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