Hound Dogs
Drever
Reviewed to our editorial standards · Updated 2026-06-12
Size
Medium
Life Span
12 to 15 years
Weight
35 to 40 pounds
Height
12 to 16 inches
Breed Group
Hound Dogs
Adaptability
Friendliness
Trainability
Energy
Health
Intelligence
Drever — Key Facts
About the Drever
The Drever is a medium hound dog known for being deeply loving with its family and friendly once acquainted. With a highly intelligent mind, adaptable to most living situations, the Drever is manageable for most owners. Typically standing 12 to 16 inches and weighing 35 to 40 pounds, this breed has a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years, making it a long-lived companion for the right family.
Originally classified within the Hound Dogs group, the Drever brings a distinct combination of traits that sets it apart. The Drever is a high-energy breed that thrives with plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Deeply affectionate, the Drever loves being close to its people and forms strong bonds with every member of the household.
Temperament
The Drever has a famously warm and sociable temperament that makes it a resilient, unfussy companion. The Drever is famously gentle and patient with children of all ages, making it a wonderful family dog. The Drever tends to love the company of other dogs and typically does well in multi-pet households.
The Drever warms up to strangers at a steady pace and is neither overly suspicious nor blindly trusting. The Drever can be vocal and will readily alert you to visitors or unusual activity. This breed has a low wanderlust potential and is unlikely to roam. The Drever has a moderate prey drive — keep an eye on small animals nearby.
Health & Lifespan
With a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years, the Drever is a long-lived breed — a serious commitment. The Drever is considered a robust, healthy breed with fewer inherited conditions than many pedigrees.
Common health areas to discuss with your vet include joint health (hip and elbow dysplasia), dental hygiene, eye health, and routine parasite prevention including flea, tick, and heartworm. The Drever has a moderate tendency to gain weight — monitor portion sizes and avoid too many treats. Annual wellness bloodwork — including a complete blood count and biochemistry panel — is recommended from middle age onward to catch conditions like hypothyroidism, kidney disease, and diabetes early. Pet insurance is strongly recommended from puppyhood.
Is this breed right for you?
The Drever is a good fit for a wide range of owners who can provide an active lifestyle with plenty of outdoor time. Compact living spaces are no problem for this breed.
The Drever handles alone time well and is less likely to develop separation anxiety. Cold climates suit this breed well. The Drever handles warm weather reasonably well with standard precautions.
In summary, the Drever is a sociable and loving hound dogs that fits well into a variety of households. Do thorough research, meet the breed in person if possible, and connect with a reputable breeder or rescue before bringing a Drever home.
Helpful Tools
Care Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Drever good with kids?
The Drever is known for being patient and gentle with children of all ages, making it a popular family choice.
How much exercise does a Drever need?
The Drever is a high-energy breed that needs at least 1–2 hours of vigorous exercise every day. Activities like fetch, hiking, and agility are ideal.
Does the Drever shed a lot?
The Drever sheds a moderate amount. Regular brushing a few times per week helps manage loose fur.
Own a Drever?
Track health records, set care reminders, and connect with other Drever owners in Hushku.