Greek Harehound Breed Details
Below are details and specs for the Greek Harehound.
Greek Harehound Dog Breed
Greek Hound
Hellenic Hound
Hellenikos Ichnilatis
The Greek Harehound, also known as the Hellenikos Ichnilatis (its Greek name) or the Hellenic Hound, is a scent hound that originated thousands of years ago in Southern Greece. Since the ancient Greek period, this breed has been used to hunt rabbits and other small game. Greek Harehounds are known for being fiercely independent, even stubborn, and would prefer crashing through the woods – alone – during a hunt than being the cute, cuddly family companion.
Greek Harehound Breed Description
A medium-sized breed. Height at the shoulders is 18-22 inches for males, and 17-21 inches for females; weight for both sexes is 35-45 pounds.
The Greek Harehound possesses fantastic hunting skills, and an independent, sometimes stubborn nature to accompany them. While fairly affectionate and very playful, these dogs are strong-willed, difficult to train, and aren't the best family pets.
A moderate amount of maintenance is required for this breed. Little grooming (but a lot of exercise) will be necessary.
Greek Harehound Breed History
The Greek Harehound is an ancient scenthound that originated as early as 1,000 B.C. in Peloponnese, a region in Southern Greece; some argue that the breed was developed in the Peloponnesian area of Laconia. (The ancient Greek name for this breed is "lakonikoi kynes," which can be translated to "Laconian hunting dogs" in English.) Historians believe these dogs were used for tracking small game, particularly rabbits, and the breed supposedly became celebrated amongst ancient Greek citizens. According to evidence obtained from Greek artifacts, sailors reportedly used these dogs as trade in seaports all over Europe, so the Greek Harehound is believed to be the forebear of many hound breeds that developed later.
Today, the Greek Harehound is fairly rare, even in its native Greece. In 1996, this breed became recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), the international dog breed organization, becoming the first Greek dog breed to do so.
Greek Harehound Appearance
The Greek Harehound's coat is short-haired and smooth. This breed has a body that is a bit greater in length than in height; the head is a narrow wedge typical of most hound breeds, the eyes are brown, almond-shaped, and medium-sized, and the ears are high-set and long, triangular, and hanging. The chest is broad, the shoulders muscular, the legs well-developed and slightly curved, and the tail is medium-length and thick at the base.
Greek Harehound Colors
The images below represent the coat colors and patterns associated with Greek Harehounds.
Black and Brown
Greek Harehound Temperament
Brave, friendly, intelligent, and independent, the Greek Harehound is an active, fearless hunting breed that possesses great athleticism and stamina. These dogs love the outdoors, and are prized for their ability to hunt without much supervision. While Greek Harehounds are very playful and moderately affectionate, they are known for being stubborn and willful at times, and are not good as the typical "cuddly family pets." They are slow to mature, and usually don't reach adulthood until age two or even three; male Harehounds are particularly boisterous, and these dogs – both genders – are recommended only for experienced dog owners. Early socialization with children and other pets is great for this breed, as is consistent discipline and positive reinforcement during puppyhood. Harehounds can be difficult to train, and are known for being destructive if left alone for extended periods. Experts suggest consistent "rule-setting" and careful guidance when the dog is young to minimize this temperamental behavior.
On the plus side, a Greek Harehound has a long, extremely loud bark, which combined with its inquisitive instincts makes it a great watchdog.
Greek Harehound Maintenance
A Harehound needs a moderate amount of care. It typically doesn't require a lot of training (though any training will be difficult); little grooming is necessary, but these dogs need a good deal of exercise.
Grooming Requirements
These dogs shed moderately. A Harehound's short coat only requires occasional brushing (once every 2-3 weeks should do); baths are only necessary every 2-3 months. The long, hanging ears will need to be checked regularly, as they tend to collect debris.
Exercise Requirements
As an extremely active breed, the Greek Harehound will need lots of physical activity. Rather than playing games, a Harehound will enjoy running and exploring in the outdoors, which it will do on its own as well as accompanying its owners. Long daily walks, with the dog leashed, are also a good idea.
Living Requirements
This breed is much better suited for homes with lots of outdoor space, and is not recommended for apartment living.
Greek Harehound Health
Life expectancy is 10-12 years. This breed is extremely healthy and robust; no health issues are known.
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Updated:June 13, 2016