The Drever is a robust, short-legged, and long-bodied dog, resembling a larger, sturdier Dachshund.

12-16 inches (30-40 cm) at the shoulder

30-35 pounds (14-16 kg)

Short, harsh, and close-lying, with a denser undercoat in colder climates

Any color is permissible with white markings; common colors include black and tan, red and white, and tricolor

Relatively large with a well-defined stop and a slightly domed skull

Medium-length, broad, and set fairly low, hanging close to the head

Long and carried slightly curved, never curled over the back

Drevers are known for their friendly, even-tempered, and alert nature, making them excellent family pets as well as determined hunters.

Forms strong bonds with their family and are known to be very devoted.

Highly observant and aware of their surroundings, making them good watchdogs.

Generally calm and stable, not prone to excessive excitability or aggression.

Possesses a degree of independence, stemming from their hunting heritage.

Generally good with people, including children, when properly socialized.

Shows great persistence and focus, especially when on a scent.

Drevers are best suited for active individuals or families who can provide them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, and who appreciate a loyal and alert companion.

Good with children when properly socialized.

Not ideal for apartment living without ample outdoor activity.

The ideal owner for a Drever is someone active, patient, and consistent, who can provide ample exercise and training, and who lives in a home with a securely fenced yard. They thrive in environments where they can use their natural instincts.

Drever care involves minimal grooming, a balanced diet appropriate for their activity level, and a living environment that accommodates their need for exploration.

Weekly brushing to remove loose hair; more frequent brushing during shedding seasons.

Only as needed, typically a few times a year.

Regular nail trims, usually every few weeks, to prevent overgrowth.

Check and clean ears regularly to prevent infections, especially since they are drop-eared.

High-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Two measured meals per day are recommended to avoid overfeeding.

Adaptable to various living situations, but access to a securely fenced yard is ideal.

Drevers are moderately easy to train, responding well to positive reinforcement, but their independent nature requires consistent effort. They need significant daily exercise to satisfy their hunting instincts.

Drevers are intelligent but can be stubborn due to their independent nature. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, work best. Consistency and patience are key to overcoming their occasional stubbornness. They excel in scent-based activities.

Drevers require a significant amount of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Long walks, runs, and opportunities to explore and follow scents are essential. A fenced yard is recommended, as their strong hunting instincts can lead them to wander. Mental stimulation, through games and puzzle toys, is also important.

Establish clear rules and stick to them consistently.

Use treats, praise, and positive interactions to motivate them.

Expose them to various people, dogs, and environments from a young age.

Engage their natural scenting abilities with games and activities.

Ensure your yard is securely fenced to prevent them from following scents and wandering off.

Drevers are generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions.

Due to their long backs, Drevers are susceptible to IVDD, which affects the spinal discs and can cause pain, nerve damage, and paralysis.

Their drop ears can trap moisture, leading to ear infections.

Drevers can gain weight easily if overfed and under-exercised.

The Drever's history begins in the early 20th century when Westphalian Dachsbrackes were imported to Sweden from Germany. These dogs were bred with other local hounds, resulting in a slightly larger and sturdier breed specifically adapted to Swedish terrain and hunting conditions. The Drever was officially recognized as a distinct breed in 1947 by the Swedish Kennel Club, and its name is derived from the Swedish word "drev," which refers to the hunting method of driving game towards the hunter. While primarily found in Scandinavia, the breed is gradually gaining recognition elsewhere for its hunting skills and amiable nature. There aren't notable singular historical events, but rather a continuous development focused on refining its hunting capabilities.

Yes, Drevers are generally good with children, especially when raised with them and properly socialized. Their even-tempered nature makes them suitable family pets.

Drevers are not excessive barkers, but they will bark to alert their owners to something unusual. Their barking is usually purposeful, not random.

Drevers need a significant amount of exercise daily, including long walks, runs, and opportunities to explore. At least 60-90 minutes of vigorous activity is recommended.

Drevers are moderately easy to train, responding well to positive reinforcement. However, their independent nature requires consistency and patience.

Drevers have a short, dense coat and shed moderately. Regular brushing helps manage shedding.

Drevers can adapt to apartment living if they receive sufficient daily exercise. However, they are better suited to homes with yards.

The average lifespan of a Drever is 12-15 years.

No, Drevers are not typically aggressive. They are known for their friendly and even-tempered nature.

No, Drevers have relatively low grooming needs. Weekly brushing is usually sufficient.

Drevers are relatively rare outside of Scandinavia. Check with breed-specific rescues or reputable breeders, primarily in Sweden and other Nordic countries. You may also find them through organizations specializing in scent hounds.