AKA: Borzoi, Russkaya Psovaya Borzaya, Psowaya Barsaya, Barzoi, Psovoi

Description: The Borzoi is a tall dog that has an aristocratic appearance because of its height and its long narrow head. It has a slightly arched muzzle, black nose, and dark oblong eyes. Its ears normally lie back on its neck. The back of the Borzoi is naturally and gracefully curved. It has a narrow chest and there is a heavy mane of hair on the neck. The tail is long and curved, hanging low. The coat of the Borzoi consists of long silky hair that can be wavy or with large curls.

Dynamics: The Borzoi is an intelligent and proud breed. It can be trained and it can be very loyal to its family. But it is also a very independent dog, and does not bend easily to please people. Training the Borzoi should be based on mutual respect. Once the Borzoi trusts you and sees you as a friend, it will become sweet and affectionate with you.

The Borzoi is a serious and quiet dog. It can keep itself clean like a cat, and, while getting along fairly well with children, values its rest and does not take into rough play sessions. The Borzoi is by nature a hunting breed so it has to be watched carefully lest it runs off to chase other animals. It is very fast and has little territorial instinct. It cannot be trusted with small animals and non-canine pets. This breed also needs to be socialized well at an early age.

Breed Group: Hounds, Sight Hound and Pariah

Weight: males 75-105 lbs (34-48 kg), females 60-90 lbs (27-41 kg)

Height: males at least 28 inches (71 cm), females at least 26 inches (66 cm)

Color: The coat color of the Borzoi can be white, golden, tan or gray with black markings, either solid or mixed.

Country of Origin: The Borzoi originated in Russia, although it is thought to have been brought there from Arabia. Its popularity spread throughout Europe when Queen Victoria came to own one.

Grooming: The Borzoi has a long silky coat but it is actually easy to groom. Regular brushing is enough. Bathing isn’t required, but dry shampoo may be necessary occasionally. Clip the hair between the toes to make it comfortable for the Borzoi.

Activities: The Borzoi needs plenty of exercise and some time to run around off the leash. Aside from hunting, the Borzoi’s talents include sighting and lure coursing.

Other Info: The Borzoi has a life expectancy of about 10-12 years. This breed is sensitive to drugs and is picky about its meals. It is prone to bloat. Avoid exercises after its meals. The Borzoi will do well in an apartment as long as it is taken outdoors and exercised sufficiently. Keep the dog in a least most often because it might run off suddenly when it finds something interesting to chase after.

Photo: Taru T Torpström

AKA: Ridgeback, African Lion Dog, African Lion Hound

Description: The Rhodesian Ridegback is large and well-muscled dog. It has a flat broad head with a long and deep muzzle and a defined stop. Its nose can be black, brown, or liver, and its eyes are usually brown. Its ears are set high and dropping down and tapering. It has a deep chest, and strong straight front legs. The body ends with a long and tapering tail that curves upward a little. The Rhodesian Ridgeback’s most distinctive feature is its clearly defined symmetrical ridge of hair growing in the opposite direction running down the middle of the back.

Dynamics: The Rhodesian Ridgeback is known to be a ferocious and sophisticated hunter, but it is also a calm and gentle dog to its master or family. It has a good nature and is obedient and even-tempered. It can play roughly though and may not do well with small children. This is an intelligent and serious dog, straightforward and confident. It is brave and and can have an imposing presence. Towards strangers, this dog is reserved and quiet. But it can socialize well when trained.

When training the Rhodesian Ridgeback, it is important that the training be consistent and firm. This breed does not respond well to meek or passive owners, and might refuse to take us seriously. Without the proper training and socialization, the Rhodesian Ridgeback may develop destructive behavior and may become combatant with other dogs or pets. It might also become stubborn and may refuse to follow you. But once you have established that you are the leader and the dog is the follower, then the Rhodesian Ridgeback will prove that is is a loyal and protective companion.

Breed Group: Southern, Hound

Weight: males 80-90 pounds (36-41kg), females 65-75 pounds (29-34kg)

Height: males 25-27 inches (63-69cm), females 24-26 inches (61-66cm)

Color: The color of the Rhodesian Ridgeback’s coat range from light wheaten to shades of red. Sometimes there are little white patches on the chest and toes.

Country of Origin: The Rhodesian Ridgeback came from Zimbabwe, South Africa, where it is known as a hunting dog and retriever. It also took care of children and guarded property. When hunting in packs, this breed is excellent in hunting lions, which earned them the name of African Lion Hound.

Activities: The Rhodesian Ridgeback has great stamina and energy. It needs a lot of exercise and a lot of opportunities to run around. It should be walked everyday and allowed to run free in a safe and secure area.

Grooming: Grooming the Rhodesian Ridgeback is easy because it has a short and smooth coat. Brush occasionally with a bristle brush. Dry shampoo only when necessary. It is an average shedder.

Other Info: The Rhodesian Ridgeback has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years. It is a generally healthy breed but can also be prone to the usual ailments like hip dysplasia and dermoid sinus. The Rhodesian Ridgeback will be all right living in an apartment as long as it is getting enough exercise.

Photo: Sannse

AKA: Reds

Description: The Redbone Coonhound is a robust but neat-looking dog. Its appearance is handsome and clean, yet also displays strength and agility. Its coat is shiny and sleek, short and lying flat. Its head is nicely modeled, with a medium stop between the brow and the nose. Its ears are long and hanging. Its paws are compact and cat-like, and its legs are strongly toned. Its tail is held upright.

Dynamics: The Redbone Coonhound looks serious but it has a sweet temperament and a happy disposition. It is an affectionate dog and it gets along very well with children. It also has a pleasant bark, and doesn’t really alarm people to fear. This dog loves people and values companionship, and it can adapt well to family life. It is eager to please and is a loyal and obedient dog. It can also get along well with other pets provided it has been socialized at an early age.

The Redbone Coonhound was bred as a hunter. It has the instinct of one and it is not difficult to train to follow a scent and give chase to a target. It is fast, alert, and adaptable to any types of weather and difficult terrain. It is flexible and agile, able to hunt ion steep or rocky grounds. The Redbone Coonhound is one of the best in coon hunting. It is also good in trailing and treeing bear, cougar, and bobcat. The Redbone Coon hound is also an excellent water dog.

Breed Group: Hound

Weight: 50-70 pounds (23-32 kg)

Height: 21-27 inches (53-66 cm)

Color: The color of the Redbone Coonhound’s coat is red, sometimes with a little white on the feet or chest.

Country of Origin: The Redbone Coonhound originated in the United States, specifically in the American South. Breeders in Tennessee and Georgia wanted a hound with more speed and a hotter sniffer. They first developed the Saddlebacks which possessed black saddle markings. The breeders developed the Redbone Coonhound by selective breedind, wherein the solid red dogs were distinguished.

Activities: The Redbone Coonhound has a lot of stamina as befitting of a hunting dog, and so it needs a lot of physical exercise. It needs to be walked everyday. It has a tendency to run off and hunt around so make sure that the area is securely fenced.

Grooming: The coat of the Redbone Coonhound only needs an occasional brushing. Bathe only when necessary. It is a light shedder.

Other Info: The Redbone Coonhound has a life expectancy of 11 to 12 years. It is a generally healthy breed but can be affected by hip dysplasia like all dogs. This breed will do okay living in an apartment as long as it is sufficiently exercised.

Photo: Amy Lawson

AKA: Norsk Elghund Gra, Norsk Elghund Sort

Description: The Norwegian Elkhound is a medium-sized dog of the Spitz type. It has a sturdy body and a squarely build. The head is broad and wedge-shaped, and the muzzle and pointed prick ears are black. Its ears are very mobile and its eyes are dark brown. Its strong jaws form a scissors bite. Its body is relatively short, its chest deep and wide. The body ends with a tail rolled tightly over its back. Its forelegs are straight, and its paws are small and tight, with thick pads. The Norwegian Elkhound has no doggie smell.

Dynamics: The Norwegian Elkhound is a friendlt and energetic dog. It is also reliable and fearless. This breed makes a sensible guard dog, being so reserved with strangers and able to alert its family or companions for anything suspicious. The Norwegian Elkhound is generally an independent dog, but it can also be loyal and affectionate to its owners. Training this breed will require the owner to show good pack leadership. Gentle but firm discipline is needed.

The Norwegian is also good at hunting, bred to hold its prey at bay until the hunter arrives to finish the job. This breed can bark a lot and has to be taught when to stop. The Norwegian Elkhound also likes to roam around. This breed may be aggressive with dogs of the same sex. It is also not certain whether this dog gets along with noncanine pets or not. It is best to watch over this breed when it is in the company of smaller pets.

Breed Group: Northern, Hound

Weight: males 50-60 pounds (23-27 kg), females 40-55 pounds (18-25 kg)

Height: males 19-21 inches (48-53 cm.), females 18-20 inches (46-51 cm)

Color: The Norwegian Elkhound has a stand-off double coat that is of a gray color with a lighter undercoat and undersides.

Country of Origin: The Norwegian Elkhound is one of the most ancient breeds, dating back to 4000 to 5000 B.C. It originated in Norway. It was particularly used as a hunter dog in Scandinavia, especially when the game is a moose or an elk. This breed is good at scent tracking and can hold a quarry at bay for its owner. Aside from hunting, the Norwegian Elkhound is also used as a sled dog. Other talents also include herding, watchdogging, guarding, and agility.

Activities: The Norwegian Elkhound is an energetic dog that always needs to be doing something. A long walk or sufficient exercise everyday is important. The Norwegian Elkhound also enjoys running and just roaming around. Be careful that it doesn’t pick up a scent and go after a quarry if you’re not out hunting.

Grooming: The Norwegian Elkhound’s coat is coarse and weatherproof, so it is easy to groom. Just brush regularly. When it is shedding, remove its dead hair with a rubber brush or a wooden comb with a double row of metal teeth. Bathe only when necessary.

Other Info: The Norwegian Elkhound has a life expectancy of about 12 to 15 years. It is prone to hip dysplasia, pyotraumatic dermatitis and PRA. As long as it taken outdoors from time to time and sufficiently exercised, it is all right living in an apartment. Norwegian Elkhounds prefer cool climates.

Photo: Sannse

Description: The Lurcher is a crossbreed, and so there is no set standard for its appearance. This breed is mainly derived from sighthound crosses, and so most often it has the built of a sighthound — long and straight legs, deep chest that provides lung capacity for endurance, high set ears that are usually wire-haired, scissors bite jaws, and other characteristics of its sighthound ancestors.

The most common combinations of this crossbreed are the Greyhound/Collie mix and the Greyhound/Terrier mix. Its coat is most often short with a smooth undercoat which thickens in the winter. But depending on its ancestor, a Lurcher can also have a long coat. Some may even have rough coat like that of a terrier.

Dynamics: Even the Lurcher’s temperament varies according to how it was raised and from which breed it is descended from. But generally, the Lurcher is an affectionate and lovable dog, and has the temperament similar to that of a purebred sighthound. The Lurcher also has the strong hunting instincts of the sighthounds, as well as their physical abilities. The Lurcher is also endowed with great energy and can move smart and fast.

The Lurcher is also an intelligent and obedient dog, able to grasp commands fast. It is a very good companion dog, and loves to move and play around. Socialization is important, as it is with most dogs, and you should not ignore this dog so that the Lurcher will not develop destructive behavior.

Breed Group: Sighthound

Weight: 60-70 pounds (27-32 kg)

Height: 27-30 inches (69-76 cm)

Color: The color of the Lurcher’s coat varies as it is a crossbreed. Its color will depend on its parents.

Country of Origin: The Lurcher was bred in Ireland and Great Britain to hunt rabbits, hare, and other small animals in the 1600s. It was mostly the Irish gypsies and tinkers who raise Lurchers, and they made pups as young as six months old work in hunting. Today a more systematic manner is carried out in breeding Lurchers.

Activities: The Lurcher has a lot of energy to spare that there is a need to tae it for a walk everyday. It should also be set free once in a while to play and run around in an open area. It likes to give chase to small game so the area should be free of passing cars and other dangers for the Lurcher to build upon its hunting instincts.

Grooming: Combing and brushing the coat regularly is enough in grooming the Lurcher. This is for both the short-coated and long-coated. Some Lurchers are constant shedders, and some are average shedders.

Other Info: The Lurcher has a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years, and is not suitable to live in the city or in a small apartment. It is a high-energy dog and needs to have a lot of room for play and exercise.

Photo: Oliver Low

AKA: Norwegian Lundehund, Norwegian Puffin Dog, Norsk Lundehund

Description: The Norwegian Lundehund is a spitz type that cn easily be distinguished because of its odd charcteristics. For one, it has six toes on each foot instead of the usual four that dogs have. It also has joints in the nape of its neck, which other dogs don’t have. Other minor but extraordinarily odd features of this breed includes its extremely flexible shoulder joints and its extremely mobile ears.

The Lundehund is rectangularly proportional in shape, and is small and comparatively light. Its head is small The eyes are brown and deeply set, the ears are medium-sized and erect. Its legs are strong and muscled. Its tail is carried in a ring over its back or hanging. Its coat is rough and short, lying flat against its body.

Dynamics: The Norwegian Lundehund is a very friendly and playful dog. It loves people and likes to be close with its family or other dogs. It is also good with children. As long as it is socialized and brought up in a positive environment, the Lundehund will be a great family dog. It is also intelligent and can be very curious. This breed can be trained for agility, and it makes a great hunter. This dog is able to climb steep areas, thanks to its six toes on its foot. It can turn its head in a 180-degree angle because of the extra joints in the nape of its neck.

The Lundehund can be stubborn at times, and can also be manipulative. Because of this, you have to train the dog with consistency and strong stance. As the trainer, you have to be a good leader and show them who is boss. The training has to come with trust between the trainer and the dog, of course. This dog is obstinate and will require patience as it can be difficult to housebreak. This breed is somewhat primitive. Crate training is recommended because the Lundehund has a strong den instinct. It is also better to give the Lundehund freedom to go out whenever it wants to.

Breed Group: Northern, Hounds

Weight: 13-20 pounds (6-9 kg)

Height: 12-15.5 inches (31-39 cm)

Color: The coat of the Norwegian Lundehund can either be reddish brown with black hair tips, black, or grey, all with white markings. It can also be white with dark markings. The adult Lundehund has a more distinct black in its outer coat than the young Lundehund.

Country of Origin: The Norwegian Lundehund is from Vaerog and Rost, in northern Norway. This breed is among the rarest breeds. It was used to hunt puffins. When the puffins became a protected species, the number of Lundehunds decreased.

Activities: The Norwegian Lundehund is an energetic dog, needing a long walk every day and long sessions of play.

Grooming: Regular brushing or combing of the coat is enough to groom the Norwegian Lundehund. Bathe or dry shampoo only when necessary.

Other Info: The Norwegian Lundehund has a life expectancy of 12 years. This breed is prone to the Lundehund Syndrome, which is a series of digestive problems still being studied today. This breed is not suitable when living in an apartment.

Photo: Karen Elise Dahlmo

Description: The Lithuanian Hound is a sturdy and muscular dog. It has a heavily boned body with short glossy coat. The head is a little large, and broad between the ears. Its eyes are brown, its nose black, and its ears have rounded tips and hang down close to the cheeks. The muzzle is proportionally sized to the head. The jaw forms a scissors bite.

The body of the Lithuanian Hound is medium-sized. The neck is a little long and has no dewlap. The Lithuanian Hound’s chest is long and deep and broad. As for the legs, they are all perpendicular, with muscular thighs. The hocks are straight and the feet are round, all strong. The tail is held low, gradually tapering.

Dynamics: The Lithuanian Hound is an excellent sight hound. It has the attitude and instincts of a hunter — persistent, brave, vigorous, and fast. It is specially good in hunting hare, fox, and boar. It is quite an intelligent and lively breed, and very energetic. With its family, it is pleasant companion. It is eager to please its owners and is agreeable. This breed is also known for its voice.

Breed Group: Hound

Weight: 60-75 pounds (27-32 kg)

Height: 21-24 inches (53-61 cm)

Color: The Lithuanian Hound is almost always mistaken with the Rottweiler and the Black and Tan Coonhound because of its coat, which is a glossy black with limited tan markings.

Country of Origin:The Lithuanian Hound came from Russia as the result of breeding and crossing Beagles, Bloodhounds, Polish Hounds, and Russian Hounds. This breed is rare and is not really seen outside the Lithuanian Republic.

Activities: The Lithuanian Hound is a dog full of energy and spirit. It likes to spend its time outdoors, running and playing. This breed needs to be taken out on a daily walk. It also needs a lot of exercise.

Grooming: The coat of the Lithuanian is naturally short and glossy, and therefore does not require extensive grooming. An occasional brushing is enough.

Other Info: The Lithuanian is not suitable to live in an apartment, as it likes to spend its time outdoors and has a lot of energy. The breed is also prone to common dog diseases but is otherwise a healthy dog.

Photo: www.GreatDogSite.com

AKA: Magyar Agar

Description: The Hungarian Greyhound is a sighthound that is is used in hunting and tracking. It has an elegant and graceful body structure, with short and smooth coat. The neck is long and the chest is deep, narrowing towards the abdomen. The front legs are straight, while the hind legs are bending towards the rear. The tail is thin and is usually carried low.

The head of the Hungarian Greyhound is proportionately long, with only a slight stop. The ears are button-shaped and are raised halfway. The eyes are almond-shaped and have a gentle expression.

Dynamics: The Hungarian Greyhound is an affectionate and well-behaved breed. It has a gentle and calm temperament, quietly sweet and cautious. It gets along with children and other dogs, and is highly unlikely to attack and bite. It has the tendency to be reserved with people, especially with strangers. It is faithful and loyal to its owner. It is an intelligent breed, and is an excellent coursing dog.

Weight: 49-68 lbs

Height: 25-27 inches at the shoulders

Color: The Hungarian Greyhound comes in a variety of colors.

Country of Origin: The Hungarian Greyhound is considered to be originating in Hungary and Romania (specifically Transylvania), though it had only settled in the area with the Magyar tribe whom they traveled with. It is not well-known outside these countries.

Activities: The Hungarian Greyhound is used for hunting, coursing, and as a companion dog. Regular exercises or taking it outside for a walk will keep it fit and healthy.

Other Info: The Magyar Agár has an average life span of 12-14 years.

Photo by SysopWiki

AKA: Hanover Hound, Hanoverian Hound, Hannover’scher Schweisshund

Description: The Hanoverian Scenthound, or the Hanover Hound, is a hunting and tracking dog with a compact and powerful body. It is rectangularly proportional, its body slightly longer than it is taller. It has a long face, with a wide muzzle and pronounced stop. Its ears are naturally left hanging. The eyes are an almond-shaped dark brown. The nose is black. Its strong jaws form a scissors or level bite.

Dynamics: The Hanover Scenthound is a working dog that has a calm temperament but passionate and persistent in its job. It is loyal to its owner.

Breed Group: Scenthound

Weight: 36-45 kg (80-99 lbs)

Height: males 50-55 cm (19-22 inches), females 48-53 cm (18-21 inches)

Color: The Hanoverian Scenthound’s coat color ranges from light to dark reddish fawn with a brindled appearance.

Country of Origin: The Hanoverian Breed originated from Germany. It was introduced into France in the 1980s but it is still a very rare breed.

Activities: The Hanoverian Scenthound is used in hunting and tracking game, but is also a great family companion.

Grooming: Combing and brushing the coat once a week is enough. Its short coat doesn’t need that much grooming.

Other Info: The Hanoverian Scenthound is not fit for the city or apartment life. It is at its best when an open are is readily available for it to have some amount of freedom.

Photo by Dojkungern

AKA: Hellenic Hound, Greek Harehound, Greek Hound

Description: The Hellenikos Ichnilatis is a medium-sized hunter dog that has an excellent nose and an athletic body. It is slightly longer than it is tall. It has a fitting skin and sleek short coat. The head is noble, but not as massive as the Bloodhound’s. The ears hang flat, light and not too long. The nose is black and the eyes are a dark brown. The eye rims should be tight, with no haw. The teeth form a scissors bite.

Dynamics: The Hellenikos Ichnilatis is an intelligent and brave breed. It is a powerful and passionate hunter. It is relentless in chasing its prey, possessing a huge amount of stamina and cunning. It is also a very useful farm dog, guarding the grounds and alerting the owners for any suspicious people or activity with their loud bark.

But while it is swift and deadly in the hunt, it has an affectionate and friendly temperament with its owner and family. It is extremely playful, wagging its tail in an eagerness to please. It is good-natured, but it can be willful and stubborn. It has a strong temperament and can be independent. Proper training and discipline is needed, with patience and consistency, to avoid behavioral problems.

Breed Group: Hound

Weight: 38-44 pounds (17-20 kg)

Height: 18-22 inches (45-55 cm)

Color: The coat of the Hellenikos Ichnilatis comes in black with tan markings. Sometimes there is a small white spot on the chest.

Country of Origin: The Hellenikos Ichnilatis is an indigenous dog breed to Greece. It is descended from ancient Greek scenthounds and has remained pure throughout the centuries. It is the first Greek breed recognized by the FCI (in 1996).

Activities: The Hellenikos Ichnilatis needs a certain amount of freedom and a lot of exercise. The breed is used in hunting and is also very useful as a farm dog and family companion.

Grooming: The short sleek coat of the Hellenikos Ichnilatis is easy to care for and groom. Brushing with a bristle brush is enough. Bathe in mild soap and dry shampoo only occasionally. Nails should be trimmed. Feet and mouth should be inspected after work or exercises.

Other Info: The Hellenikos Ichnilatis has a life expectancy of 11 years. It is a very healthy breed, with an excellent health record. The Hellenikos Ichnilatis is not fit for an apartment life as it loves open spaces and has a lot of energy to exhaust.

Photo by Trisha Shears