Drever
A compact Swedish scenthound designed to push deer toward hunters through dense Scandinavian forest — methodical, persistent, and low to the ground. Calm and even-tempered at home with a notably long lifespan for a working hound. That scent drive is real, so any fence needs to be solid, or you'll be chasing them down the road.
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The Drever is a rare but rock-solid little hound from Sweden, originally bred to drive deer toward hunters through dense Scandinavian forests. Don’t let its modest size. 12 to 15 inches tall and usually under 40 pounds, fool you.
This dog was built for endurance, with a nose like a bloodhound and a determination that won’t quit. It’s part of the AKC’s Foundation Stock Service, which means it’s not fully recognized yet in the U.S, so finding a reputable breeder takes extra legwork. And you should, because cutting corners here can mean serious health headaches down the road.
In real life, a Drever is loyal, steady, and surprisingly easygoing indoors, once you’ve burned off that 4-out-of-5 energy level. They need long, purposeful walks or off-leash hikes daily, ideally with some sniffing and tracking built in. Let them follow a trail in the woods and you’ll see why they were bred for work.
They bark, a lot, especially when on a scent, so if your neighbors are thin-walled or thin-skinned, this isn’t the dog for you. They’re fantastic with kids, scoring a solid 5/5, and their trainability is equally high. They want to please, respond well to consistency, and pick up commands fast.
Grooming isn’t a nightmare. Their short coat sheds moderately, so a weekly brush and the occasional wipe-down after muddy adventures will do. But their long ears need regular checking, ear infections are a real risk.
Watch their weight too. At 35 to 40 pounds, they’re not big, but they’ll pack on pounds if you’re not careful, which worsens their predisposition to hip dysplasia and intervertebral disc disease. They thrive with hunters, active families in colder climates, or anyone into scent work or tracking trials.
But they’re not for apartment living, homes with short fences, this dog will follow a scent over or through anything, or anyone needing a quiet companion. Here’s the thing most breed summaries won’t tell you: the Drever isn’t just a working dog with a job. It’s a dog that needs a mission.
Give it puzzles, nose games, or structured outdoor tasks, and it’s calm and content. Skip that, and you’ll get a loud, stubborn, fence-testing nuisance. This isn’t a couch ornament.
It’s a compact hound with a hunter’s soul, and it shows.
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Common questions
How long do Drevers live?
Drevers typically live around 15 years, which is quite long for a working hound of their size. Their lifespan reflects their sturdy build and overall hardiness when properly cared for.
How much does a Drever puppy cost?
A Drever puppy usually costs between $1,000 and $2,500, with most averaging around $1,800. Prices vary based on breeder reputation, bloodline, and location.
How much do Drevers shed?
Drevers shed moderately throughout the year. You'll notice some fur around the house, but regular brushing keeps it under control without much effort.
What colors do Drevers come in?
Drevers come in white with tan, red, black, or tricolor markings. Their coat patterns are typically bold and well-defined, giving them a classic hound dog look.
How big do Drevers get?
Drevers stand between 12 and 15 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 35 to 40 pounds. They're compact and sturdy, built for maneuvering through dense forest underbrush.
Are Drevers smart?
Yes, Drevers are very intelligent, especially when it comes to problem-solving and scent work. Their trainability is high, and they learn new commands quickly with consistent methods.
Are Drevers hypoallergenic?
No, Drevers are not hypoallergenic. They have a double coat that sheds and can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.
Are Drevers aggressive?
No, Drevers are not aggressive. They're loyal and even-tempered, with a friendly demeanor toward people and other dogs when properly socialized.
What health problems are common in Drevers?
Common health issues include ear infections, hip dysplasia, obesity, intervertebral disc disease, and certain eye conditions. Regular vet checkups and responsible breeding help reduce risks.
Do Drevers bark a lot?
Yes, Drevers bark frequently, especially when stimulated or on a scent trail. Their high barking tendency means they're not ideal for noise-sensitive environments.
Are Drevers easy to train?
Yes, Drevers are very easy to train thanks to their high intelligence and strong desire to work with their handler. They respond well to positive reinforcement and consistency.
Are Drevers good family dogs?
Yes, Drevers make excellent family dogs. They're very good with young children, get along well with other dogs, and are loyal and affectionate with their people.
Are Drevers good with cats?
Drevers can live with cats, especially if raised together, but their strong prey drive means they may chase unfamiliar cats. Supervision and early socialization are important.
Are Drevers good hunting dogs?
Yes, Drevers were specifically bred to drive deer through dense forests in Scandinavia. They're persistent, focused, and excel at scent-based hunting tasks in rugged terrain.
Can Drevers live in apartments?
No, Drevers are not well-suited for apartment living. They need space to move, strong fencing, and regular outdoor activity to stay happy and out of trouble.
Do Drevers need a lot of mental stimulation?
Drevers need moderate mental stimulation. While they're not as demanding as some high-drive breeds, they thrive on scent games, training, and structured outdoor work.
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