Longevity
Life expectancy
With a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years, the Drever is one of the dogs that can accompany their family for a long time when their lifestyle remains regular. Prevention, maintaining good body condition and moderate activity play an important role in this longevity.
Constitution
Is this a robust breed?
The Drever shows good overall robustness. Its solid build is an asset, but its elongated format requires staying attentive to the back, the joints and to excess weight which can increase certain sensitivities.
Things to watch for
What to look out for
The health vigilance of the Drever relies mainly on preventing back problems, monitoring the drooping ears, and controlling weight. Regular observation after outings and routine veterinary follow-up make it possible to intervene early in case of discomfort or an abnormal sign.
Entropion: a misposition of the eyelid can irritate the eye and require veterinary care.
Herniated disc: its elongated body requires particular vigilance regarding back pain and disc disorders.
Obesity: a diet that is too rich or a lack of activity promote weight gain, with an impact on the back and joints.
Otitis: its drooping ears require regular monitoring to limit moisture and inflammation of the ear canal.
Climate
Tolerance to cold and heat
The Drever tolerates heat and intense cold moderately. It is advisable to adapt the duration and intensity of outings according to the weather, with particular attention during hot and humid periods.
Weight
Prone to weight gain
The Drever can gain weight if its diet is not adjusted to its activity. It is helpful to measure portions, limit treats, and maintain regular walks to preserve its figure and reduce pressure on the back and joints.
Everyday care
Good habits to keep your pet healthy
- Regularly check the condition of the ears after outings.
- Maintain a stable weight to protect the back and joints.
- Consult promptly in case of back pain or reduced mobility.
- Ensure regular veterinary follow-up throughout life.
Vaccination
Drever vaccinations: schedule
Which vaccines does a Drever need? Like all dogs, Drevers should receive their core vaccines from 8 weeks of age: CHPPi (core vaccine) and Leptospirosis. Puppies receive their initial Drever vaccinations in several shots spaced 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year. Depending on their lifestyle (hunting, hiking, boarding, travel, region), your veterinarian may add vaccines against Rabies, Kennel cough, Piroplasmosis, Lyme disease and Leishmaniasis.
| Vaccine | Primary vaccination | First booster | Then | For whom? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
CHPPi (core vaccine)Core Distemper, Rubarth hepatitis, parvovirosis and parainfluenza | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All animals |
LeptospirosisCore Leptospirosis (bacterium transmitted by rodent urine and stagnant water) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | All animals |
RabiesDepending on lifestyle Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, categorized dogs, most boarding kennels and shows |
Kennel coughDepending on lifestyle Bordetella bronchiseptica and parainfluenza | 8 weeks | 1 year | every year | Dogs attending boarding kennels, daycares, dog clubs and shows |
PiroplasmosisDepending on lifestyle Tick-borne babesiosis | 5 months · 6 months | 1 year | every year | Hunting dogs, dogs living in rural or wooded areas, dogs highly exposed to ticks |
Lyme diseaseDepending on lifestyle Tick-borne borreliosis | 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | Hiking dogs, hunting dogs, forest areas of the East and the Center |
LeishmaniasisDepending on lifestyle Leishmaniasis transmitted by sandflies | 6 months | 1 year and 6 months | every year | Dogs living or staying in the South of France, Corsica and the Mediterranean basin |
Adult Drever booster shots are given annually for leptospirosis and rabies. For distemper, hepatitis, and parvovirus, a booster every three years is often enough after the first booster. Your veterinarian will tailor the schedule to your dog's actual risk.
Which boosters does your Drever need?
Enter your companion's age to see which vaccines are due now and when the next boosters are needed.
Choosing well
Adopting a healthy Drever
A regular clinical examination, locomotor monitoring and ear checks are particularly useful in this breed. In the event of back discomfort, reduced activity or pain, a prompt consultation is recommended.
This information is for guidance only and doesn't replace advice from a veterinarian. If you have any concerns about your pet's health, consult a professional.
