Greek Harehound: temperament, price, health, and breeders

The Greek Hound corresponds to a very ancient breed, but its exact origins are not known. It is however assumed to descend from Egyptian hunting dogs and to have benefited from contributions from various varieties from southern Europe, notably from Italian scenthounds.

The Greek Hound is a medium-sized dog, strongly built, whose length clearly exceeds the height at the withers. The male measures from 47 to 55 cm and the female from 45 to 53 cm, for a weight of 17 to 20 kg in both sexes. Its body is about 10 % longer than it is tall, with a straight topline, a short and muscular loin, a long and broad croup, a deep chest and a tucked-up belly. The head is long, the skull slightly flattened, the stop not very pronounced, the nose black and the jaws strong. The ears, moderately long and rounded, hang vertically. The brown eyes express liveliness and intelligence. The tail, set on high, is carried sabre-like. The coat is very short, dense, rather harsh and close-lying. The coat colour is black and tan, a small white spot on the chest being only tolerated.

The Greek Hound brings together solid hunting qualities. Its powerful sense of smell, its endurance, its activity and its ability to work on varied terrain make it efficient. Its harmonious voice is also appreciated by hunters. It hunts different game, with a predilection for the hare. In the family, it is rather gentle and very attached to its owner.

Active, a hunter and fairly independent, the Greek Hound needs space and freedom. It is not really suited to urban life and even less to apartment living, but it is willing to follow its owner everywhere. Its compatibility with children and other animals is limited and requires careful socialization. It shows an average approach with strangers.

Its training must begin early and remain firm, without brutality or a show of force. Recall is one of the first lessons to put in place, as with most hunting dogs.

The acquisition cost varies depending on the breeder, the origins and the dog's intended use. The annual maintenance budget indicated by the reference sheet is between 400 and 600 euros.

The Greek Hound is generally hardy and has robust health, provided it receives regular care. It is not considered hypoallergenic.

A traditional or industrial diet may suit it if it is of good quality and covers all of its nutritional needs. The daily ration must be adapted to its sustained activity.

The breed is also known under the names Hellenic Hound, Hellinikos Ichnilatis, Greek Hound and Greek Harehound. Its English name Harehound recalls its predilection for the hare, since "hare" means hare. It bears the FCI number 214, belongs to group 6 and has been recognized by the FCI since 1959 as well as by the UKC. A litter generally has 6 to 8 puppies.