Drever (Swedish Dreverhound)
Other names
Swedish Dachshund, Swedish Dachsbracke
Origin & history
The Drever is a hunting dog of Swedish origin, developed in the early 20th century. Its name comes from the Swedish word "driva," meaning "to drive"—referring to its original task: tracking and slowly driving game toward the hunter.
The Drever was created by crossing the Westphalian Dachsbracke (a German short-legged hound) with local Swedish hunting dogs. The goal was to create a dog that would perform well in the rugged, snowy terrain of Scandinavia and could work in low temperatures and on difficult terrain.
In 1947, the Drever was officially recognised as the national breed of Sweden, and today it remains one of the most valued hunting dogs for roe deer, hare and foxes.
Appearance & body shape
The Drever is a short-legged, elongated dog with a sturdy, muscular build and an alert appearance. Its body resembles that of a small hound or dachshund, but more robust and powerful.
The coat is short, dense, and smooth, resistant to cold and moisture. Colors range from tricolor (black, white, brown) to red-and-white or yellow-and-white, usually with white markings on the chest, legs, and tip of the tail.
The Drever has a friendly, open look, dark eyes and medium-sized, hanging ears that lie close to the head.
Format
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Height: 30–38 cm (preferably 35 cm)
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Weight: 14–16 kg
Character & temperament
The Drever is friendly, determined, and reliable. He combines the temperament of a hunting dog with the balance of a good family dog.
At work, he's driven, persistent, and tireless—he follows trails with great precision and can keep going for hours. At home, he's calm, sociable, and affectionate.
The Drever is known for its good humor: it's cheerful, tolerant, and adapts easily to family life. It's intelligent, eager to learn, and obedient, yet also independent enough to make its own decisions in the field.
He generally gets along well with children and other dogs, especially if properly socialized. He's friendly with strangers, but will bark as a warning—without being overly vigilant.
Movement & care
The Drever is an active dog that needs plenty of daily exercise. He enjoys long walks, tracking, or hunting training, and enjoys activities where he can use his nose.
He has a stable energy level: calm indoors, but alert and energetic when he's outside. Sufficient mental stimulation (such as brain training or scent games) keeps him happy and prevents boredom.
The coat is low-maintenance: weekly brushing is sufficient. During shedding season, more frequent brushing helps remove loose hair.
Health
The Drever is a strong, robust, and healthy breed with few hereditary conditions. Thanks to its natural development as a working dog, it is highly resistant to cold and wet conditions.
However, its long back does require attention: avoid excessive jumping, especially with young dogs, to protect the spine.
Average life expectancy: 12 to 15 years.
Difference with similar breeds
The Drever resembles the Dachshund in appearance, but is larger, sturdier, and bred more for herding than for digging. Compared to the Westphalian Dachsbracke, its German ancestor, the Drever is slightly longer and more powerful, adapted to northern hunting conditions.
While many hounds are quite noisy, the Drever has a more balanced voice: it barks functionally while hunting, but is remarkably quiet at home.
Summary
The Drever is a cheerful, courageous, and reliable dog that combines a strong work ethic with a gentle nature. Active, sociable, and loyal to its family, it adapts well to family life—as long as it can expend its energy daily.
For those who enjoy walking, outdoor living and a balanced hunting dog with a friendly character, the Drever is a wonderful companion with a big heart and a kind disposition.