Hounds – A Diverse Group United by Their Hunting Instincts
Hounds make up one of the oldest domesticated dog groups, originating tra back thousands of years. While individual hound breeds vary greatly in size, appearance, and purpose, they all share strong hunting instincts and sense of smell allowing them to track and pursue prey. When we think of hounds, scent hounds like Beagles and Bloodhounds usually come to mind. However, there are also sight hounds that hunt by sight rather than scent. Let’s look at some of the most popular hound breeds and see how they compare.
Scenthounds
Scenthounds track their quarry using their highly developed sense of smell. Their long, drooping ears help stir up scents from the ground. They often work in packs.
Beagles
- One of the most popular hound breeds, Beagles are scenthounds developed to hunt rabbits and other small game.
- Small size, only 13-15 inches tall. Muscular body, short coat in tricolor or red/white. Long ears and expressive face.
- Friendly, curious, energetic personality. Make lively family companions. Require daily exercise.
- Prone to following scents and wandering off leash. Require patient, positive training.
Basset Hounds
- Originally bred in France to hunt rabbits and hare. Short legs allow them to follow scents close to the ground.
- Long, heavy body with loose skin. Short legs make them only 12-15 inches tall.
- Gentle, loyal, laidback temperament. Make excellent family pets.
- Lazy indoors but require daily walks. Scent can distract them off leash.
Bloodhounds
- Known for their keen sense of smell and tracking abilities. Used by law enforcement and search/rescue teams.
- Large, heavy hounds weighing up to 110 lbs. Folds and wrinkles around face and neck help trap scents.
- Intent, tenacious hunting style. Will follow a scent for miles.
- Can be stubborn yet sensitive. Require substantial socialization and training.
Dachshunds
- Originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers and other burrow-dwelling animals. Short legs and long body allowed them to pursue prey into burrows.
- Come in three coat varieties – smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired. Weigh 16-32 lbs.
- Curious, lively temperament. Devoted to their families. Good watchdogs.
- Prone to back issues. Should not be allowed to jump on/off furniture. Require supervision around stairs.
Scent hounds, More About
In addition to Beagles, Basset Hounds, Bloodhounds, and Dachshunds, other popular scent hound breeds include:
Coonhounds – These loud, tireless hunters include the Black and Tan Coonhound, Bluetick Coonhound, Redbone Coonhound, Plott Hound, and Treeing Walker Coonhound. Originally from the United States, they are used to tree raccoons and other game.
Foxhounds – Traditionally used in packs to hunt foxes, foxhounds are large, driven scenthounds. The English Foxhound and American Foxhound are two common breeds. They have deep voices and relentless stamina for following fox trails across all kinds of terrain.
Harriers – An old English breed used to hunt hares, Harriers resemble small Foxhounds or large Beagles. They hunt in packs and have a playful, friendly temperament.
Otterhounds – As their name suggests, these large, rough-coated hounds were used to hunt otters in medieval England. They have webbed feet and a strong swimming ability.
Sighthounds, More About
Sighthounds pursue prey using their exceptional eyesight and speed rather than scent. They spot motion and give chase.
Greyhounds
- Bred to hunt by outrunning hare and deer. Can reach speeds up to 45 mph, making them the fastest dog breed.
- Tall and slender build, with a short, sleek coat. Weigh 60-70 lbs. Come in any color or marking.
- Gentle, mild-mannered temperament. Make excellent pets once retired from racing. Love comfort and affection.
- Require soft bedding due to their thin skin. Need several short walks/sprints rather than one long run.
Whippets
- Developed in England by crossing Greyhounds with smaller terriers. Used to hunt rabbits and small game.
- Resemble a small Greyhound. Weigh 25-40 lbs. and stand 18-22 inches tall. Short, fine coat.
- Energetic with a playful, friendly nature. Devoted companions. Need daily exercise and playtime.
- Prone to chasing anything that moves quickly. Require secure fencing. Enjoy lure coursing.
Afghan Hounds
- Ancient sighthounds from Afghanistan bred to hunt hare in rocky mountain areas.
- Distinguished appearance with a long, silky coat and exotic, narrow face. Weigh 50-60 lbs.
- Aloof, dignified temperament. Devoted and loyal to their family.
- Require significant grooming and exercise. Do best with experienced owners able to provide structure.
In addition, other sight hound breeds include:
Borzoi – Also called the Russian Wolfhound, this elegant breed can reach speeds of 35-40 mph to hunt wolves, foxes, and hares on the Russian steppe. They have a long, silky coat.
Saluki – One of the oldest domesticated breeds, the Saluki originated in the Middle East to pursue gazelles and other swift game. They have a slim build, long legs, and a feathered coat.
Irish Wolfhound – As the name suggests, these giant sighthounds were originally used to hunt wolves in Ireland. Despite their imposing size, they have a patient, noble temperament.
Ibizan Hound – Originating on the Spanish island of Ibiza, these nimble deer hunters have a lean, athletic build and large upright ears. Their short coat comes in various colors and patterns.
Hounds have contributed to developing many modern breeds beyond those still classified as hounds. From Beagles contributing to the development of Labrador and Golden Retrievers, to Greyhound being crossed with Bulldogs giving rise to the English Bulldog, hound blood runs deep through many of our dog breeds today. While individual hound breeds vary in size, purpose, and temperament, they all exhibit the strong prey drive and determination that has helped humans successfully hunt game through the centuries.
Other Hound Types
In addition to scent and sight hounds, other hound types include:
Curs – American hunting dogs including the Mountain Cur, Black Mouth Cur, and Catahoula Leopard Dog. Tenacious, versatile trailers and bay dogs.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks – Athletic all-purpose hounds from Africa. Resemble large sighthounds but are scenthounds. Known for a distinctive ridge of fur along their back.