Mike Clinton
What is a Drever?
The Drever is a small to medium-sized breed of dog that belongs to the hound group. Originally from Sweden, Drevers were bred for hunting purposes, especially for tracking and chasing game like hares and foxes. These dogs are known for their excellent sense of smell and stamina, making them ideal companions for hunting in the rough terrain of Sweden. They have a distinct appearance with short legs, a long body, and droopy ears.
History and Origin of the Drever
The Drever breed has its origins in Sweden, where it was developed in the 20th century by crossing the Westphalian Dachsbracke and the Swedish Hound. The goal was to create a dog that was well-suited for hunting in Sweden’s dense forests and challenging terrain. The name "Drever" comes from the Swedish word "dreva," which means to drive or hunt. Today, Drevers are still popular hunting dogs in Sweden, but they have also gained a following as family pets and companions in other parts of the world.
Physical Characteristics of a Drever
Drevers have a distinctive look with their short legs, long body, and droopy ears. They are small to medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 35-45 pounds and standing 12-16 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a short, dense coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black, tan, and white. They have a muscular build and a strong, sturdy frame that enables them to navigate through rough terrain with ease.
Is a Drever a Good Family Dog?
Drevers can make excellent family dogs, provided they receive proper socialization and training from an early age. They are friendly, affectionate, and loyal to their owners. They tend to get along well with children and other pets in the household, although they may have a strong prey drive that makes them unsuitable for homes with small animals like cats or rabbits. Overall, Drevers are a good choice for active families who enjoy spending time outdoors and have experience with training and handling dogs.
Drever’s Temperament and Personality Traits
Drevers are known for their outgoing and friendly personalities. They are social dogs that enjoy being around people and other dogs. They can be independent and stubborn at times, which can make training a challenge. However, with patience and consistency, Drevers can be trained to follow commands and behave well in a variety of situations. They are also intelligent dogs that enjoy mental stimulation and problem-solving tasks.
Training a Drever: Tips and Tricks
Training a Drever requires patience and consistency. These dogs can be stubborn and independent, so it’s essential to establish a firm but gentle leadership style. Positive reinforcement and reward-based training methods work well with Drevers. They respond well to treats, praise, and toys as motivators. Early socialization is also essential for Drevers to ensure they are comfortable around people, other dogs, and different environments.
Exercise and Activity for a Drever
Drevers are active and athletic dogs that require plenty of exercise and activity to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy long walks, jogs, and hikes, and they have a lot of stamina, making them ideal companions for outdoor activities. Drevers also enjoy mental stimulation, so puzzle toys and games that challenge their problem-solving abilities are great options for keeping them entertained.
Feeding a Drever: Essential Nutrients and Diet
Feeding a Drever requires a high-quality diet that is rich in protein and essential nutrients. They require a balanced diet that provides them with the energy they need for their active lifestyles. Drevers should be fed a diet that includes meat, vegetables, and grains. It’s essential to monitor their weight and adjust their feeding plan accordingly to prevent obesity, which can lead to health problems.
Common Health Issues in Drevers
Drevers are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health issues. These include hip dysplasia, ear infections, and obesity. Regular veterinary checkups and proper grooming can help prevent many health problems in Drevers. It’s also essential to provide them with regular exercise and a balanced diet to keep them in good health.
Conclusion: Is a Drever Right for You?
Drevers are friendly, outgoing dogs with an excellent sense of smell and a lot of stamina. They make great companions for active families who enjoy spending time outdoors. However, they can be stubborn and independent, which can make training a challenge. If you have experience with training and handling dogs and are looking for an active and loyal companion, then a Drever might be the right choice for you.