Let's talk Schiller Hounds
Often referred to as “the hunting dog of the frozen land,” the Schiller Hound is an incredibly well-rounded and vibrant sporting breed. They are coveted not only for their ability to thrive in frigid temperatures, but also for their ease in harmonising effortlessly at home amongst their human family members. Schiller Hounds are working canines at their core and as a result, live their fullest life by spending ample amounts of time outdoors (they do not accommodate well to urban life). However, once their daily exercise needs have been met, these extremely loyal, even-tempered, and obedient dogs enjoy nothing more than bundling up next to you while you go about your day at home.
Official name: Schiller Hound
Other names: Schillerstövare
Origins: Sweden
| Drooling tendencies |  |
Warm weather? | |
| Shedding level |  |
Suited to apartment living? | |
| *Energy Level | moderate | *Friendly pet? |
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| Compatibility with other pets | |
*Can stay alone? |  |
* We advise against leaving pets alone for long stretches. Companionship can prevent emotional distress and destructive behavior. Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations.
Every pet is different, even within a breed; this snapshot of this breed specifics should be taken as an indication.
For a happy healthy and well-behaved pet, we recommend educating and socializing your pet as well as covering their basic welfare needs (and their social and behavioral needs).
Pets should never be left unsupervised with a child.
Contact your breeder or veterinarian for further advice.
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53 - 61 cm
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18 - 25 kg
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48 - 58 cm
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18 - 25 kg
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| Baby age | Birth to 2 months |
| Puppy age | 2 to 12 months |
| Adult age | 12 months to 7 years |
| Mature age | 7 to 10 years |
| Senior age | From 10 years |
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Get to know the Schiller Hound
All you need to know about the breed
Descendants of numerous Swedish, German and Swiss hounds, the Schiller Hound breed’s bloodline helps explain their calm, gentle, and obedient disposition, as well as their highly adept sporting skills. However, as efficient as they are in scenting abilities, they are equally as affectionate and docile in the home. The best way to ensure that indoor time is relaxing for all is to be sure you've burned off their masses of energy beforehand.
Indeed, the Schiller Hound makes for an exceptional family pet, given their vivacious spirit and extremely loyal attitude towards their human pack, including adults and children alike (once trained). Their extremely open and accepting nature also extends to other dogs. Just know that their prey drive makes it difficult to introduce them to any smaller household pets, even cats.
Their ability to quickly bond with their human family members is one of their best qualities, but this can sometimes translate into them needing quite a lot of attention. The breed has been known to be prone to mild canine 'separation anxiety' issues - they don't enjoy being alone. Some of this can be resolved with early training - though no dog should be left alone for long stretches of time.
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2 facts about Schiller Hounds
1. Quick on their feet
Energetic, tenacious, and efficient are just a few words to describe the incredible athleticism of the Schiller Hound. In fact, they are considered to be the fastest out of all of the Scandinavian hounds, widely celebrated for unparalleled speed and endurance.
2. Independent streak
Unlike many similar scent hounds from the Scandinavian region, the Schiller Hound breed is not used to working in a pack, or rather is more at ease running on their own. At times, this means that they can initially come off as a bit wary of other dogs. However, given their highly social and friendly demeanour, they will almost certainly warm up to them if correctly introduced!
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History of the breed
The Schiller Hound’s even-tempered nature and thoughtful-looking gaze can make you believe they have been around since the beginning of time. However, they are a relatively new breed developed in the late 1800s by Swedish farmer, Per Schiller (hence the breed’s name). Schiller used Swiss, German, and Swedish hounds, crossbreeding them with English Harriers to create the extremely hardy and speedy Schiller Hound we know today. After being first presented at the Swedish dog show in 1886, they were recognised by the Swedish Kennel Club in 1913.
Per Schiller succeeded in developing a dog that was not only known for their lightning-pace speed, but also for being particularly good for catching small animals. Most importantly, the Schiller Hound breed not only tolerated, but thrived in the harsh Swedish winters due to their coarse top coat, which protects them from icy weather conditions.
Despite all this, the Schiller Hound is seldom found outside of Sweden. The breed was accepted by the United Kennel Club as part of the scenthound group in 1996.
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From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Schiller Hounds
1. Head
Long, straight head with high-set, folded ears.
2. Body
Well-muscled, deep chest with lean legs and tapered tail.
3. Coat
Short, tan coat with a prominent black mantle.
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Things to look out for
From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Schiller Hound
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Caring for your Schiller Hound
Grooming, training and exercise tips
The Schiller Hound breed’s grooming needs are quite low given their short coat, which only needs a brushing now and then to keep it free of loose hairs and dirt. However, teeth should be cleaned daily and nails clipped as needed. It should be noted that as outdoor dogs, they often wear down their nails during exercise. Those classic hound dog ears need to be checked frequently for any signs of dirt or wax build-up to avoid the risk of ear infection. In order to enjoy the Schiller Hound’s naturally quiet temperament, they must be able to sufficiently release any pent up energy; they do need regular exercise and a decent amount of it. It is important to note that if they are let off leash, it should be done in a safely enclosed space - if they detect an interesting scent, they will instinctively run after it. The Schiller Hound has excellent stamina and focused working abilities, so as long as you are patient and consistent with training early on, they should be quick to follow commands. Take any treats used as rewards out of daily rations to help keep your dog trim.
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All about Schiller Hounds
They aren’t known to be. While they might have a slight protective streak, meaning they would let out a bark if caught off guard, they do not possess the territorial behaviour that would allow them to act as a guard dog. While they might initially be wary of unfamiliar faces, they will eventually warm up to new people once put at ease.
Although Schiller Hounds are not used to working in packs with other dogs, they do usually get on well with them if presented the opportunity. While Schiller Hounds assimilate gracefully into most family environments, their prey tendencies make it difficult to introduce them to any smaller household pets, including cats, rabbits, or rodents.
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Read more on this topic
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Things to consider before getting a dog
Sources
1 - Veterinary Centers of America https://vcahospitals.com/
2 - Royal Canin Dog Encyclopaedia. Ed 2010 and 2020
3 - Banfield Pet Hospital https://www.banfield.com/
4 - Royal Canin BHN Product Book
5 - American Kennel Club https://www.akc.org/