including tracking, hunting, and guarding. They have an extraordinary sense of smell, which makes them perfect for tracking games or search and rescue missions. These dogs are natural hunters, and they need to be physically active to stay healthy and happy.
Hunting
The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.
Hamiltonstovare dogs have a strong hunting instinct that makes them excellent hunting companions. These dogs were bred to hunt small game, and they have a great sense of smell and tracking abilities. They require regular exercise and training to keep them active and healthy, particularly if they live in urban areas where there is less opportunity to track and hunt.
Vigor
The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.
Hamiltonstovare dogs have a high level of physical stamina and endurance, which makes them perfect for hunting, tracking, and running. These dogs are athletic and well-built, with a great sense of balance and agility. They require regular exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy, and they can easily keep up with their owners in any outdoor activity.
Health
The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are generally healthy, but they can be prone to ear infections and hip dysplasia. Owners should make sure they keep their ears clean and dry, and that they only buy puppies from reputable breeders who health-test their dogs. These dogs require regular check-ups and vaccinations to stay healthy.
Obesity
The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are not prone to obesity, as they have a high energy level and require a lot of exercise and playtime. Owners should make sure they provide balanced and high-quality food, and that they limit their treats and table scraps. These dogs need to maintain a healthy weight to stay active and healthy.
Cold
The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.
Hamiltonstovare dogs have a dense coat that is perfect for cold weather. These dogs can tolerate cold temperatures very well and enjoy playing in the snow. Owners should make sure they keep them warm and dry if they plan to take them out in freezing weather, as these dogs are not immune to extreme conditions.
Heat
The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.
Hamiltonstovare dogs can handle hot temperatures, but owners need to make sure they provide them with enough cool water and shade during the day to avoid any heatstroke or dehydration. These dogs are used to cold weather, so owners should keep an eye on them if they show signs of discomfort or if they pant excessively.
Apartment
The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are not suitable for apartments or small living spaces. These dogs need a lot of exercise and space to run around. They are high-energy dogs that require daily exercise and playtime. Owners need to have a secure and fenced outdoor area where they can run and play.
Wanderlust
The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are bred for hunting and tracking, so it's in their nature to explore and wander around. They require a secure and fenced yard or a leash to explore the outdoors safely. Owners need to supervise them, as these dogs can easily wander off if they catch a scent they can't resist.
Sensitivity
The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are generally not too sensitive and can handle some criticism or negative reinforcement during training. However, owners should avoid harsh training methods, as these dogs can become stubborn and resistant to training. Owners need to be patient and consistent to get good results.
Separation
The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.
Hamiltonstovare dogs can handle being left alone for a few hours, but they should not be left alone for longer periods. These dogs require a lot of exercise and playtime, so they may become destructive or anxious if they are left alone for too long. Owners can prepare a safe space and interactive toys for when they leave them alone.
Barking
The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are not excessive barkers, but they can be vocal when they sense danger or if they are excited. These dogs are not prone to barking for no reason, so owners shouldn't have too much trouble with excessive barking out of boredom or loneliness.
Mental
The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.
Hamiltonstovare dogs require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. These dogs have an extraordinary sense of smell, and love games that involve using their nose to track objects or people. They also require daily playtime, exercise and training to keep them active and healthy. Owners can give them interactive toys or treat puzzles to keep them mentally stimulated.
Novice_owners
Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.
Hamiltonstovare dogs require an experienced and patient owner who can handle their strong-willed and independent nature. These dogs can be challenging to train, so novice owners might struggle to handle them. They also require a lot of exercise and playtime, so owners need to be ready to dedicate time to them every day.
Trainability
The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.
Hamiltonstovare dogs can be a little difficult to train initially, as they are independent thinkers and can be stubborn. However, with consistency and positive reinforcement, these dogs can be trained. Owners need to use firm but gentle training methods with positive reinforcement techniques.
Affection
The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.
Hamiltonstovare dogs love spending time with their family members and enjoy affectionate petting, but they are not overly clingy dogs. They are loyal and affectionate, but not needy. These dogs might be reserved with strangers, but they are very attached to their people.
Children
How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are generally great with children. They are playful and energetic, and will keep children entertained for hours. These dogs have a high-energy level which makes them perfect for kids. They are strong and sturdy which makes them good play companions for active children who enjoy running and jumping.
Dogs
The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are natural pack animals and are generally friendly and sociable towards other dogs. Early socialization is important for these dogs to prevent any aggression towards other dogs. They are gentle dogs and they would much rather play with their canine friends than fight with them.
Strangers
The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are naturally reserved with strangers, as they are intuitive watchdogs. They are very attentive and will let their owners know if they sense a threat. However, if they are socialized from an early age, they can get along with strangers without any problem. Hamiltonstovare dogs are great guard dogs.
Playfulness
The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are playful and energetic, making them perfect playmates for kids or other dogs. They have a high energy level and require daily exercise and playtime. These dogs have an extraordinary sense of smell and love games that involve using their nose to track objects or people.
Alertness
The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs
Hamiltonstovare dogs are watchful and alert, which makes them ideal watchdogs. These dogs are very attentive and will let you know if they sense danger or if someone is at the door. Their tracking skills and loyalty make them effective for hunting and tracking games too.
Adaptability
The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are very adaptable to new environments, and can easily adjust to changes in their surroundings. They are not clingy dogs, so they will not be too affected by new people or new surroundings. These dogs are perfect for people who move around a lot, as they can fit well with different lifestyles.
Shedding
The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.
Hamiltonstovare dogs have a short and dense coat that sheds moderately all year round, requiring weekly grooming to remove dead hairs. The good news is they don't shed excessively or seasonally, and their grooming needs are manageable. These dogs are perfect for anyone with a light allergy to dog hair, as they don't require too much cleaning up.
Grooming
The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are moderate-to-high-maintenance when it comes to grooming. They require regular weekly grooming to keep their short, dense coat in good condition, particularly during shedding season. These dogs require nail trimming, ear cleaning, teeth brushing and occasional bathing to keep them healthy and comfortable.
Drooling
The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are very dry mouthed and don't drool much, so they don't pose a drool-related mess issue for their owners. Owners thirsty for drool will need to look elsewhere as these dogs are the exact opposite.
Size
The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are medium-sized dogs that weigh between 40 and 70 pounds. They are muscular and athletic dogs that have a sleek and elegant appearance. These dogs are not too small nor too big, making them perfect for families who want a compact-sized dog with a sturdy build.
Energy
The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.
Hamiltonstovare dogs have a high energy level and require daily exercise and playtime. These dogs were bred to hunt and track, so they need to be physically active to stay healthy and happy. Owners need to take them for long walks, let them run off-leash in a secure area, or train them for tracking/hunting to keep them active.
Exercise
The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Hamiltonstovare dogs require a lot of physical exercise to stay healthy and happy. These dogs need daily walks, runs, or playtime to keep them physically active and mentally stimulated. Owners need to make sure they provide them with enough exercise, particularly during the colder months, when they may not get enough time outdoors.
Working
The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are versatile and can perform a variety of jobs, including tracking, hunting, and guarding. They have an extraordinary sense of smell, which makes them perfect for tracking games or search and rescue missions. These dogs are natural hunters, and they need to be physically active to stay healthy and happy.
Hunting
The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.
Hamiltonstovare dogs have a strong hunting instinct that makes them excellent hunting companions. These dogs were bred to hunt small game, and they have a great sense of smell and tracking abilities. They require regular exercise and training to keep them active and healthy, particularly if they live in urban areas where there is less opportunity to track and hunt.
Vigor
The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.
Hamiltonstovare dogs have a high level of physical stamina and endurance, which makes them perfect for hunting, tracking, and running. These dogs are athletic and well-built, with a great sense of balance and agility. They require regular exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy, and they can easily keep up with their owners in any outdoor activity.
Health
The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are generally healthy, but they can be prone to ear infections and hip dysplasia. Owners should make sure they keep their ears clean and dry, and that they only buy puppies from reputable breeders who health-test their dogs. These dogs require regular check-ups and vaccinations to stay healthy.
Obesity
The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are not prone to obesity, as they have a high energy level and require a lot of exercise and playtime. Owners should make sure they provide balanced and high-quality food, and that they limit their treats and table scraps. These dogs need to maintain a healthy weight to stay active and healthy.
Cold
The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.
Hamiltonstovare dogs have a dense coat that is perfect for cold weather. These dogs can tolerate cold temperatures very well and enjoy playing in the snow. Owners should make sure they keep them warm and dry if they plan to take them out in freezing weather, as these dogs are not immune to extreme conditions.
Heat
The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.
Hamiltonstovare dogs can handle hot temperatures, but owners need to make sure they provide them with enough cool water and shade during the day to avoid any heatstroke or dehydration. These dogs are used to cold weather, so owners should keep an eye on them if they show signs of discomfort or if they pant excessively.
Apartment
The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are not suitable for apartments or small living spaces. These dogs need a lot of exercise and space to run around. They are high-energy dogs that require daily exercise and playtime. Owners need to have a secure and fenced outdoor area where they can run and play.
Wanderlust
The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are bred for hunting and tracking, so it's in their nature to explore and wander around. They require a secure and fenced yard or a leash to explore the outdoors safely. Owners need to supervise them, as these dogs can easily wander off if they catch a scent they can't resist.
Sensitivity
The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are generally not too sensitive and can handle some criticism or negative reinforcement during training. However, owners should avoid harsh training methods, as these dogs can become stubborn and resistant to training. Owners need to be patient and consistent to get good results.
Separation
The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.
Hamiltonstovare dogs can handle being left alone for a few hours, but they should not be left alone for longer periods. These dogs require a lot of exercise and playtime, so they may become destructive or anxious if they are left alone for too long. Owners can prepare a safe space and interactive toys for when they leave them alone.
Barking
The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.
Hamiltonstovare dogs are not excessive barkers, but they can be vocal when they sense danger or if they are excited. These dogs are not prone to barking for no reason, so owners shouldn't have too much trouble with excessive barking out of boredom or loneliness.
Mental
The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.
Hamiltonstovare dogs require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. These dogs have an extraordinary sense of smell, and love games that involve using their nose to track objects or people. They also require daily playtime, exercise and training to keep them active and healthy. Owners can give them interactive toys or treat puzzles to keep them mentally stimulated.
Novice_owners
Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.
Hamiltonstovare dogs require an experienced and patient owner who can handle their strong-willed and independent nature. These dogs can be challenging to train, so novice owners might struggle to handle them. They also require a lot of exercise and playtime, so owners need to be ready to dedicate time to them every day.
Trainability
The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.
Hamiltonstovare dogs can be a little difficult to train initially, as they are independent thinkers and can be stubborn. However, with consistency and positive reinforcement, these dogs can be trained. Owners need to use firm but gentle training methods with positive reinforcement techniques.
Similar breeds
History of the Hamiltonstovare
The Hamiltonstovare breed was developed in Sweden in the 1800s by Count Adolf Hamilton.
The breed was developed by crossing different hound breeds, including the Harrier, Foxhound, and Schweizer Laufhund, to create a dog with excellent hunting skills.
The breed was recognized by the Swedish Kennel Club in 1921 and was later introduced to the United States in the 1980s.

Hamiltonstovare Puppies
Hamiltonstovare litters usually consist of 5-8 puppies.
The average price for a well-bred Hamiltonstovare puppy is around $1500-$2000 USD.
It is important to socialize Hamiltonstovare puppies early to ensure they grow up to be well-adjusted and happy dogs.