Drever

The Drever is a determined and loyal breed developed in Sweden for serious fieldwork. Descended from the small sized German hound known as the Westphalian Dachsbracke, it evolved into a sturdy medium sized breed built for endurance and precision. Though compact in stature, it carries the confidence and focus of a much larger hunting dog.

Originally prized for hunting roe deer and hunting hare, the Drever’s long body and short legs allow it to maneuver through dense cover and track game methodically. Its powerful nose and steady pace make it especially effective in challenging terrain. Unlike flashier hounds, the Drever works with persistence rather than speed.

At home, this is an affectionate and loyal breed that bonds closely with its people. Its cheerful nature and constant wagging tail make it a charming companion dog, though its loud voice and fondness for digging reflect its working roots. Early training and structured activity help channel its natural instincts productively.

The Drever thrives in active households. Long daily walks, outdoor adventures, and opportunities to work scent trails are essential. While adaptable to different living situations, it does best with space to move and consistent engagement. Many owners also enjoy introducing the breed to canine sports that tap into its intelligence and drive.

Grooming is simple and practical. The short, weather-resistant coat requires only occasional brushing, and mud typically brushes off once dry. Low-maintenance care combined with strong work ethic and loyalty makes the Drever a compelling choice for hunters and active families alike.

Drever Dog Breed Guide: Traits, Temperament, And Care Tips

The Drever is a compact yet determined scenthound developed for serious work. Bred in Sweden to track and drive game through dense forests and rugged terrain, this low-slung hunter combines stamina, focus, and relentless scenting ability. Though modest in size, the Drever was built with one clear purpose: steady, methodical pursuit. The Drever is also valued as a versatile companion dog, known for its friendly, sociable nature and suitability for family life in addition to its hunting skills.

Unlike flashier sporting breeds, the Drever earns respect through grit and dependability. Its strong nose, muscular frame, and calm confidence make it especially effective on roe deer and hare, and it has also been historically used for hunting fox. Adapted to Swedish terrain, the Drever excels at hunting hare and roe deer, demonstrating its effectiveness in the challenging landscapes of Sweden.

Today, the Drever remains primarily a working dog, prized by hunters who value reliability over hype. Originating as a German hound, the Drever shares its heritage with the Westphalian Dachsbracke, reflecting its strong hunting roots in Germany. For the right owner—particularly those who appreciate traditional scenthounds—this loyal breed offers toughness, forms strong bonds with its family, and carries a deep-rooted hunting heritage that has stood the test of time.

Key Takeaways

• Drever is a Swedish short-legged scenthound descended from Westphalian Dachsbracke, registered 1913, named 1947, and accepted into AKC FSS February 2015.
• They stand 12–15 inches, weigh about 31–40 pounds, live 12–15 years, and have a long, low body built for scent work.
• Drevers risk CDDY/IVDD; a 2005 Swedish study (Egenvall et al.) found 45% died by age 10, so get breeder genetic tests and vet imaging.
• They need daily exercise plus 30–60 minutes of focused training and scent work, using reward-based methods to channel hunting drive and prevent boredom.
• Groom weekly with brushing and occasional baths, and feed a high-quality diet—about 800 kcal/day for puppies and 1,200 kcal/day for adults.

History and Origin

German Roots and Arrival in Sweden

The Drever descends from the Westphalian Dachsbracke, a small sized German hound known as a Bracke. These German hounds were imported to Sweden around 1910 by Swedish hunters to improve their ability to track and drive game in Scandinavia’s demanding terrain. The Drever’s heritage as a German hound is reflected in its strong nose, steady pace, and durable build, making it well suited for Sweden’s forests and rocky countryside.

Official registration in Sweden began in 1913, and selective breeding gradually shaped a slightly larger and more robust type than its German ancestor.

Development as a Distinct Swedish Breed

By the 1940s, two size variations had emerged within the developing population. Swedish breeders refined the type into a short-legged, medium sized breed of hunting dog capable of working long hours in rough conditions. Unlike taller hounds, the Drever’s lower stature allowed it to move methodically through dense cover while maintaining a steady scent trail.

In 1947, a public naming contest selected the name “Drever,” derived from the Swedish word drev, meaning “to drive game.” That same year, the Swedish Kennel Club officially recognized the breed, solidifying its status as a distinct Swedish hound.

Recognition and International Expansion

The Swedish Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1947, and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale placed it in Group 6. Canadian Kennel Club recognition followed in 1956, the United Kennel Club added the Drever in 1996, and the American Kennel Club accepted it into the AKC Foundation Stock Service in February 2015.

Despite international recognition, the Drever remains relatively rare outside hunting communities.

Purpose-Bred for Nordic Hunting

Hunters developed the Drever specifically for pursuing roe deer and hare across Sweden’s rugged landscape. The breed is particularly popular among Swedish hunters and is considered essential for hunting roebuck (roe deer). Its well-developed muscles, endurance, and powerful scenting ability allow it to methodically drive game toward hunters. The Drever is often referred to as a ‘hunting-machine’ due to its exceptional hunting ability. It is highly effective in hunting hare and fox, and its physical characteristics are tailored for small game tracking in Swedish terrain. The breed’s compact frame combines agility with strength, making it particularly effective in dense forests and uneven terrain.

Unlike many modern breeds, the Drever has remained primarily a working dog. No individual Drever has achieved widespread fame in show rings or popular culture. Instead, the breed’s reputation rests on its reliability, persistence, and enduring value as a dedicated Nordic hunting hound.

Physical Characteristics

The Drever is low to the ground, long in body, and built with purpose. Its sturdy frame, strong bone, and well-developed muscles reflect a dog engineered for endurance rather than speed. Short, powerful legs drive it steadily through dense cover, while a deep chest supports the stamina required for long tracking sessions. As a short legged dog, the Drever stands out among scent hounds for its unique build, which is ideal for tracking and driving game. Drevers are characterized by their long, low body, short legs, and a distinctive, expressive face with dark eyes and floppy ears.

The head is clean and alert, with a confident expression and dark, watchful eyes. Long, pendulous ears frame the face and enhance scenting ability. Its tail is carried proudly, often wagging with determination when on a trail.

The coat is short, dense, and weather-resistant, lying close to the body for practical protection in rough terrain. Overall, the Drever projects compact strength and relentless focus—a hound designed to track with persistence and authority.

Body and Structure

Drevers stand 12 to 15 inches at the shoulder and weigh 31 to 35 pounds. The breed’s maximum height is 38 cm, 15 inches at the withers. They have a long, low body with short legs, about 15 cm, six inches shorter than similar-bodied long-legged hounds.

That shape gives a robust, strong physique with well-developed muscles and an agile appearance.

Breed standards highlight a strong, muscular, and sturdy frame, with a proud, steady carriage rather than elegance or speed. They carry a long tail and drop ears. Hunters find the build excellent for hunting in rough terrain and for scent work in the scenthound group.

The Kennel Club and the Australian National Kennel Council list this standard, linked to the westphalian dachsbrackes line. Drevers do well with other dogs and other pets when owners give proper training and early socialization from a young age.

Face and Expression

A Drever shows a robust and strong expression rather than an elegant appearance. Drop ears and well-developed facial muscles give an alert, calm look and support the proud carriage that marks the breed.

Facial features fit scent work and alertness and help in agility and obedience tasks tied to their role as determined hunters. White coloring appears on the tail tip, feet, chest, neck, and face.

The expression signals tenacity and friendliness, and the dog stays welcoming but can be reserved with strangers and other animals.

Coat and Color

Owners find the coat short and coarse, with coarse hair that is hard and close-lying. Drevers have a short, hard, and close-lying coat that can be of any color in combination with white trimmings, except for all white or liver brown. The coat forms a double layer that sheds moderately. Most Drevers have a short, thick coat that requires minimal grooming, needing only a weekly brushing, though the breed can show wiry, smooth, rough, or curly textures, with most coats staying short to medium.

Standard colors include tri-color, red and white, and fawn and white, with codes Fawn (082), Brindle (057), Red (140), Tri-Colored (380). Recognized markings list Sable (026), White Markings (014), and Sable with White Markings (067).

Breed standards require white on the tail tip, all four feet, chest, neck, and face. Monthly grooming and brushing keep the coat healthy, and the dog acts as a wash-n-wear pet needing only an occasional bath.

Breeders list the Drever as a rare, purebred dog breed, not as common as the labrador retriever among most popular breeds.

Movement and Gait

Drevers move with agile, energetic steps that suit hunting and outdoor work. Their strong, steady gait helps them track game through rough terrain. A low, long body adds stability and agility during hunts.

The movement stays robust and functional rather than elegant, and it fits slow, persistent hunting in snow and rough landscapes.

That gait gives stamina for walking, hiking, and scent work. Daily exercise keeps their muscles moving and helps them stay healthy. Active homes suit these dogs; they make great companions for people who like long walks and play.

Watch for health problems; puppies and adults can be prone to spinal discs issues, a risk seen in dachshunds and some lines. Drever is still a rare breed in many places, though some lines were once crossbred with pampas deerhound.

Many breeders now keep purebred dogs in a registry and have officially named their lines. Feed balanced dog food and use an activity tracker or a simple movement assessment to monitor fitness.

Temperament and Behavior

They are playful, affectionate, and loyal, and show a strong love for their people. Highly skilled hunters by nature, they become calm and friendly inside the family after solid training.

Owners report an even temper, mixed with stubbornness during training sessions. Drevers can be a little shy around strangers, but usually mix well with other dogs.

Puppy socialization and early obedience build confidence and good manners. They bark at passersby, birds, and new situations and serve as alert, determined watchdogs. They fit well with other dogs and adapt to changes in routine, weather, and living conditions.

Owners should use positive reinforcement tools like a lead, container, marker, treats, and praise to curb stubborn behavior and channel hunting drive.

Health Considerations

Drevers live about 12 to 15 years and usually weigh 31 to 40 pounds. Genetic conditions like chondrodystrophy, CDDY, and intervertebral disc disease, IVDD, pose real risks. A study found 45 percent of Drevers died by age 10, a rate higher than the average dog mortality.

Veterinarians use genetic testing, radiograph images, magnetic resonance imaging, and blood tests to monitor spine and joint health.

Owners must feed a high-quality diet that matches age, activity level, and health needs. Daily exercise and mental stimulation keep weight down and help protect the spine. Use an activity tracker and structured walks to keep exercise steady and safe.

Seek an orthopedic exam at any sign of back pain or sudden gait change.

Common Concerns

This breed faces specific health and behavior risks. They remain generally healthy with proper care, and owners can lower risks with screening, exercise, and early social training.

1. Chondrodystrophy, called CDDY, and intervertebral disc disease, IVDD, can cause severe spinal pain and mobility loss. Ask breeders for genetic testing results and schedule veterinary imaging for pups at risk before you buy.
2. Hip dysplasia shows as limping, stiffness, or reduced activity. Get an orthopedic check and hip evaluation during regular veterinary check-ups to catch problems early and manage weight and joint care.
3. Ear infections rank high because long, moist ears trap bacteria. Clean ears weekly, dry after swims, and report odor or head shaking to your veterinarian right away to prevent chronic issues.
4. Regular exercise preserves joint health and prevents boredom that leads to bad behavior. Aim for daily walks, scent work, and play; adapt intensity as the dog ages and according to breed needs.
5. Weekly brushing controls shedding and limits skin irritation. Low-maintenance coat care cuts the risk of severe matting, and quick inspections help catch hotspots and skin infections early.
6. Socialization from puppyhood shapes long-term health and behavior. Enroll in puppy socialization classes, expose pups to varied people and safe animals, and hire a behavior trainer if fear or aggression appears.
7. Breed and age show strong links to personality traits and health outcomes. Track behavior and health changes, update care plans, and increase vet visits for senior dogs to manage chronic conditions.
8. Prioritize health, temperament, and well-being over looks in breeding choices. Request health certificates, proof of genetic testing, and clear statements on CDDY and IVDD from any prospective breeder.

Lifespan

Drevers live on average 12 to 14 years. A 2005 Swedish study by Egenvall et al., published in Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica, reported 45 percent of Drevers died by age 10. It compared with 35 percent mortality for all dogs at age 10.

Strong breed genetics give the Drever a generally healthy profile. Responsible ownership that includes health screening, balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and routine vet care improves chances of reaching 15 years.

Training Considerations

Owners must expect high trainability and occasional stubbornness rooted in strong hunting instincts. Obedience training remains essential for effective management and safety. Start lessons early.

Keep them consistent and use reward-based methods with positive reinforcement. Puppies respond best when training starts young. Scent-driven focus can pull attention away. Use specialized scent work drills and short, varied sessions.

Employ operant conditioning tools like a marker device, a sturdy lead, and a crate for structure and clear cues.

Schedule daily exercise and mental tasks, aiming for 30 to 60 minutes of focus work plus free play. Mix scent games with simple obedience drills to channel nose work into control. Try outdoor sports like Barn Hunting, Rally, and Agility to keep the dog engaged.

Enroll in an obedience class or hire a trainer who uses positive reinforcement and scent work methods. Early socialization during puppyhood improves focus and builds sociability around other dogs.

Keep sessions short and fun. Reward progress and raise difficulty slowly to prevent frustration.

Exercise and Socialization

Drevers need stimulating daily activity to stay healthy and happy. Activities may include walking, biking, hiking, scent work, Barn Hunting, and Lure Coursing. Participation in canine sports such as agility can provide both physical exercise and mental stimulation for Drevers. Dogs exercising over three hours daily demonstrate higher training focus.

Younger Drevers have higher energy, while older ones show better focus.

Early socialization links to reduced insecurity, lower aggression, and improved sociability. Puppies left alone for over eight hours show lower training focus and sociability. Physical activity helps prevent unwanted behaviors and keeps weight and joints healthy.

Use a leash, a clicker, a tracking collar, group obedience class, or dog sports and hobbies to build focus and social skills.

Living with a Drever

Expect a high energy level and daily walks. A steady exercise plan, puzzle toys, and off-leash area time keep them calm. Families find them great companions.

Supervise interactions with children and other dogs to prevent rough play. A sound marker, training treats, and safe den work well for training and reward. Adaptable to apartments or farms, they still need mental tasks and praise for eagerness to please.

Best Environment

Drevers thrive in varied living situations. They adapt to changes in routine, weather, and environment. A balanced daily routine that includes outdoor walks and play keeps them happy.

Access to an enclosed outdoor area for walking, running, and play suits their needs.

Owners can meet needs in both urban and rural homes if exercise goals are met. Owner motivations and dog hobbies shape how Drevers behave around tasks and play. Early socialization shapes long-term personality and manners.

Provide physical and mental challenges like training games, puzzle toys, dog sports, and lead walks.

Behavior towards Children

They show strong affection to family members. Most remain good around young children when supervised. Playful energy makes them a fun companion for kids. Owners should watch interactions to protect both child and dog.

Early socialization boosts confidence and improves behavior around kids. Moderate size and an even temper keep them manageable for families. They enjoy fetch and tug of war with children.

Positive childhood play helps long term sociability throughout life. They adapt well to households that include children. Use positive reinforcement and puppy socialization classes to teach gentle play.

Try a training clicker or a long line during supervised games.

Behavior towards other Pets

Drevers fit well with other dogs after early socialization. An even temperament helps positive interactions in multi-pet homes. Playful energy may spark group play and keep dogs engaged.

Supervise all first meetings, especially with small animals. The breed’s hunting background may drive chase instincts toward rodents, cats, and other small pets. Start early exposure to boost confidence and cut unwanted behaviors.

Use socialization, positive reinforcement, a leash for controlled introductions, and a crate as a calm retreat. Keep training and socialization steady to maintain calm interactions in multi-pet homes.

Grooming Needs

Their short, coarse coat needs weekly brushing.

Moderate shedding is typical, so schedule monthly grooming to manage loose hair and keep the coat healthy.

Occasional baths suffice because the breed has a wash-n-wear coat.

Keep a brush, a comb, gentle cleanser, nail clippers, ear solution, and a dog toothbrush in a basic grooming kit.

Trim nails regularly, check ears often, and brush teeth to prevent hygiene problems.

The coat rarely mats, which reduces grooming time and complication risk.

Grooming-related issues account for about 4 to 6 percent of veterinary cases in various programs.

Lower-income households often groom at home due to financial constraints, and owners need better education on proper methods.

Nutrition and Feeding

Feed a balanced, breed-specific diet that matches life stage, size, and activity level. Puppies need about 800 kcal per day. Adult Drevers need about 1,200 kcal daily. Include high-quality protein, healthy fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals in every meal.

Offer chicken, fresh meat, fish, fruits, and vegetables as main options. Avoid chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, avocados, and alcohol. Keep clean, fresh water available at all times.

Use a weighing scale or measurement cup to portion food, or try a timed feeder for busy days. Expect monthly food costs of about 1,200 to 1,800 in local currency. Discuss the feeding plan with your veterinarian or breeder to set the best regimen and to adjust calories as activity changes.

Where to find a Drever

Find Drever puppies on the AKC Marketplace, where all listed pups are 100% AKC-registered. The American Kennel Club links buyers with local breeders and provides puppy search support.

Breeder programs often send new owners puppy folders with care guides and health records. Contact the American Drever Association or the Swedish Drever Club for breed standards, club links, and rescue listings.

You can also search animal rescue organizations and national club pages for adult Drever adoption leads. AKC resources cover responsible dog breeding and ownership readiness. AKC registration services accept mixed breeds and imports, and they support breeder education with expert webinars and DNA health testing programs.

Similar Dog Breeds

The Drever shares key traits with several other scenthounds known for endurance, tracking drive, and pack instincts. The breeds below highlight similar working styles while showcasing differences in size, terrain preference, and overall purpose.

Conclusion

You learned Drever traits, temperament, grooming, feeding, and training. This guide covers exercise, socialization, health screening, and vet care. Use a lead, a grooming tool, and a training device to keep care simple.

Will you try daily walks, reward training, or group play this week? Proper routines cut problem behaviors and boost health and family bonds. Conclusion: start today and build a loyal, well trained companion.

FAQs

1. What traits define the Drever dog breed?

The Drever dog breed is a short, sturdy tracking hound. It has a strong nose and slow, steady pace. It shows calm energy and good stamina. These traits make it good for scent work and family life.

2. How is the Drever temperament with family and other animals?

The Drever has a friendly, even temperament. It bonds with family and adapts to home life. Early socialization stops fear and teaches good manners. The breed may chase small animals, so watch pets and use training.

3. What care tips keep a Drever healthy?

Give daily walks and scent games for exercise. Brush the short coat once a week and check ears for wax. Feed measured meals to avoid weight gain. Schedule regular vet visits for vaccinations and dental care.

4. How should owners train a Drever for home and field work?

Use short, positive training sessions and clear rules. Start early with socialization and leash work. Add scent games to channel the tracking instinct. If the dog pulls, use a front-clip harness and firm, calm corrections. These steps help with both house manners and field work.

References

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drever
2. https://www.wisdompanel.com/en-us/dog-breeds/drever
3. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/drever/
4. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11011023/
5. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10165416/
6. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11429495/
7. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/271826897_Dog_Breeds_and_Their_Behavior
8. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8907591/
9. https://www.happypet.care/dog-breeds/drever (2025-05-15)
10. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11718627/