Drever Breed Description

Introduction

Also known as the Swedish Dachsbracke, these dogs are a re-creation of the type of short-legged dogs used to drive game towards the gun. Drevers were developed from the now rare Westphalian Dachsbracke and other local hounds. They are seldom seen outside of Sweden. Their personality can sometimes be considered overzealous. Headstrong and tenacious, these dogs often want to work long after their human companions are done. They are easy to train and make good watchdogs. Coat colors are black & white, fawn & white and tricolor. Grooming is minimal. They weigh 32 to 34 lbs. and stand 11-16" at the shoulders.

History

One of Sweden's most popular dogs today, the Drever was created in our modern age. Westphalian Drachsbrackes, scent hunters from Germany, were brought to Sweden in the early part of the 20th century. Seeking to adapt the dogs to the Swedish climate and terrain, the German Westphalians were bred with local hunting dogs and by the 1940s, Swedish Drachsbrackes were breeding true. In 1947, seeking a name for the dogs, which were increasingly popular, a newspaper contest involved the whole country in naming the animals. Drever won the competition; drev means hunt in Swedish.

Description

At first glance, the Drever might appear similar to the Bassett Hound, but look a bit more carefully and other than the height, there's really no resemblance at all. The Drever's body is less chesty and more tapered; front legs are straight and strong. The white-tipped tail is set just below the highest point of the rump, and the breed is known for its constant wagging.

The high-set ears fold over and hang to the jaw. The long head has the graceful profile of other hounds and bears more similarity to an English Fox Hound or Harrier than to any of the shorter stance breeds. The lips are tight, particularly the upper, and the jaws seal tightly as a result.

All Drevers have white markings on the face, neck, chest, feet and tail tip, no matter whether they are black, black and tan (brindle) or fawn. Their coat is short and dense, protecting their body no matter where the hunt takes them. Drevers use their bark to alert their owners and intimidate prey; it is loud and deep, nothing like what one might expect from a short small dog.

Temperament

Bred for strength and determination, Drevers make terrific field dogs, moving game towards the hunter with a level of dedication that belies their size. That nature means as a family pet, the Drever must understand its position in the pack to respond to training, and the instruction must be firm and consistent yet constantly loving and reinforcing. Harsh treatment will make the Drever stubborn and intractable; lax treatment will produce a bossy animal who believes itself the family's leader.

Health and Care

An average shedder, Drevers benefit from an occasional brushing with a shedding sponge or a damp cloth. Their coat is smooth and short. Bathe only when necessary. While they are active dogs, their size means even small spaces will provide enough room for them to run and play. They do fine in apartments if they get enough exercise, whether it is indoors or out. Take this tireless breed to your local dog park regularly as it enjoys socializing and running with other dogs.

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