The Small Swiss Hound, also known as Schweizerischer Niederlaufhund, is a small-sized dog breed. This breed was produced when the Swiss Hound was crossed with Basset Hound. The Small Swiss Hound has a distinctive sense of smell and desire for trailing its prey.
It is one of the most lively dog breeds and proved as a great companion for people who are fitness freaks. It is a small-sized dog breed but comes in with the whole package. The Small Swiss Hounds are intelligent and friendly dogs but can sometimes get stubborn.
Small Swiss Hound History
In the 20th century, when hunting was trending in Switzerland, this breed was originated especially for hunting purposes. The Small Swiss Hound is known to do efficient hunting traits. The main purpose of producing this breed was to get a small-sized dog with the same variants as the Swiss Hound. The Small Swiss Hound has a sharp sense of smell and a melodious voice.
The people who used to go hunting on private grounds started keeping the Small Swiss Hound. As this dog breed has the ability to track its prey from miles away, the hunters were quite happy with this breed. In 2006 this bred got recognition by the United Kennel Club. The Small Swiss Hound became famous for hunting in Switzerland and native countries like US and Canada.
Small Swiss Hound Characteristics
The Small Swiss Hound has a unique appearance. It comes in four different colors, and each color is uniquely named. The Small Swiss Hound has a medium coat with tan markings. It is considered one of the compact, brave and faithful dog breeds. The Small Swiss Hound is an exceptionally intelligent and great learner. They have lively personality and is considered a great family dog. Although the Small Swiss Hound can sometimes get stubborn, firm training is always a solution.
How Big Do Small Swiss Hounds Get?
The Small Swiss Hound is a small-sized dog breed. It grows up to 13 to 17 inches tall for males and 13 to 16 inches for females. Similarly, it weighs about 18 to 33 pounds. It is one of the smallest breeds present among the hounds.
How Long Does A Small Swiss Hound Live?
The average life expectancy of a Small Swiss Hound is about ten to twelve years. Your pet’s lifespan depends upon the level of care and love it gets. You can surely increase the life expectancy of your pet if you take good care and provide healthy food. The Small Swiss Hound requires less maintenance than other dogs, so it is always easy to keep it.
How Much Does A Small Swiss Hound Cost?
The cost of a Small Swiss Hound lies between $2,500 and $3,500. The fixed price can’t be predicted as it depends from breeder to breeder. It may cost more when you buy an adult and trained Small Swiss Hound. Adopting a Small Swiss Hound is a better option as it will be cheaper comparatively. However, a Small Swiss Hound puppy is inexpensive, and its price falls somewhere between $800 to $1,000.
Small Swiss Hound Temperament/ Personality
The Small Swiss Hound is extremely steadfast and makes dense bonds with its owners. It is, however, extremely defensive about its place and individuals. A Small Swiss Hound is normally alert and intrusive about things and people. It is a high-energy dog and is always ready for fun. As it is a hunting dog, you can’t limit it to a smaller living space. Friendly, reliable and companionable are the right terms to explain the personality of the Small Swiss Hound. It has a calm and lovely temperament.
Caring For A Small Swiss Hound
A Small Swiss Hound is an easy-going dog breed. It is a low-maintenance dog breed. It requires less grooming than other delicate dogs. As the Small Swiss Hound is an active dog, daily physical activity such as running, chasing etc., will be required.
Being a rural dog, the Small Swiss Hound needs grass and trees. Make sure you take proper care of its diet and food intake so that your Small Swiss Hound doesn’t get sick. Give your Small Swiss Hound proper time and love, as it demands care and attention from its owner.
Small Swiss Hound Nutrition
To maintain the long-term health conditions of your Small Swiss Hound, make sure you feed it proper food. It is a small-sized dog and doesn’t require complex dog foods, mostly given to adult dogs. Feed your Small Swiss Hound two to three times a day and give high protein dog food to strengthen its muscles. Dog treats can be given to a Small Swiss Hound during training sessions. But beware of overfeeding as it can lead to other health complications.
How To Groom A Small Swiss Hound
The Small Swiss Hound has less undercoat and shreds less fur, and it doesn’t require a lot of grooming. Brushing the fur once a week will be sufficient. Brush your Small Swiss Hound daily and trim the coat during the coat shedding season with dog brush. Brush its teeth once a week using toothbrushes and toothpaste for dogs. Daily or weekly bathing is not required, but baths your Small Swiss Hound once a month. Clean their ear weekly with dog ear cleaner and keep the ears dirt-free and dry.
Small Swiss Hound Activity Level
It is an energetic dog that enjoys playtime. Hunting, running and playing are present in its genes. Take your Small Swiss Hound to walk every day, let it smell things coming in a way as it tries to differentiate scents. Chasing games can also be exciting for this dog breed. When left alone at home, give your Small Swiss Hound dog toys so that he doesn’t feel lonely. Please don’t go on the size of a Small Swiss Hound, it may seem small, but it requires plenty of exercises.
Small Swiss Hound Health
The Small Swiss Hound is generally a healthy dog breed. As it is a hunting dog, it is prone to field injuries. Ear infections are commonly seen in this breed. That’s why make sure you keep its ear clean and dry. Hip Dysplasia and obesity are other common health conditions found in this breed. OFA test of hip and elbow, X-Ray in case of injury and Physical examination every year is important to keep your Smalandsstovare health record.
Breeds Similar to Small Swiss Hound
- Miniature Aussiedoodle
- Aussalier
- Beagle
- Mini Kery Blue Schnauzer
- Wire Foxy Rat Terrier
- Posavaz hound
- Spanish Hound
Best Dog Food for Small Swiss Hounds
The best dog food for Small Swiss Hound is Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small Bites Chicken & Barley Recipe Dry Dog Food. This dog food is produced from a blend of barley and chicken. It contains a good amount of protein for stronger bones. Moreover, it is super easy to digest and is made without artificial ingredients such as colors, flavors, and preservatives.
- Equipped with vitamins and antioxidants for supporting immunity.
- Nourishes skin and coat through omega fatty acids and vitamin E.
- Supports easy digestion with high-quality fibers.
Best Puppy Food for Small Swiss Hounds
The best puppy food for Small Swiss Hound is Diamond Naturals Small Breed Puppy Formula Dry Dog Food. This puppy food is made of cage-free chicken as the first ingredient in the recipe. Moreover, it also contains whole foods that provide a healthy lifestyle to your pup.
- Equipped with antioxidants for improves overall health.
- Contains DHA that develops the brain and improves vision.
- Free from fillers and artificial ingredients.
Best Dog Crate for Small Swiss Hounds
The best dog crate for a Small Swiss Hound is the MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate. This dog crate has a two-door system that makes it extremely convenient and provides easy access, while its strong wires make it more secure.
- Comes with a divider panel for size adjustment.
- Easy operation with the fold-and-carry structure.
- Includes a removable plastic pan.
Best Dog Bed for Small Swiss Hounds
The best dog bed for Small Swiss Hound is FurHaven Ultra Plush Oval Bolster Cat & Dog Bed w/Removable Cover. This bed by FurHaven guarantees your dog gets a relaxing and cozy sleep with its nest-style bed.
- Features washable core and covers.
- The ultra-soft fabric delivers superior comfort.
- Contains pillow cushions filled with fiber.
Best Dog Harness for Small Swiss Hounds
The best dog harness for Small Swiss Hound is Best Pet Supplies Voyager Black Trim Mesh Dog Harness. This dog harness is made of breathable and insulating fabric. It is highly comfortable and strong.
- Hassle-free operation with the walk-in design.
- Long-lasting use with high-quality material.
- Includes D-rings for attaching a leash.
Recommended Reading:
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