The History of the Balkan Hound

When most American dog breeders consider popular hounds, the initial thought is usually the beagle, basset hound or even the dachshund. However, Eastern Europe has its own claim to fame when it comes to a worthy hunting dog: the Balkan (or presently named Serbian) Hound. These elegant, medium-size dogs are rare outside their native home in the Balkans, but they have managed to catch the attention of dog lovers throughout the world.

  1. Origins

    • It has been believed by historians that this breed's lineage began in Egypt and that the dogs were brought to Europe by their Phoenician masters in 1000 BC. Breeding with other types of hounds throughout the Balkans--including groups from Anatolia and Montenegro--this breed developed into strong hunters that moved in packs. The first record of these dogs was found dating back to the 11th Century by an individual named Frank Laska, who documented the Balkan Hound with other scent hounds of the region.

    Recognition and Name

    • The Balkan Hound was not recognized as a breed by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) until 1940--almost 20 years after the drafting of the breed standard--nor would it be accepted by the United Kennel Club until 2006. In 1996, the Yugoslav Cynological Association changed the breed's name to the Serbian Hound. This change was decided due to the breed's numerous population throughout Serbia as well as the political breakup of Yugoslavia.

    Function

    • The Balkan Hound has always been a hunting dog, and it belongs to a category of canines known as scent hounds, meaning that they employ their hanging ears and keen noses to hunt primarily by smell rather than sight. These hounds are adept at hunting different sizes of game including elk and boars, and their pack instinct has made them devoted to other members of their hunting parties. Their stature and strong muscles allow them to cross a variety of terrains, and they have a loud howl when on the trail.

    Appearance

    • The United Kennel Club describes the Balkan Hound's appearance as that of a "medium sized, short coated hound, with a robust constitution." The dog has a long head with hanging, rounded ears and brown eyes. The dogs usually weigh about 40 pounds and stand up to 21 inches in height. The colors of the coat are a foxy red with black saddle markings, and its tail is long and tapered from its strong, sloping back.

    Personality

    • The Balkan Hound is generally energetic, sociable and friendly. Because of its hunting instinct, it needs quite a bit of exercise and requires time outdoors to be happy and healthy. Like other hunting dogs, it is inclined to chase interesting scents and moving targets, but a firm owner can keep the Balkan under control. The hound's pack nature can make it ideal for families and households with pets, but as a result, the breed may suffer from separation anxiety.