The Drever is a small-sized dog native to the Scandinavian Peninsula, relatively unknown in Italy. Let’s learn more about this breed.
The Drever is a dachshund-like dog with an endearing face and a sweet yet lively personality. Rarely found in Italy, it is typical of Scandinavian countries and deserves to be recognized and appreciated for all its qualities.
Origins of the Swedish Dachsbracke
The Drever, also known as the Swedish Dachsbracke, is a breed commonly found in Northern Europe. It is typically used for hunting foxes, hares, and boars. Its role as a hunting dog enables it to tolerate cold weather well while also moving effortlessly through snow.
The origins of the Swedish Dachshund are unclear and shrouded in legend, with two main theories. The first suggests that the Drever has been present in Scandinavia for centuries. The second indicates that this hound appeared in the region only in the early 20th century through selective breeding. The aim was to create a hunting dog for small game by crossing compact dachshunds with hounds known for their keen sense of smell and endurance. Some also believe that the Drever was introduced in the late 19th century by crossing local dogs with typical hound traits.
The breed was officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) only in 1953. From the 1970s onward, it crossed Scandinavian borders, gaining popularity abroad as a companion dog thanks to its lively character.
Physical Characteristics
The Drever, descended from the dachshund, is medium-sized with a robust and well-proportioned build. Its medium-length coat is dense, offering protection from cold weather and harsh conditions, and comes in colors ranging from red and fawn to black. Its well-proportioned legs make it agile and capable of moving across varied terrains.
The Drever’s Sweet Temperament
Primarily used for hunting small game, the Drever stands out for its highly developed sense of smell and quick reflexes, enabling it to catch prey in seconds. However, it is also beloved for its great intelligence, which allows it to learn and respond to commands easily.
The Drever is famous for its cheerful and sociable nature. It is affectionate and bonds deeply with its owner or family, adopting a protective attitude. In addition to being loyal, it enjoys being surrounded by people, displaying a balanced and happy demeanor. Its history as a hunting dog makes it inclined to prefer outdoor life, thriving in nature where it can run and play freely.
A Balanced Diet is Essential
Like all dogs, the Drever requires a balanced diet, though it has a preference for meat—a legacy of its hunting instincts. Given its active nature as a hunting or highly mobile dog, its diet needs to be more calorie-rich during periods of high energy expenditure.
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