small breed Hound From Sweden

Drever: Personality, Size, Traits and Care Guide

If you are researching the Drever, you are looking at a small hound breed from Sweden with a particular set of needs and strengths. They are often described as even-tempered, determined, and friendly, though every individual dog is shaped by upbringing, environment, and training. The Drever was historically used as a scenthound for roe deer, deer, hare and fox hunting, which continues to influence how the breed behaves today. The sections below cover what owners typically experience day to day, alongside care points worth thinking about before bringing one home.

Quick facts

Group: Hound
Origin: Sweden
Size: Small
Life expectancy: 12–15 years
Male height: 12–16 in
Female height: 12–15 in
Male weight: 35–40 lb
Female weight: 30–35 lb
Coat type: straight, hard, dense and not too short
Colours: tricolor or bicolor hound patterns

Trait ratings

Energy 4/5

Exercise needs 4/5

Trainability 3/5

Grooming 2/5

Shedding 3/5

Good with kids 3/5

Apartment-friendly 3/5

Barking 4/5

Ratings are 0–5 general guidance from the breed dataset. Individual dogs always vary.

Personality and temperament

Temperament keywords commonly attached to the Drever include even-tempered, determined, friendly, and calm. Energy levels are usually fairly high, which directly affects how much daily stimulation the dog will look for. They can be playful in the right mood, especially with familiar people. Many Drevers are vocal and will bark to communicate, which is worth knowing for terraced or shared homes.

Size and appearance

The Drever is a small dog with a recognisable silhouette. Adult males typically stand around 12–16 inches at the shoulder, with females usually a little smaller at 12–15 inches. Weight ranges sit broadly at 35–40 lb for males and 30–35 lb for females, with variation by line and conditioning. Their coat is generally described as straight, hard, dense and not too short. Common coat colours include tricolor or bicolor hound patterns.

Coat and grooming

Grooming needs are generally light. A weekly brush with periodic baths is usually sufficient. Shedding is moderate — manageable with consistent brushing, but visible on furniture and clothing.

Exercise needs

Daily exercise needs are generally substantial. Plan for at least an hour or more of structured activity each day — long walks, secure off-lead time where appropriate, and varied mental enrichment. Mental stimulation matters as much as physical — scent games, food puzzles, and reward-based training all help channel that energy.

Training

Trainability is generally reasonably responsive. With patient, reward-based methods and consistency, most dogs of this breed progress steadily through basic and intermediate training. First-time owners can manage with research and ideally some support from a qualified trainer.

Family suitability

Many can live well with older, dog-savvy children, particularly with early socialisation and clear household rules. They tend to get along with other dogs given proper introductions. They can be polite with newcomers once introduced calmly.

Living environment

Apartment living is workable with daily outings, mental enrichment, and access to outdoor spaces. Climate-wise, the breed manages warm weather with sensible precautions and tolerates cold conditions comfortably.

Pros and cons

Often loved for

✓Relatively low grooming maintenance

Worth considering

!Needs substantial daily exercise
!Can be vocal
!Higher prey drive — care needed around small animals

Who this breed is best for

The Drever is generally a good fit for households that can match its needs: significant daily exercise, tolerance of a vocal dog, and ongoing time, training and care across what is typically a 10–15 year commitment. As always, individual dogs vary — meeting specific dogs and speaking to experienced owners is the best way to confirm fit.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Drever a good family dog?

Drevers can do well in family homes, especially with older children who understand how to interact calmly with dogs. As with any breed, supervised interaction matters.

How much exercise does a Drever need?

The Drever typically needs an hour or more of daily activity, ideally combining walks, play, and mental stimulation. Without enough outlet, restlessness and unwanted behaviour can develop.

Does a Drever shed a lot?

Shedding is moderate. Weekly to twice-weekly brushing usually keeps loose hair manageable.

Is a Drever easy to train?

Training the Drever is workable with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement.

Can a Drever live in an apartment?

Apartment living can work for a Drever with consistent daily outings, training, and mental stimulation.

How long do Drevers live?

Average life expectancy for the Drever is typically around 12–15 years. Individual lifespan depends on genetics, diet, exercise, veterinary care, and chance.

A note on this information. Breed descriptions on this site are general guidance based on publicly available data and editorial review. Every dog is an individual — temperament, health and behaviour vary within any breed. Information here is not veterinary, medical or professional training advice. For health concerns, behaviour problems, or major decisions, please speak with a qualified veterinarian or certified trainer.

Reference source: FCI · Reviewed 2026-04-13