This exquisite face belongs to the Halden Hound, one of the Norwegian hare hounds, and a breed prized by hunters for its exceptional hunting instincts, and the ability to hunt in very difficult conditions: Freezing temperatures, deep snow, mountain terrain, and dense forests. This is a lightweight hunter, a dog gracefully sprints after its quarry.  To ensure this effortless hunter, breeders are careful to maintain an ideal foot shape which should be high and tight with dense fur growing between it long toes. Hounds depend a good deal on their feet, particularly those working in cold climate. 

To anyone’s knowledge, the breed was created in the early 1900s, but not generally recognized until 1950. By then, it was already disappearing. Were it not for the efforts of a group of breed enthusiasts, it would be lost to us today.  Sources vary as to the breeds that went into its creation. Some maintain that the breed also known as the Haldenstøver came from crosses between selected Norwegian hounds with English, French, German and Russian hounds. Others think the breed is a blend of American foxhound, beagle and other hounds. Whatever its origins, the Halden is a handsome, reliable hunting dog with a calm and friendly temperament. For all that, finding puppies is tough.  

The Haldenstover is recognized by the FCI and United Kennel Club (which did so in 2006), but thus far, not the AKC.

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