Transylvanian Hound

Breed Rating

Breed Attribute

Breed Details

User Comments

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Transylvanian Hound is an ancient and very rare breed of scenthound dog that originated in Hungary. This breed is also known as Erd�lyi kop�, Transylvanischer Laufhund, Ungarische Bracke, Copoi ardelenesc, Transylvanian Bloodhound, Hungarian Hound and Transylvanian Scenthound. These dogs, it is believed, were derived from a cross between dogs brought to Hungary by the Magyars and various European hounds. The result was a loyal, determined scent hound prized by Hungarian nobles for its ability to hunt deer, boar, bears, wolves and lynxes. Developed in Carpathian Mountains which is rich in forest, meadows and rivers, the dog is able to hunt over all sorts of terrain and under all sorts of weather. It is an efficient hunter even during frozen winters, or sultry summers. With keen sense of smell and excellent sense of direction, this tenacious, hard working and tireless hunter is highly valued by Hungarian people.

There are two varieties of this dog as a result of the varying terrains. A short legged which stands between 18-21 inches and a long legged which stands between 24-26 inches. A long head with slightly doomed skull starts off this breed and leads to same length muzzle as skull. The black nose is wide. Dark brown, medium size and almond shaped eyes are set slightly obliquely. The medium high set, floppy ears hang down close to cheeks.

The dog?s body is almost square. It has a straight back and topline. This breed has well pronounced withers, a broad chest and a tucked up belly. The neck is muscular but perfectly proportionate to the body. The shiny coat is soft, dense and coarse in texture soft and dense undercoat. Tan markings and white patches accompany the black base colour, making the dog tricoloured.

This breed is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by FCI and UKC.

Color

The Transylvanian Hound has black as base colour. Tan colour is present on muzzle, eyebrows and legs. Head, neck, chest, lower legs and tip of tail have white markings.

Coat

This dog's whole body is covered with short, straight, dense and flat coat. It is shiny and coarse to touch. The coat is longer on neck, withers, back of upper thighs and underside of the tail. Undercoat is under the topcoat.

Personality

Undoubtedly a highly valued hunter, the Transylvanian Hound is equally appreciated and valued by non-hunting people for its even temperament and sweet nature. These dogs bond strongly to their family. With inherent protective instinct, this intimidating and imposing breed makes a great watch and guard dog, announcing arrival of an stranger. This lively breed is known to be very good with children. It gets along with other dogs but can be combative due to its high territorial instincts. Smaller, non-canine pets will need supervision over this dog due to its high prey drive. This adaptable breed will best suit rural setting but can adapt to live in an apartment if its exercise needs are regularly met. A daily long walk will do. Under exercised dogs will become destructive. These intelligent dogs can find ways to escape even a fenced yard to be with their owner as they like to be with their family most of the time and should not be left alone for longer periods of time.

Care

This short-coated breed is average shedder and does not require much in grooming.

Training

Training this dog will not be a problem as it is docile and amenable. Training and socialization should start at an early age. Consistent positive training will yield desired results.

Activity

This dog is active indoors. As such, a daily long walk will take care of most of its exercise needs. This dog, though, would love to be outdoors. It should be provided with ample playing time in a secure open area.