Serbian Hound Dog Breed

Other names:
Balkan Hound
Balkanski Gonic
Serbian Mountain Hound
Srpski Gonic

Pronunciation: [ Ser·bi·an hau̇nd ]

The Serbian Hound is a dog breed that has been around since at least the 11th century and was first noted in accounts at that time. Until 1996, the breed was formally recognized as the Balkan Scenthound. These dogs are rarely seen outside of the Balkans and in particular, Serbia. The United Kennel Club recognized the Serbian Hound in 2006, but the American Kennel Club has yet to allow registration.

Serbian Hound Breed Details

The Serbian Hound is a scent hound that is best utilized as a hunting dog or for service personnel such as police, fire, and search-and-rescue. Although they do make wonderful family companions for homes with children, they are not for first-time dog owners. They require a lot of training and socialization, and as they are highly independent, they need this throughout their lives.

If you are considering adopting one of these dogs, here are some things you should know:

PROS

  • Loves kids
  • Prefers packs
  • Highly intelligent
  • Great with other dogs
  • Excellent hunting dog
  • Very few health concerns
  • Great for agility sports
  • Great for people with active lifestyles
  • Easy to train for experienced hunting dog owners

CONS

  • Can be stubborn
  • Not hypoallergenic
  • Not a good guard dog
  • Extremely independent
  • May bark a fair amount
  • May be difficult to train
  • May chase smaller, non-canine pets
  • Requires a great amount of daily exercise
Type
Purebred
Lifespan
12 - 14 yrs.
Height
17½ - 22 in.
Weight
35 - 45 lbs
Friendliness
OverallFamily FriendlyChild FriendlyPet FriendlyStranger Friendly
Maintenance
Easy to GroomEnergy LevelExercise NeedsHealthShedding Amount
Behavior
Barks / HowlsEasy to TrainGuard DogPlayfulnessWatch Dog
Ownership
Apartment DogCan be AloneGood for Busy OwnersGood for New OwnersIntelligence

Serbian Hound Breed Description

These scent hounds have long been comfortable as companions when not hunting, and they get along very well with kids as well as other dogs. They are at their best when in packs, on the scent, and during the hunt.

These dogs are extremely intelligent, and they not only prefer puzzle games but seem to create them when they play with other dogs. They are easy to train for the right person, but they are highly independent as well as seek to dominate. They require an experienced master.

Serbian Hounds are known for their loyalty to their master, their devotion to the hunt, and their ability to separate their "work" from their domestic life once home. They play well with other dogs, and love romping with kids. They have a high prey drive that requires socialization with (if not separation from) small, furry, non-canine pets.

These dogs love to run wild in the woods and require a large yard to do the same if they are not used as hunting dogs. They need a lot of exercise, long daily walks, and visits to the dog park so they can enjoy the company of other dogs. Daily agility play is what will help keep your Serbian Hound happy.

Serbian Hound Health

This breed has very few health concerns, and the most particular one is their ears. Because they have large, floppy ears, infections can occur easily if the ears are neglected.

As Serbian Hounds are somewhat large dogs, they are also susceptible to the problems that strike such pets. These problems include:

  • Bloat
  • Obesity
  • Joint dysplasia

With proper exercise, a happy home, and good mental stimulation, your Serbian Hound should live to be about 12 to 14 years old.

Serbian Hound Health Concerns

Below are potential health concerns associated with Serbian Hounds.

Bloat
Hip dysplasia
Obesity

About this Article

Authored by:Dog-Learn
Updated:April 23, 2017
Menu