Serbian Hound
The Serbian Hound, previously known as the Balkan Hound is a pack hunting dog breed used in Serbia. It is red or tan with a black saddle, neck and cranium and red or tan face. Its head is flat and sloping, its muzzle pointed, with drop ears of the usual scent hound type. The Balkan Hound stands 17 to 21 inches (44–56 cm) in height and weighs about 44 pounds (20 kg). It is smooth-coated and coarse-haired. Described as pleasant natured and obedient, the breed is thought to descend from dogs left in the Balkan region by the Phoenicians in ancient times.
The Serbian Hound is a very kind breed of dog, forming bonds with its family and owners. It is a lively breed and loves to walk and play with loved ones. The Serbian Hound is a very good worker with a tenacious nature that will not let it give up until it finds its quarry.
Country of origin: Serbia
Height (at withers/shoulder): Males: 46–56 cm/18–22 in; Females: 44–54 cm/17½–21½ in
Weight: 44 lb/20 kg
Coat: Hair is short, abundant, gleaming and quite thick, lying well all over the body. The undercoat is quite well-developed. Hair is slightly longer over the back of the thighs and the underside of the tail.
Markings: A round white mark no longer than 2 cm on the chest.
Lifespan: Average 12 years.
A robust, medium-sized dog. The skull is slightly rounded with a well-developed muzzle and a nose that is always black. The eyes are oval and slanting with dark irises. Ears are set high and of medium length and width; they are carried hanging down and close to the cheeks. The neck is strong and slightly arched. The body is slightly oblong, with a back that is well-muscled, long and powerful. The tail is slightly curved up and is carried below the line of the back, covered in abundant hair. Forequarters are powerful, well-muscled and parallel with muscular shoulder blades. The hindquarters are strong with well-muscled thighs.
The Serbian Hound is a kindly breed with lively temperament which lends itself to both hunting in the field and life in the home. Tenacious, dependable, full of character and robust, this scenthound can make a good companion. Consistent and patient training required.
Friendliness: Friendly
Children: Can be good with children
Trainability: Can be difficult to train
Independence: Moderate
Dominance: Can be dominant if allowed to be
Decorum: May chase other pets
Combativeness: Can be good if sufficiently socialised with other dogs
Noise: Average barker
