Small Swiss Hound

Schweizerischer Niederlaufhund, Petit Chien Courant Suisse, Swiss Small Hound
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Small Swiss Hound is a scent hound from Switzerland, known for its hunting abilities, particularly for hare. They have a friendly yet independent temperament, and are energetic dogs needing lots of exercise.

Origin and Purpose

  • Developed in Switzerland as a scent hound for hunting small game, particularly hare.

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female13-16 inches (35-40 cm)22-33 pounds (10-15 kg)
Male13-16 inches (35-43 cm)22-33 pounds (10-15 kg)

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • White with red patches
  • White with black patches
  • White with fawn patches
  • Tricolor (white with black and tan patches)
Type
  • Short, dense, and smooth
Length
  • Short

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Moderate
Grooming
  • Low
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Proportionate to the body, with a slightly rounded skull.
Skull
  • Slightly rounded
Ears
  • Set on high, falling down, medium length, and rounded at the tip
Eyes
  • Dark brown
Nose
  • Black
Muzzle
  • Medium length, straight
Teeth
  • Scissor bite
Neck
  • Muscular and of medium length
Forequarters
  • Well-muscled and straight
Fore Legs
  • Straight and strong
Hindquarters
  • Well-muscled and angled
Hind Legs
  • Straight and strong
Feet
  • Oval with well-arched toes
Tail
  • Set on high, reaches to the hocks or slightly below; carried saber-like or slightly curved.
Gait
  • Smooth and ground-covering

Temperament

  • Intelligent, lively, friendly, and independent. They have a strong prey drive and a good sense of smell.

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • Yes
Good with Children
  • Yes, generally
Good with Dogs
  • Yes
Good with Cats
  • Potentially, with early socialization
Openness to Strangers
  • Reserved
Playfulness Level
  • Moderate
Protective Nature
  • Low
Adaptability Level
  • Moderate

Working Roles

  • Hunting small game, particularly hare

Exercise Needs

  • High; requires regular daily exercise including long walks or runs and opportunities for scent work

Health

  • Generally healthy breed

Additional Notes

  • A scent hound breed, not suitable for apartments without significant daily exercise. Requires a strong-willed owner who can provide consistent training.

References