Transylvanian Hound
- Medium
- Foundation Stock Service
The Transylvanian Hound is a good-natured, courageous Hungarian breed once prized by medieval aristocracy as a hunting companion. Active and loyal, this medium-sized dog thrives with a family that keeps it busy.
- Height
- 22 to 26
- inches at the shoulder
- Weight
- 55 to 77
- pounds, adult
- Life expectancy
- 10 to 14
- years, median 12
- Senior from
- 9
- years, about
Senior starts in the last quarter of a breed's expected lifespan, following the 2019 AAHA canine life stage guidelines. Individual dogs vary.
About the breed
- Temperament
- Good-natured, courageous, determined
- Coat
- Smooth, short
- Origin
- Hungary
The Transylvanian Hound is a good-natured, even-keeled dog with a lively spirit. Medium-sized, muscular, and streamlined, it carries dark brown, almond-shaped eyes and droopy, medium-high ears that hang close to the cheeks. The Transylvanian Hound's short coat is smooth and easy to recognize.
At home, the breed is loyal, playful, brave, even-tempered, and watchful. Generations of hard work made it tough, determined, and built to endure any weather.
Known in Hungary as the Erdelyi Kopo, the breed was favored by the Hungarian aristocracy as a hunting companion during the Middle Ages. The varied terrain of the Carpathian Mountains split the breed into two varieties, one short-legged and one long-legged. Both neared extinction in the 20th century, but breeders revived the dog starting in 1968. The short-legged version eventually died out, and the long-legged version is now found mostly in Hungary and Romania.
Temperament and needs
Scored 1 to 5 for the breed overall. Individual dogs vary.
- Affectionate with family5 out of 5
- Good with young children5 out of 5
- Good with other dogs5 out of 5
- Openness to strangers4 out of 5
- Playfulness5 out of 5
- Watchdog and protective nature5 out of 5
- Adaptability4 out of 5
- Trainability4 out of 5
- Energy level5 out of 5
- Mental stimulation needs5 out of 5
- Barking level4 out of 5
- Shedding3 out of 5
- Grooming frequency2 out of 5
- Drooling3 out of 5
Care
The routines that matter most for this breed. Open one at a time.
Nutrition
The Transylvanian Hound does well on a high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian's supervision and approval. Match the diet to the dog's life stage, whether puppy, adult, or senior, and to any individual health needs. This is an active breed, and the right food fuels that activity.
Watch the amount of food and treats you give, since some older dogs tend to gain weight as they age. Treats help with training, but too many can lead to extra pounds, so keep them in check. Learn which human foods are safe for dogs and which are not.
Your veterinarian is a reliable source for feeding amounts and nutrition guidelines, so check in about any concern over your dog's weight or diet. Keep clean, fresh water available at all times.
Grooming
The Transylvanian Hound's short, smooth coat needs little upkeep. Brushing once a week with a firm bristle brush is enough, and a rubber coat glove or grooming mitt helps lift the loosened hairs.
The strong, fast-growing nails need regular trimming with a clipper or grinder to prevent overgrowth, splitting, and cracking. Check the ears now and then for a buildup of wax and debris, which can lead to discomfort if left alone.
Provide regular dental care with at-home teeth brushing and professional cleanings.
Exercise
The Transylvanian Hound needs daily activity and stimulation. Provide at least an hour-long walk or run, preferably with a family member.
Keep in mind that the urge to chase game can run stronger than its attachment to its owner. For that reason, walking off-leash is not advisable, and free romps should happen only in securely enclosed areas.
The Transylvanian Hound also makes a strong candidate for dog sports. Training for agility, obedience, and rally gives it another good outlet for its energy and a mental workout to match.
Training
The Transylvanian Hound is an independent hunting breed with strong hunting instincts, so use thoughtful, consistent training.
Patience and persistence go a long way. Keep its lessons consistent and clear, and favor short sessions over long ones. Harsh methods are not recommended.
Begin training and socialization early to teach boundaries and household behavior.
Sources
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