Types of Hound Dogs: What You Should Know About this Dog Group

As the original hunting dog known to man, the hunting hound dogs have quite the reputation under their belts. The hound’s sense of smell and tracking abilities make it seem as though it was created specifically for the purpose of hunting prey by the side of their human companion.

There are several hound dogs breeds out there that you should learn about if you feel as though a hound dog would be the perfect fit for you and your family. There are large and small hound breeds out there, all of which are great dogs to make a part of your family.

Hound Dog History

Since the “hound dog” is a group classification that covers multiple different breeds of dogs, their histories vary with each breed. Each story really boils down to these naturally gifted breeds that have been used for hunting and tracking purposes throughout history and all over the world. 

Some of these gifts that some hounds were born with include tracking, hunting, and even baying. Baying is a specific way that some hound dogs are able to call out to their owners or even other hounds. It’s very different from that of different breeds of dogs that are outside of the hound dog category. 

Large Hound Dog Breeds

One of the largest hound dog breeds is the Irish Wolfhound Dog. This large hound breed is near the top of the list of larger breeds of dogs in general. The average height for an adult wolfhound dog is somewhere between 81 and 86 centimeters. Averaging between 90 and 120 pounds between both genders. Despite their size, this large breed of hound dog is incredibly athletic and graceful. 

The Irish Wolfhound has been around, by the side of man, for close to 2,000 years now. They were commonly the companions of royalty and other noblemen in Ireland all this time ago. The Irish Wolfhound was praised as a “dog of war”. They would fight in battles against opposing armies by pulling riders off horseback or out of chariots during battle. As their name implies, they would also be out hunting wolves when not in battle. 

Small Hound Dog Breeds

The Miniature Long-Haired Dachshund is the smallest breed among the hound group of dogs. You may be surprised that this little canine is considered to be a hound dog. Their hound dog roots began back in 15th century Germany where they were trained to hunt small game-like badgers. 

Although, some experts may argue that their place in the hound dog group was a contextual error. Where the “hund '' in Dachshund was thought to mean “hound” but actually translates to “dog”. They certainly were raised as a breed that was utilized for their natural instinct and ability to hunt small game. Including small critters that would burrow underground. 

Hound Dog Care Needs

Again, the care needs may vary from one hound dog breed to the next. But there are some qualities and care needs that are the same across the board in this dog group. For instance, the need for regular physical activity to some degree is an important care need. Some hounds may need more or less physical activity than the next of course. 

Mental stimulation is also important with any hound breed. Especially when they are younger. Young pups love to learn and interact with the environment around them. Most hound dog breeds have extraordinary senses and will want to have the chance to exercise their senses and do what they were born to be able to do. 

Possible Hound Dog Health Problems

There are a few issues that are known to pop up in various breeds within the hound dog classification. Such as parasites, obesity, and possible diet issues or sensitivities. 

Parasites can be an issue in nearly any breed of dog. Hounds, however, are known for taking a bite out of almost anything that they come across and think may taste interesting. Regular fecal testing is often recommended for hound dogs who are known for getting into and eating things they really shouldn't be. 

As for obesity, this issue is mostly due to their big baby eyes and ability to win over the heart of almost any human they love. They will continuously ask for more food and treats. The best way to avoid obesity in your hound dog is to learn how to tell them no. 

Sensitivity to grains is also a common issue among hound dog breeds. This may present itself as skin irritations or even a noticeable loss of fur. There are specialty dog food blends that are made to accommodate for this specific food allergy. But making homemade dog food is also an option. Be sure to talk to your dog's vet before drastically changing their diet.

Conclusion

Hound dogs are all older, talented breeds of dogs. Most of which possess an extraordinary sense of smell, the ability to track prey, or can bay as a way of calling out. There are almost a dozen breeds of dog that fall under the category of “hound dog”. Ranging from the large Irish Wolfhound Dog down to the tiny Miniature long-haired dachshund. The hound dog breeds are so various and unique in their own ways, there’s a hound dog out there for every type of dog-loving family. 

What is a hound dog?

Hound dogs are a unique category of dogs, covering several breeds. This classification of dogs was used for the purpose of hunting down prey for their masters. Hound dogs were the original hunting dogs because of their powerful sense of smell and ability to track down their prey incredibly well.

Are hounds hypoallergenic?

Hound dogs shed very minimally, making them considered a “hypoallergenic” breed of dog. Their low shedding also means that they have low amounts of dander that fall off their coat as well. Making hounds the perfect dogs for people with intolerable allergies to dogs.

Are hounds good family dogs?

Aside from their hypoallergenic coats, many of the types of hounds out there are great dogs for families. They are very low maintenance as far as care goes. Hounds are also great with kids.

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Written by Petsmont Editors

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