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Small Swiss Hound (Schwizerischer Niederlaufhund)
Medium Breed
The Small Swiss Hound is a very friendly dog that shows no signs of nervousness in any situation. The beautiful breed has a very lively nature and is more than happy to play or go for walks with its family.
Breed standards
Country of origin
Switzerland
Weight
33 lbs/15 kgs
Height
Males 33-45 cm/13 1/4 - 18 inches; Females 31-42 cm/12 1/2 - 16 3/4 inches (Standards may vary)
Coat
Two coat varieties: Smooth coat short, smooth and close fitting with finer hair on the head and ears. Rough coat harsh, elastic, close fitting, barely any undercoat and with a slight beard
Markings
Four varieties of Small Swiss Hound with four different coat colours: white and black with tan markings (Small Bernese Hound), black with tan markings (Small Jura Hound), blue speckled with black mantle (Small Lucerne Hound) and white with orange-red mantle (Small Schwyz Hound) as well as all mixed colours of those.
Lifespan
Average 12-14 years
The Small Swiss Hound is a very talented hunter, able to follow a scent for a long way to pull in its quarry. Out of the field and into the home, the Small Swiss Hound makes a fine companion and is friendly and affectionate to its family.
Temperament
The Small Swiss Hound is an affectionate breed towards its owner and friendly to most. They vary in temperament from calm to lively, which can be influenced by their environment. Untiring as a scent hound, they hunt alone with great determination; they search and drive the game even on the most difficult terrain. They are useful tracking dogs with their keen sense of smell and powerful voice. They make lovely companions and require a consistent owner who will be firm with training.
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PoorChildrenGood
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VeryCombativenessNot very
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VeryDominanceNot very
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Not veryFriendlinessGood
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Not veryIndependenceVery
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LoudNoiseQuiet
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Not veryTrainabilityVery
Good to know
The Small Swiss Hound is a wonderful breed with a friendly and social temperament, excellent sense of smell and a tendency to be very vocal. The Small Swiss Hound was originally bred as a hunting dog.
- A very good companion
- An excellent hunting breed
- No trimming or stripping required
- Requires sufficient daily exercise
- Coat requires regular brushing