The Chilean Terrier

The Chilean Terrier is the first official breed to come out of Chile. It is recognized by the Kennel Club of Chile although is not yet recognized by the FCI. It is virtually unknown in America altogether. The breed came about by crossing the Smooth Fox Terrier (brought over by European immigrants) with a rare breed known as the Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz in the late 19th century. These small terriers are known for their outspoken natures, courageous temperaments and high aptitudes for rodent extermination. This is an active (almost restless) breed that nonetheless also possesses a balanced and loyal nature towards their owners.

The Chilean is a working terrier but can make a great companion in the right home because of his dedicated and faithful nature. He can live in either a large home or a farm-type setting with ease. He has no problem getting “down and dirty” on a ranch but can fare equally well in a large estate as well – both were homes in which early members of the breed lived. He also can live comfortably in most any climate as long as common sense is used. He gets along with children as he is very playful and enjoys romping around with them. This said, because of his excitable nature, he does best with slightly older kids.

Build for hunting ornery rodents, and speedily avoiding sharp rodent teeth in the process of doing so, the Chilean Terrier is adept at keeping himself from getting unnecessarily hurt whenever possible. This isn’t to say that injuries cannot happen, but he has fast reflexes and is quick-witted at avoiding bites from rats, snakes and even dogs. Another talent of this breed is his fantastic memory – both for good events as well as bad. He will remember someone that treated him harshly just as well as he will remember a favorite person from his early puppyhood. One final talent – Chileans have excellent senses of smell and they are often in “hunt mode”, especially when outside. If they smell a rat, it can be difficult to get them to listen as they consider hunting rodents their number one priority! This is a breed with a high prey drive and one which doesn’t always do well with small pets.

Chilean Terriers are aloof when meeting new people, although are not normally aggressive as long as they’ve had adequate socialization. If they don’t like someone for whatever reason, they will bark continuously rather than attack. Their tendency to bark when something seems awry also makes them adept as watchdogs at home. While courageous when hunting, in general they are more laid back and less sharp than many other terrier breeds. Chileans enjoy and love their owners but they don’t tend to be overly clingy and can be fairly independent. They’re more likely to use their curiosity to explore and patrol the yard or home, while occasionally checking in with their family. They also aren’t overly loving with other dogs, and many are naturally dog aggressive. Chilean Terrier

The Chilean Terrier is most often seen as a tricolored dog – either black tri, chocolate tri or blue tri. Bicolors are less common but do occur – with dogs being either white and black, or white and tan. It is important that these terriers be primarily white, with colors being present only on the head and ears if at all possible. Most Chilean Terriers are born without a tail, or with a shortened tail however sometimes a dog will be born with a full length tail which isn’t faulted as long as it is carried correctly. This is a long-legged terrier with a fine build and folded ears set high on a triangular head.

The Chilean Terrier is happy to learn knew things and often enjoys training, particularly when he is started very young. Very intelligent, he can also be stubborn and does best with an experienced owner or trainer. He is highly independent and willful when there’s something he’d rather spend his time doing. Due to a tendency toward dominant behavior, training is very important for this breed and should be a non-negotiable part of responsible ownership!

The Chilean is an active dog that needs regular exercise every day – at least an hour total! While walks are great, he can also benefit from exercises that let him use his strong sense of smell as well. Make sure to give him activities that keep his legs moving and his brain working. Mental exercise is just as important as physical exercise for this little working terrier! Without these outlets, he can develop problem behaviors such as destructive chewing, excessive barking and extreme digging.

The Briquet Griffon Vendeen

The Briquet Griffon Vendeen is the medium-sized version of the four Griffon Vendeen breeds, Briquet meaning “medium” in French. They were used to hunt a variety of game – primarily roe deer, boar and occasionally also small game. As pack animals, they are specialized in hunting with (and living with) other hounds. Created right around the beginning of World War 1 by breeding down the larger Grand Griffon Vendeen into a smaller size, they are easier to manage than their larger cousins but are definitely still hunting dogs.

The Briquet is a courageous animal that is always ready and willing to charge into a hunt. Because they are frequently active, they need owners that are the same. These active owners should also be well-versed in dogs, preferably with scenthound experience as the breed isn’t recommended for novices. Furthermore, these hounds do best in homes that have large yards in which they can roam. Apartments are a no-go. The Briquet is known for forming strong bonds with his owners and those whom he loves. Because he enjoys people so much he makes for a terrible guard dog so those who are looking for this trait will need to look elsewhere.

The Briquet Griffon is a rare breed, although is recognized by the UKC here in the States. He can be identified by his rough wiry coat, outgoing personality, and of course his natural hunting traits. It is very common for him to do well in homes with other dogs (after all, this is a pack hunting breed). His social and friendly nature also makes him great around strangers and children alike, although he is not recommended in homes with very small children/toddlers. Cats and other small pets will often be regarded as prey. The Briquet is a sturdy and agile breed, with most of them possessing great health. That said, all breeds and mixes can face health issues and the Briquet is no exception. Issues more commonly seen in this hound include epilepsy, hypothyroidism, and ear infections. Typical lifespan is 11-12 years.

Briquets are known for their stubborn and independent natures which makes them more difficult than average when it comes to training. In fact, the breed standard itself actually describes them as being “not quick to obey”! They are intelligent, but not biddable – a trait that holds true for many scenthounds. These dogs benefit when training begins early on, rather than waiting until they are several years old. Not to say that one couldn’t train an older Briquet… only that it may raise the difficulty level even higher. Staying consistent, as well as keeping firm yet fair to the rules one sets, will help the dog learn. They tend to do better when given an over-abundance of praise and rewards. Finally these active hounds greatly benefit from having a job to do, which means obedience, hunting and other dog sports are all fantastic options to exercise both body and mind!

The Briquet Griffon can develop problematic behaviors such as excessive barking or digging if not given enough exercise or mental stimulation . As an active breed, he needs at least an hour minimum of exercise and this does not count time spent running in the yard (which is also important although should be a supplement to his other workouts). After all, he was bred to run for hours on end in France and has enough endurance to do so! Ideally, he should be given opportunities to hunt with his owner. If this isn’t possible, at least give him “hunting adjacent” scenarios on a regular basis such as free running in a fenced area, hikes with a long line, or lessons in a tracking class.

The colors of the Briquet Griffon Vendeen include white/black, white/orange, black/tan, tricolor or fawn with or without white markings. The nose can be either black or brown depending upon coat color. The coat itself is “fairly long” as described in the breed standard although the coarse texture makes it appear slightly shorter since it doesn’t drape like a silky coat would. It is also fairly thick. This coat doesn’t need to be trimmed however it does need regular care to keep it clean and to minimize shedding. The texture of the coat also makes it more susceptible to picking up burrs, sticks and grass which will then need to be plucked out by hand. This is a fun-loving, yet somewhat messy pup that needs the right owner so that he can thrive.

Photo by Alephalpha

The Dutch Smoushond

The Dutch Smoushond was originally used on farms to rid the stables of vermin such as rats and mice. A popular breed in the late 1800’s, they also enjoyed the role of being a “gentleman’s companion”. Despite their short popularity, they nearly went extinct during World War 2 and although they were saved (and in fact re-created) by fanciers of the breed, today they aren’t well known outside of the Netherlands. They are related to the same family of dogs in which the pinscher and the schnauzer breeds are a part of, even though they may not look it at first. Although their origins are shrouded in mystery, it is thought that they started out from yellow schnauzer stock, which was (and still is) an unrecognized color. Today, they are only recognized by the UKC in English-speaking countries – and of course the Dutch Kennel Club and FCI overseas.

Smoushonds are are a small, rather square breed that may look like a mutt at first glance. They are characterized by their medium-length wiry double coats, which give them a particularly unkempt appearance. Their faces are equally furnished with a wiry beard, mustache and eyebrows in the same yellow color as the rest of their bodies. They have triangular shaped ears which are high set but hang in the drop position with the front edge close to their cheeks.

The Dutch Smoushond likes to please his owners and enjoys learning. With his intelligent nature, he picks up obedience fairly quick although might take advantage of owners that provide zero consequences for bad behavior. Don’t forget that his terrier nature may make him want to be the boss, so while he shouldn’t be trained with undue force, he does need consistent rules and follow-through. As he is a sensitive fellow who can shut down with harsh corrections, make sure to always be fair with any corrections and keep training mostly fun and positive!

Smoushonds are friendly, charming and are fairly easy to care for. They have a great sense of humor and huge personalities. Many can live in apartments as long as they are given enough exercise and they can even make good watchdogs. In fact… some may need extra reminders not to get too carried away with their voices! They get along well with other dogs, cats and children alike and can be overall loving and loyal members of the family. While they form the closest bonds with their owners/families, they are outgoing toward strangers and enjoy meeting new people.

Dutch Smoushonds do need daily walks in order to stay in shape and keep their bodies and minds engaged. While walks are necessary, other exercise such as a game of fetch, a swim in the pool or even agility practice are also welcome additions to the routine. Making sure to provide this important care to the dog will help him to be healthy during his 13-15 years of life, so he should only live with individuals or families that are able to share an active lifestyle with their dog.

Photo by Hollandse_Smoushond_Amsterdam.jpg: ZeppWebderivative work

Smoushonds as a whole aren’t known for having behavioral quirks – and, although of course all dogs are individuals and raising them right is important to their mental health, most seem not to develop neuroses or aggressive tendencies. They are known for their steady temperaments and usually do just fine even in lively or even hectic family households – again, as long as their basic needs are met. When their needs aren’t being taken care of, they are capable of being destructive diggers or chewers. After all, despite their legendary temperaments they are still dogs!

The Podenco Valenciano

The Podenco Valenciano, or Xarnego Valenciano, is a hunting dog that was newly recognized by the Royal Canine Society of Spain. Classified as a primitive hunting hound by some and a sighthound by others (although they hunt using eyesight, hearing and smell), it is a popular breed in the Valencian community of Spain although are virtually unheard of in most of the world. In it’s infancy, the breed was often owned by the lower-class and was used to hunt for rabbits (particularly at night) so the families could have supper. This breed is rugged and healthy, and able to live in scorching hot climates with ease. Finally, along with their great hunting abilities and fantastic health, stories abound of the good nature of these loyal and faithful hounds.

Valencianos can appear in any of three different coat types: smooth, wire, or silky (longhaired) and is the only Mediterranean sighthound that has a longhaired variety of coat. Colors of the breed include cinnamon, black, fawn, or chocolate – all of which can either be solid-colored or mixed with white. They are medium in size and possess large, prick ears like other Podenco breeds. They have a thin yet athletic build and are very active and lively. They do need regular exercise! Podenco Valenciano

The Podenco Valenciano can be obedient and many love to learn tricks! In Spain, many are kept as pets because of their friendly natures and high biddibility. It is not uncommon for them to spend the day with their owners doing multiple tasks, which may or may not include hunting. This said, many are also used to hunt as well – usually small game although sometimes large game as well. Valencianos have been described as proud, self-assured, noble – and above all loyal. They enjoy spending quality time with their favorite people.

The Great Anglo-French White and Orange Hound

Also known as the Grand Anglo-Francais Blanc et Orange (yes, it’s a mouthful) – here in the United States, many call it the Great Anglo-French White and Orange Hound. This is a pack-hunting scenthound that was created by combining French hounds (particularly the Billy) with English Foxhounds. They were used to hunt deer and boar primarily, however would occasionally be used on smaller prey as well. Although they are large hounds, the name “Grand” actually refers not to their size, but their specialty of large game. This breed is related to several other breeds of Anglo-French, of which there are seven in total. In terms of the Great Anglo-French breeds in particular (of which there are three), the White and Orange variety is the rarest.

In France, where the Anglo-French White and Orange developed, he is kept primarily as a hunting breed and rarely as solely a companion animal. Most of this has to do with his almost endless energy making him a poor choice as a pet in the majority of homes. Without lots of exposure to hunting as well as heaps of both physical and mental stimulation, he can become incredibly bored and frustrated in most pet homes, leading to very destructive behavior. Although a loyal dog who enjoys spending time with his owner, historically that owner is a hunter with whom he spends long hours of his time bonding “in the field”.

The Great Anglo-French White and Orange Hound is a sturdily built dog but is quite athletic in his own right. He tends to be built tough and most individuals don’t have health problems beyond the regular scrapes or cuts that come from hunting. Physical characteristics include medium-length hanging ears, a large size with a deep chest, and of course the particular coloration that defines him as a breed. The coat is smooth, yet hard in texture and sheds an average amount. Grooming needs are minimal, with just routine brushing, ear cleaning and nail trimming to really worry about.

The Anglo-French White and Orange is fairly indifferent to strangers although does prefer to be around either other dogs or people as much as possible. This is a common trait of pack-hunting hounds. When left alone for long periods of time he is prone to howling… this said, he is prone to howling no matter what (those with close neighbors should steer clear of this breed)! While one might assume that he would be great to accompany you off-leash because of his pack mentality, this unfortunately couldn’t be further from the truth. This breed is big into roaming because of his vast hunt drive, and needs to be kept on leash or confined in a securely fenced area.

When it comes to training, the Great Anglo-French White and Orange Hound can be willful and even stubborn. No surprise there because he would much prefer hunting than just about anything else, training included. Furthermore he tends to be extra distracted when there are scents in the area that could be followed. This said, when the right tactics are used he can enjoy obedience training although an owner or trainer must be firm, consistent and patient. He is not recommended for first-time dog owners as he is far too difficult to train for a novice.

Anglo-French White and Orange Hounds do not make good guard dogs as it just isn’t in their nature. Neither is it in their nature to live in homes with cats. An appropriate home for this breed would be a country setting with another dog (or three) and no small animals. Children are fine as long as they aren’t too small (as they may otherwise get knocked over by the boisterous energy of this hound). Owners should be active and strong enough to handle a dog of this size and energy level, and willing to take the dog hunting on a regular basis. In France, many of these dogs live in outdoor kennels with dozens of other dogs to keep them company, and regularly taken on outdoor hunting excursions. This can be a very different lifestyle than a basic pet home, and is one that these dogs thrive in.

Photo by Alephalpha

The Patterdale Terrier

The Patterdale Terrier is a courageous working terrier breed, known for it’s intensity and passion when hunting. He hails from England and was created about a hundred years ago, mainly being derived from the Fell Terrier. He loves to work and will do his job almost endlessly if allowed. This said, he can also make an intelligent and loyal companion and is capable of being calm in the home compared to some other terrier breeds (when given proper exercise). He is gentle and affectionate and can even do well with kids as long as they are slightly older (over seven). This breed tends to bond very strongly to his owners and can even be a bit demanding of attention, but he makes a loving companion in the right home.

Patterdales love to please although can be difficult to train in formal obedience. This said, they need a job to keep them mentally stimulated. They also have high social needs (suffering from separation anxiety when they’re kept alone too often). Obedience training therefore helps to give them a mental outlet while spending quality time with their owners, so it’s a win-win for both owner and dog for once trained, they are easier to keep as house dogs. Despite their tenacity when working they can be surprisingly very sensitive to corrections so overly harsh or unfair methods should not be used. Furthermore they do also have an independent and stubborn streak so patience will be required, as well as a confident attitude.

A Patterdale Terrier must have regular daily exercise as well as lots of time to play. Because he has so much energy, a yard is highly recommended and the yard must be securely fenced and dig-proof. These little dogs are very bold, even when puppies, and will try to roam. Furthermore they also have high prey drives and will go after any small woodland creatures that they see or smell. Therefore, a home with a fenced yard is best while an apartment would not be the most ideal situation. Despite him being calm and low-energy in the home, because of his exercise requirements he wouldn’t do well in an inactive household or with owners unwilling to spend time keeping him mentally stimulated. Patterdale Terrier

The Patterdale Terrier is not a good match for a first-time dog owner. They require a lot of attention and training in order to be the well-behaved little terriers that they are capable of being. When the work isn’t put in, they can be destructive. Furthermore this is a big dog in a small body with an attitude that may be difficult for someone without dog (especially terrier) experience!

Patterdales tend to get along with other dogs although do not make good companions for small pets like hamsters or rabbits. They can be intent on killing anything small that they see and they take this job very seriously. The more rodent-like, the more interest they tend to have in snuffing it out! As they were also used to hunt slightly larger animals like foxes as well, many members of this breed are also not cat-safe. Some Patterdales will get into fights with other dogs, even other housemates, if they are bored and under-exercised so it’s extra important that owners are willing and able to put in the work needed to keep them mentally and physically fulfilled so that fighting does not happen.

Patterdales can appear in one of three coat varieties: smooth, broken or rough. All coat types are harsh and wiry to the touch and very dense. The coats are made to be weatherproof and keep the dog warm and protected in the elements. Besides doing well in cold weather, this breed also fares well in hot weather as well as long as he is given adequate shelter/shade and water. Coat color can be either black (the most popular color), red, chocolate, grizzle, black/tan or bronze. All coat varieties shed very little, and grooming is fairly simple. Keep in mind that the wiry coat is not hypoallergenic. Regardless of coat type or color, the Patterdale is a delightful companion in the right home!

The Griffon Fauve de Bretagne

The Griffon Fauve de Bretagne was created in the 13th century. As might be surmised from his name, he is related to the Basset Fauve although is a bigger dog with longer legs. He is one of the oldest French scenthound breeds, and was originally used to hunt wolves. As the numbers of wolves steadily declined in the 19th century, the Griffon Fauve become more scare in France as well. While still rare in the United States today, his popularity is again gaining in his home country where he is lauded for his impeccable temperament and ability to get along well with both other dogs and people.

The Griffon Fauve is an immensely loyal breed who wants to be close to his owners as much as possible. Despite being courageous when hunting, he is affectionate and loving at home and makes a great dog for families. He is gentle and patient with children, although a young excitable dog may accidentally knock over a small toddler. He loves to play with older kids (and of course adults) and can do so for hours if given the chance! Although not normally a big barker, this breed can also make a good watchdog as he will alert to people coming to the door… although at the same time will welcome all strangers into the home so is probably not the best guard dog.

The GFB is a medium sized breed but he needs plenty of exercise. At least an hour a day of walking or jogging should be considered bare minimum, while 2 hours would be ideal. In addition, a yard to run around in would complete the perfect setup for this breed (fully fenced, and escape-proof). As might be expected, apartments aren’t a good living situation for these high-stamina hunting dogs! Without enough exercise he can quickly become destructive and frustrating to live with, so should only be owned by those who are willing and able to put in the work. On the other hand, individuals who have been given enough exercise will be calm and collected in the home – and will even curl up on the sofa to watch tv with their owners!

The Griffon Fauve de Bretagne can be identified by his long, hanging ears and coarse shaggy coat which is always fawn in color (fauve means fawn). Take note that although he has a rough, wiry coat it does still shed unlike some other wirehaired breeds, although shedding is on the light side. His coat is medium maintenance and will need to be brushed about once a week. In addition to being brushed – without being stripped at least twice a year, the coat will turn soft so this is an additional grooming step that should be taken. Trim nails weekly, regularly check and clean ears, and keep an eye on his teeth and he should be all set!

The GFB lives an average of 12-13 years and doesn’t have too many health problems although hip dysplasia is occasionally seen. This is a robust breed that doesn’t normally require a lot of vet care as long as he is provided proper attention and maintenance. He can get ear infections if his ears aren’t checked and cleaned regularly, but this is easy to prevent for diligent owners.

Like all scenthounds, the Griffon Fauve has a great sense of smell and can get so caught up in following an interesting scent that he can temporarily “forget” obedience commands. In addition to his high prey drive, he can also be stubborn and slow to learn commands in the first place. Owners will need to have a lot of patience when training a member of this breed. In addition, training sessions should be broken up into lots of short shifts throughout the day rather than one long session. Keep things fun for the dog, but don’t be afraid to be firm either – just don’t resort to unfair harsh corrections or he will shut down. Finally, start early in puppyhood with both training and socialization for the best outcome.

Photo by Alephalpha

The Mountain Feist

The Mountain Feist is a squirrel-hunting dog, bred almost entirely for performance rather than appearance. While some also hunt other small game such as racoon, rabbit or birds, their specialty is squirrel. Feists, as a group, were bred from hounds crossed with terriers for the purpose of being low-maintenance hunters and farm dogs that “pack a lot of punch” in a small package. These small, often vocal dogs are lively and energetic on the hunt. The Mountain Feist is derived from the Treeing Feist, and is a newly recognized breed to the UKC although is not recognized by any other large registry. They have been placed in the terrier group.

There is a lot of variation in the Mountain Feist breed, and one will notice differences between groups of dogs coming from different regions of the country. This is because these dogs are bred to a much looser standard, and unlike most purebred dogs, outcrossing to other breeds to get a superior hunting dog is an acceptable practice. Hunting ability is the most-prized outcome. While temperament can also differ from dog to dog, most Mountain Feist are affectionate, happy and loving towards their owners. They may be aloof and suspicious of strange humans.

The Mountain Feist, when inside, enjoys watching out the windows and alerting to the presence of both humans and animals (making him a good watchdog). An inborn chaser, he does not tend to do well with a family cat or other small pets. While he may play a game of ball, he is not the most playful of dogs as he much prefers sniffing, chasing and hunting. He is curious about the world around him, particularly in anything that has to do with… finding and chasing game.

Mountain Feist are energetic and need plenty of exercise. Ideally, he would be taken hunting on a regular basis, supplemented with long walks on days where no hunting is taking place (a bare minimum of an hour a day). As he doesn’t mind either hot or cold weather, he will demand to go out even when you might not want to! These active terriers stay energetic into their older years, and considering that they live on average 14-16 years, it is a big commitment to own one! Prospective owners should make sure they are both willing and able to provide as much exercise as is needed. Despite their small size, they are agile and quick so an owner must be in good physical health to keep up!

Mountain Feist are easy to groom and only need the occasional brushing. A once-a-week brushing session should be more than sufficient, and bathing only needs to happen occasionally. Keep in mind that although the coat is short and smooth, the breed is not hypoallergenic. While they were bred to be low-maintenance, this mainly has to do with grooming and doesn’t apply to other requirements such as exercise needs and space required. What can be considered low-maintenance for a hunter is not the same thing for the average pet owner. Unless the dog is taken out hunting regularly, they would probably be a horrible idea for someone living in an apartment.

The Mountain Feist is intelligent and easy to train as long as one is used to working with hunting breeds. This said, they can be stubborn and have a few challenging traits such as requiring extra work when it comes to off-leash training. Overall, however, they have plenty of energy and enthusiasm when given a job to do such as obedience, agility, or (of course) hunting. Like other high-intensity, highly active breeds, this energy must be channeled into training because if left untouched can make for a frustrating and destructive companion.

Mountain Feist are not recommended for novice dog owners for a number of reasons. First, their energy levels as mentioned above. Second, they can be protective of the people whom they know and love. Third, their high prey drive means that they must be kept in a fenced area or on a leash when out in public. If they see a squirrel in a park and aren’t confined to a leash, it is quite possible that they may climb a tree to get at it! This level of passion is not something that the average pet owner (let alone a novice 0wner) can usually handle.

The Mountain Feist can live in a family with children. They are sturdy enough to not be easily hurt and don’t tend to be as reactive or snappy with kids as other terrier breeds. This said, all children should be socialized with the dog and kids should never be allowed to tease or hurt the dog (as should be the case with any breed). They are also less scrappy than other terriers and can get along with most other dogs, so living in multi-dog households isn’t normally a problem.

By Mgray84 - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=17018464

Photo by Mgray84

The French White and Black Hound

The French White and Black Hound is a scenthound used for hunting large game in packs. Known for his loud voice (which he uses with frequency) and his tireless energy, he does not make the best pet for just anyone. Combine this with his high prey drive and tendency to chase small animals including cats, and he is best suited to a hunting home. Barring that, owners with extensive scenthound experience who can provide him plenty of physical outlets. He can make a great family pet and live nicely in a home, but his needs must be met and his idiosyncrasies understood.

As a pack hunting hound, the White and Black enjoys living with other dogs. His friendly nature and easygoing attitude with them makes him easy to integrate into a multiple-dog household (although tiny breeds may be seen as prey by these large hunters). He also gets along well with children and most humans in general. Some can be slightly aloof but aggression is not the norm with this breed at all. Although too friendly to function as a guard dog, he can make a good watchdog since he enjoys using his voice to make announcements. The majority are fairly social. With their families, they are extremely loyal and even playful.

The intelligent French White and Black is willing to please and can be trained in obedience but may have a very hard time when distracted, particularly if that distraction is a prey animal! Hunting is his favorite pastime, and one in which he will do without any training whatsoever. For those owners who insist on teaching obedience, however (and all dogs should learn the basics), keep lessons short and sweet! Use plenty of praise and rewards to show this hound that training can be fun. Their stubborn and independent natures make them poor choices for first-time dog owners.

In terms of exercise, the White and Black Hound is built to run for miles without tiring! This means they must be given lots of physical activity on a daily basis such as hikes and long jogs. As long as this is taken care of, they are calm and pleasant in the house. If not exercised enough they can become destructive, loud(er) and generally hyperactive. While having access to a yard is a big plus, either way they also need to be taken out on leash for their daily adventures. Plan to spend at least an hour out on each excursion! For reasons which should be obvious, this is by no means an apartment breed.

The French White and Black Hound is an exceptionally healthy breed with a great long lifespan for their size (averaging 13-15 years). Ear infections are the most commonly seen condition, but regular cleanings and maintenance checks can keep problems from arising. The breed is also very low-maintenance as far as grooming goes and very rarely requires baths (although they can shed heavily and should be brushed once or twice a week to control this).

The White and Black is a rare breed with only about 2,000 dogs registered in the FCI. In the United States they are recognized by the UKC but are rarely seen. The majority of these hounds are (not surprisingly) in France. There are three French Hound (Chien Francais) breeds, also including the Tricolor and the White and Orange. All three breeds are very similar but do differ in temperament besides the most obvious difference of color variations.

Photo by Abujoy

The Cretan Hound

The Cretan Hound is a Greek breed, also sometimes referred to as the Kritikos Lagonikos. It is considered by some to be the oldest European dog breed! A very rare dog, he is recognized only in his home country of Greece as well as Germany. Considered by some to be a sighthound and by others to be a primitive hunting breed (of which there is a great overlap), he does have many sighthound physical characteristics including hare feet, a long muzzle with tight lips, and a lean frame with prominent hip bones. The tail is a distinctive breed feature, always being carried in a curve around the back (either tight or fairly loose). Another important feature are the prick ears that are able to move in any direction including folding back on themselves.

Cretans are quick and agile, and possess great stamina. They hunt both by sight as well as by scent and are known for their superb hunting skills and intense drive. If they are chasing something it can be next to impossible to call them off, so care must be taken not to let them off leash in unfenced areas. When they move – either in hunt mode or relaxed – it is always in an elegant manner. They have a curiosity about the world around them and will seek to check new things out, although will usually do so gradually and methodically, particularly with new people who they just met.

The Cretan Hound is affectionate, if not somewhat humble, to his owners as well as being polite in the home. He is clean and easy to keep as long as his needs are met. He gets along well with children and other dogs although will chase cats and small animals! The breed will bark to alert when someone comes to the door but otherwise is surprisingly quiet in everyday life. Overall this is a pleasant and easygoing companion which is tolerant to a wide variety of situations. The Cretan loves to be around others although does need early socialization in order to “function well in society”. At home, he can suffer from separation anxiety if living with an owner that is often gone, so those who work long hours would not make a good match.

Cretan Hounds are medium in size but don’t make good dogs for apartments because they need lots of room to run. While daily walks are important, they also need regular access to a large fenced area. Quite simply, they live to run! As a fairly active dog, they need exposure to activities which challenge their minds as well as bodies. This can be accomplished with games or puzzles at home or exciting adventures outside such as jogging along with a bike! Without stimulation they can become bored and develop behavior problems. Unlike related breeds, they don’t do well with a sedentary lifestyle.

Cretans can be easy to train for those that know how to work with stubborn attitudes. They are intelligent but also very adept at getting what they want… make sure it’s something that you want them to do! A lazy attitude about rules will make the training more difficult so be prepared to be somewhat firm while staying fair. Overly harsh training will definitely cause this hound to shut down and stop working.

Cretan Hounds are easy to groom with their smooth coats but they do shed a moderate amount. Baths need only be occasional unless desired by the owner. Make sure to check and clean their ears regularly, however, as large prick ears can be prone to collecting dirt and grime. As with all dogs, brush teeth and trim the nails regularly. Finally, brush the coat with a soft bristle brush at least once weekly to keep it shiny!

Photo by Fainomenon