Longevity
Life expectancy
Its life expectancy is generally between 12 and 15 years, which is a good longevity for a scenthound of this size. This lifespan depends in particular on the quality of the diet, maintaining a stable weight, daily exercise, and the prevention of injuries related to outdoor activities.
Build
A robust breed?
Its robust build and its adaptation to outdoor activities make it an enduring dog. However, it remains important to monitor the condition of the ears, paw pads, claws and teeth, especially in an active subject that often moves around in natural terrain.
Watch points
What to watch for
In the absence of a clearly identified major hereditary condition, vigilance focuses mainly on routine care and on minor traumas or irritations linked to hunting and outings in nature. Regular attention to the ears, interdigital spaces, weight and recovery after exertion helps keep the dog in good health.
Hip dysplasia : Like many dogs, the Småland Hound may have a joint malformation that promotes pain and osteoarthritis, especially in cases of overweight.
Eye conditions : An ophthalmological examination of breeding dogs and monitoring tearing or vision remain useful.
Otitis and skin allergies : Itching, redness, or dirty ears must be checked, especially if the dog works in dense cover.
Climate
Cold and heat tolerance
The Småland Hound tolerates cold well thanks to its double, dense coat. It tolerates a temperate climate fairly well, but must be protected from strong heat and extreme situations, especially during prolonged exertion in summer.
Weight
Tendency to gain weight
The breed is not known for a strong tendency to become overweight, but an intake that is too rich compared to activity can cause weight to increase. It is preferable to adjust rations according to the season, the intensity of outings and age, while maintaining an athletic silhouette and a well-defined waist.
Daily life
Good habits to keep it healthy
- Check and clean the ears regularly.
- Inspect the paw pads and the interdigital spaces after outings.
- Maintain regular dental and nail care.
- Adjust activity and hydration during hot periods.
Vaccination
Småland Hound vaccines: vaccination schedule
Which vaccines for a Småland Hound? Like all cats, the Småland Hound receives essential vaccines from 8 weeks old: Typhus (panleukopenia) and Coryza. The kitten primary vaccination for Småland Hound is given in several injections 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year, even if it lives in an apartment. Depending on its lifestyle (outdoor access, multi-cat household, shows, travel), your veterinarian may complete the protocol with vaccines against Feline leukemia (FeLV), Rabies and Chlamydiosis.
| Vaccine | Primary series | First booster | Then | Who for? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Typhus (panleukopenia)Core Feline panleukopenia (cat parvovirus) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
CoryzaCore Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
Feline leukemia (FeLV)Lifestyle-based Feline leukemia virus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Outdoor cats, cats living in a group or in a cattery |
RabiesLifestyle-based Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, cat shows and most boarding kennels |
ChlamydiosisLifestyle-based Chlamydia felis (contagious conjunctivitis) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Cats living in groups, catteries, show cats |
Adult Småland Hound vaccine boosters are annual for cat flu and leukemia if it goes outdoors; for panleukopenia, a booster every three years is often sufficient after the first booster. Your veterinarian will adjust the schedule to your cat’s lifestyle.
Which boosters for your Småland Hound?
Enter your companion’s age: we list the vaccines to do now and the next boosters.
Adopting well
Adopting a healthy Småland Hound
A standard veterinary follow-up with an annual examination, oral and dental monitoring, weight control and ear checks is often sufficient for this hardy dog. For a hunting or very active subject, examination of the paw pads, claws and locomotor system is useful after periods of intense work.
This information is provided for guidance only and does not replace a veterinarian’s advice. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, consult a professional.
