Thought to be the oldest scent hound breed native to Sweden, it was first recognized by the Swedish Kennel Club in 1921.

During the time of the Swedish Empire a number of wars were fought, with soldiers returning to their native country bringing a variety of hound breeds with them.

During this initial period the Smålandsstövare came in a variety of colors, sizes and lengths of tail with selective breeding not being put into practice until the 19th century.

[4] Currently on average around sixty puppies a year are registered with the Swedish Kennel Club,[2] and the breed is therefore considered rare.

[1] Outside of Sweden, it is recognized by the American Rare Breed Association,[5] Continental Kennel Club,[6] and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale.

[1] They have a medium length top coat with a shorter, dense undercoat; longer hair grows on the fringed tail and thighs.

It is the smallest of the Swedish hounds,[8] on average they measure between 16–21 inches (41–53 cm) at the withers with males being slightly larger than females.

[1] The facial features include wide nostrils on a black nose, the jaw closes in a scissors bite and the eyes are typically dark brown.

[1] A popular Swedish hunting dog, members of the breed can form strong attachments to their master; but are also seen as household pets due to their gentle and protective nature.