The Swiss Hound, also known as the Schweizer Laufhund, specializes in hunting hare although has been known to also hunt roe, rabbit, fox and even wild boar. This very old breed has four distinct varieties, separated by color: Bernese (tricolor), Jura (black/tan), Lucerne (blue) and Schwyz (white/orange) – but all are one breed with a single standard. Swiss Hounds are heavily influenced by French scenthounds that were brought to Switzerland at one point in time, although they are a distinct breed all to themselves.

Swiss Hounds are very active! They also have plenty of endurance ability and therefore need lots of exercise. This rare breed is kept mainly by hunters and isn’t as common as a pet, which means that most (if not all) bloodlines have a lot of energy! Because of their high hunting drives, they are also apt to follow interesting scents (with much passion) regardless of their owners wishes. They are also more likely to chase running animals and/or moving objects. This isn’t really the type of dog to take jogging off-leash in a city. They do much better with country living and plenty of wide-open spaces to run.

Some Swiss Hounds can be escape artists, particularly if they live in an area where “temptations” exist (such as rabbits and other prey animals). A very secure fenced area for the dog is paramount for this breed to keep them from getting hit by a car! Even though they love spending time with their owners, the smell or sight of a wild animal will cause most to immediately revert to hunting mode. In order to let them reach their average age of 13-14 years, make sure they are always kept in a safely fenced yard or on leash when in a potentially dangerous setting.

The Swiss Hound is characterized by his very long ears and medium-sized build. He is also characterized by his loud, melodious voice! Prospective owners should be aware of this latter trait and make sure that will fit into their lifestyle! Other than the typical scenthound quirks (voice, independent nature and prey drive), this is a sweet breed that is gentle with children and patient with other dogs. A friendly and social nature means he makes friends wherever he goes. Do take care when introducing this dog to small pets such as birds or pet rodents… for obvious reasons.

Swiss Hounds are known for their independent natures, which means training may be more difficult – particularly for novice scenthound owners. Furthermore they can be prone to testing their owner and/or “forgetting” obedience commands when they don’t feel like doing something. Make sure to utilize a trainer who is used to working with similar breeds and who can guide you through what to do when this happens. When given mental stimulation through obedience training (as well as physical stimulation through exercise), the breed is calm and well-behaved in the home. Just make sure that you start obedience training while the dog is still young, and stay on a consistent training schedule!

Swiss Hounds don’t require a ton of regular upkeep. They tend to housebreak easily and aren’t known for having excessive healthy problems which would require frequent vet visits. They also only require minimal grooming – a daily brush-through of the coat is a quick chore for this smooth coated dog. Otherwise make sure to clean the ears and trim the nails weekly, and give a bath only when needed. When their needs are fulfilled, and when in the right home, this uncommon breed can make an excellent companion.

The Porcelaine is a high-spirited scenthound from France, developed for hunting and tracking both small and large game. This medium-sized hound is one of the oldest French scenthounds (if not the very oldest) still around today. Records of the breed date back to the 1700’s! This is a rare breed in the United States, only recently becoming recognized by the UKC (in 2016) and AKC’s FSS program (in 2017).

Porcelaines have a number of good qualities which make them not only great hunting dogs, but awesome pets as well! They are hardy and healthy dogs not often afflicted by health issues, although hip dysplasia, eye and joint problems are occasionally seen. They are also easy-keepers and tend to crate-train and housebreak fairly swiftly. Easygoing and calm in the home, they aren’t prone to excessive barking (although when they do vocalize it is definitely a hound-y, melodic bay). Porcelaines do not require a lot of grooming and the coat only needs a quick rubdown with a grooming mitt every week at most. Make sure to clip their nails and clean the ears frequently, especially because long-eared dogs are more prone to ear infections.  Finally, this is a beautiful and elegant breed that will inspire comments wherever they go!

The Porcelaine originated from a series of very intelligent French and English scenthounds and is therefore quite clever himself – albeit also fairly independent and strong-minded. He has a high prey drive and will usually opt to sniff out or chase prey rather than participate in a training session if heavily distracted. Keep this in mind during training sessions, and be aware that without lots of advanced off-leash obedience training he will need to be kept on leash at all times! He will also need to be kept in a fenced yard and not allowed to roam. When trained, many are good candidates for various lines of work such as service dog or therapy dog work. They also enjoy other jobs and sports such as search and rescue, tracking, conformation, mantrailing, or… obviously hunting.

The Porcelaine is outgoing with people (strangers, friends, children, etc.) as well as other dogs, most likely due to his pack instincts. This said, he can be prone to jealousy issues so an owner in a multi-dog household should know what to look for and how to curtail any possessive behaviors. Porcelaines enjoy being around their people and want to take part in everything! They develop strong bonds with their owners and have great desires to please. They are very affectionate and not prone to aggression or fearfulness as long as socialized correctly. When their owners come home from work or other outings, many will “sing” in happiness!

Although generally calm in the home, the Porcelaine does require regular exercise – and not just a small amount! Without enough, he can become overly energetic if cooped up too long! Keep in mind the breed is surprisingly strong and will need training to keep from pulling on the leash during walks. Once he learns the basics he is usually gentle and easy to manage on lead. He appreciates (and requires) long walks, jogs or hikes and does best with athletic, outdoorsy owners.

It should go without saying that the Porcelaine is not the best candidate for apartment life and can end up becoming hyper and prone to behavior problems in an apartment lifestyle. He needs a home with a yard and room to roam, as well as lots of exercise with his owner, in order to develop correctly. Neither is he a good fit for homes with cats or other small pets because of his high prey drive (although smaller dogs are usually OK). In the wrong home, he can become frustrating to live with but in the right home, he can easily thrive! As with all breeds, do your homework.

Photo By Pleple2000

The Drever, with his steady temperament yet strong-minded nature, makes a faithful companion to those who can give him what he needs. A dwarf breed, he is small yet sturdy in stature. Like many other scenthounds, he is friendly and playful with other dogs and doesn’t normally have a problem getting along in groups. This affable nature extends to people and children as well as he tends to get along with everyone, making him a good candidate for therapy dog work! Shyness and aggression aren’t normally seen in the breed, especially as long as the dog has been socialized.

Drevers have a number of “scenthound quirks”. They can tend toward being loud, especially when there is a lot going on around them. They are also natural diggers. Finally (and often most importantly to know), they will follow their noses into danger if not properly supervised. This means they must be kept on leash and/or in a fenced yard at all times. Keep in mind that they were developed as hunting dogs and not companion animals. This means that the dog’s hunting abilities were far more important than their abilities to live in a city or suburban environment. While it is possible to keep a Drever in an apartment, make sure to give him lots of time outdoors on a leash, and hope your neighbors don’t mind the barking!

The Drever is fairly easy to keep. They do not require a lot of grooming, and are also not a high energy breed. As long as they are given regular exercise they are able to chill for long periods of time, especially if their owner is nearby. Don’t let their couch potato traits fool you into thinking they don’t need any exercise, however. These hunting dogs love to be given outdoor activities, particularly ones that challenge their noses and otherwise allow them to do what they were bred to do! They can be taken hunting or used to track wounded animals. They also enjoy dog sports such as scent work, lure coursing, agility, barn hunt, conformation and rally! Meet their basic needs and give them a solid routine and you will find they are not difficult to live with as long as you can put up with their quirks mentioned above.

When it comes to training, Drevers prefer to hunt more than anything! They may become very stubborn and determined if given a sit command while they’re trying to follow a scent outside. An owner must be patient and work on gradually upping the distraction level little by little. Don’t teach brand new commands outside under heavy distractions – start slow and build. Don’t take their difficult nature as reason not to train… they absolutely must learn the basics (at least)! They are intelligent and their brains must be challenged, which makes obedience a necessity.

The Drever is a very health breed, often living to the age of 14-16. There are no frequent health issues seen in the breed. Furthermore this is both a sturdy and agile dog that can run, jump and play with the best of them! Despite his short legs, he is also surprisingly quick and has a good deal of stamina, especially when hunting. This hardworking dog will be with you for a long time, so expect lots of affection, silliness and energy for years to come.

Although a rare breed in the United States, the Drever is very popular in his home country of Sweden, particularly among hunters. He is regarded as a powerhouse among hunting breeds, with an excellent nose and fantastic endurance. While not originally bred for companionship, the breed can surprisingly adapt to life as a pet quite well! Prospective owners should still do their homework – life with a Drever is markedly different than living with a toy breed – but it is definitely possible and even easier than many other scenthound breeds.

Photo By Svenska Mässan from Sweden

The Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound is an adaptable hunting dog and faithful companion. He is known for his tracking abilities and is able to find injured game even when the trail has gone cold. Aloof with strangers, this German breed nonetheless has a balanced temperament and a “good head on his shoulders”. The breed has a confident nature yet will listen to his owner for direction when needed. He is steady both physically as well as mentally – making an excellent dog for an owner who can meet his rather substantial needs.

The Bavarian is active, yet when properly exercised he is calm and easy to take out in public. His medium-sized build is athletic and he is able to handle as much vigorous exercise as you can give him! He doesn’t always fare well in crowded city life without lots of effort on the part of the owner (he prefers frequent access to nature and the great outdoors). Despite being used for tracking long distances and other utilitarian work, he should be allowed to live in the home with the rest of the family. Although a working dog, he is not a kennel or outside-only breed.

Mountain Scent Hounds are working hunters and must regularly do what they were bred to do. This is not a dog for someone looking for “just a pet”. He is even too much for some hunters! The breed is frequently owned by those who give the dog a daily job, such as game wardens. Prospective owners must take this into account to decide whether or not they can provide what this dog needs. If they are not hunters themselves, they must be willing to provide daily activities (such as tracking, scent work, search and rescue and/or training in other dog sports) along with increased exercise.

Bavarians are intelligent and they need training in order to keep their minds occupied. If they aren’t given this, they can become very destructive! The social aspect of the breed means that they crave attention – even negative attention is better than nothing. Better to train the dog in obedience and/or other sports in order to fulfill that need rather than let them destroy your belongings! The breed works best when given plenty of motivation and praise for doing things right.

Although smooth-coated, the Bavarian Mountain does shed fairly extensively and requires frequent brushing. Other than this, grooming is fairly simple. When it comes to vet care – most members of the breed are healthy although epilepsy and hip dysplasia are occasionally seen. Prospective owners should do their homework and only buy from a reputable breeder who health tests and can tell you the issues in their lines (unfortunately there are no tests for idiopathic epilepsy, however a good breeder should know what is in their line). When well cared for, many members of the breed live to 15 or beyond.

Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds can be escape artists. All fencing must be secured both top and bottom. These hounds normally either try to escape out of boredom (see above) or because they spy an animal outside the fence. Like all scenthounds, they have a high prey drive and desire to hunt. On a related note – they may not make the best choice for people who own cats or small animals. Families with kids and/or other dogs are usually OK.

The Bavarian Mountain is a fairly quiet breed although can be prone to barking if left alone for long periods of time. They aren’t known for being watchdogs, nor for being guard dogs as they don’t tend to show any sort of aggression even when pushed. These dogs are lovers and not fighters, as evidenced by their strong loyalty and affectionate nature towards those whom they know, love and trust. When it comes down to it, they live to work and hunt with their owners – everything else comes second.

Photo CC BY-SA 3.0

The Hanoverian Scenthound has an independent personality and tends to have a relaxed attitude about life. A faithful companion and steady hunting dog, he will become engaged when allowed to do what he was meant to do – hunt. This German breed is particularly adept at tracking and can do this task for hours on end if needed. The original purpose was to track and locate wounded game. If he is never given the opportunity to track or hunt in some fashion he may develop temperament issues or even neurotic behaviors. Hanoverians are not the best dogs for first-time dog owners.

Hanoverian Scenthounds do require daily exercise although not an overly excessive amount. The smaller the living space is, the more they will need to be given walks, jogs or similar activities. Those that aren’t given enough can become excessive barkers and overly destructive dogs – so exercise is definitely non-negotiable. The breed does best with people who are active themselves and want to take the dog with them on weekend hikes and excursions, in addition to daily walks. They really don’t make the best apartment dogs. As they also require regular mental exercise, providing them with opportunities to hunt and/or track will go a long way towards meeting the needs of the Hanoverian.

Hanoverians are a low-shedding breed that require very little coat care beyond the occasional bath and semi-regular quick brush-out. Using a grooming mitt or similar tool will stimulate new hair growth while pulling out dead hair, and really make the characteristic red or brindle coat shine! Beyond nail care and dental care, the dog also needs his ears checked and cleaned regularly as hanging ears are more prone to infection. Other than this, the dog is considered “wash and wear” (very easy to groom).

When it comes to training, the Hanoverian can be on the more difficult side because of his independent nature. Furthermore the dog likely won’t listen to an owner that is wishy-washy and unable to provide structure or enforce overall house rules. The breed pairs best with those who are able to take charge and establish their leadership position. It’s also important to note that this is a slow-maturing breed that may take a few years to fully come into their own. This is not to say that the dog can’t be trained until they are three years old (waiting that long will cause problems, to say the least), but it does mean that one must be patient and persistent.

Hanoverian Scenthounds are medium-sized dogs in height, but powerful and sturdy. When playing or overly excited, they have the propensity to bowl over small children (or even delicate adults) so they are not really recommended for those with toddlers. Because of their prey drive they are also not a great match for those who have cats or other small animals. They do tend to get along well with other dogs, however. With multiple people in a home, they will be friendly toward everyone but will choose one person in particular with whom they will bond the closest. With strangers they can be aloof and discerning. They also have a protective instinct and must be extensively socialized in puppyhood so that the instinct doesn’t morph into overly fearful or aggressive behavior.

Photo (Hannoverscher Schweisshund, Charlie, selbst fotographiert), CC BY-SA 3.0

The Transylvanian Hound is a cheerful, good-natured breed around people, yet gutsy and spirited when it comes to hunting. He can be strong-minded when he catches the scent of a prey animal. This Hungarian scenthound has a playful side and enjoys being around the family, yet he can become a decent guard dog if danger arises (he doesn’t go looking for trouble but will show his brave side if necessary). Due to his adaptable nature, he can be at home living in a large home or even an apartment if given enough exercise (and he does need a LOT of exercise – at least an hour a day, and more if living in a small space without a yard).

The Transylvanian is a tough breed, capable of living in a variety of temperatures and terrains. Having somewhat of a territorial nature, a Transylvanian who spends a lot of time outside is more likely to bark at strangers who wander by unless/until he gets to know that person. Keep in mind, however, that this pack dog is much happier living with people than spending his life in solitude. He is more of a hunting breed than a sentry, and becomes a very loyal companion when allowed to become part of the family!

At home, the Transylvanian Hound is affectionate and easy-going and gets along with children, other dogs, and even cats. This breed was more commonly used to sniff out and then “drive” game toward the hunter rather than kill, so they don’t have the same kill drive as many other hounds. Another difference that sets them apart from other scenthounds – they don’t tend to howl and are generally fairly quiet, especially once they have learned the regular routine of the household.

The Transylvanian is an intelligent dog who is adept at problem-solving. An independent thinker, he is more likely to figure out how to get what he wants than to follow direct orders. Obedience training must involve plenty of motivation and care must be taken so he doesn’t get bored. This breed is also likely to disregard commands in lieu of following an interesting scent – so unless/until the dog has had extensive off-leash training he must be kept on leash at all times! Owners should have plenty of patience when it comes to training, as this is a stubborn breed.

The Hamiltonstovare is known as a versatile hound that can hunt with the best of them, but come home at the end of the day and be a great pet. That said, the breed is not for just any owner. Prospective buyers should realize that this Swedish scenthound will choose to follow his nose over just about any other option. Furthermore, the breed is not quiet whatsoever (those that love the breed call their distinctive baying “singing”). Do you research to make sure this breed fits your lifestyle!

When it comes to training, the Hamilton can be quite stubborn. They aren’t often seen in high levels of obedience competition since they can be difficult to train. This said, they tend to be quite food motivated and are capable of learning. Since they are agile and athletic, agility might be an avenue to work them in! Other areas that Hamiltons enjoy working are tracking, carting, nosework, dock diving, lure coursing, conformation, weight pull or barn hunt. They especially enjoy jobs in which they can use their bodies, their nose and/or their personalities (they make excellent therapy dogs and some even work as service dogs). Many get bored with the strict routines of competitive obedience, and would much prefer either hunting or the more physical dog sports mentioned above.

The Hamiltonstovare needs, and enjoys, plenty of room to run. As a hunting animal, he was bred to work for long hours and needs plenty of exercise. Make sure that any area he is running in is fully fenced or you may lose your hound once he catches the scent (or sight) of something interesting! (although scenthounds, he can be triggered by sight as well) Although they can be trained to come when called, the vast majority will ignore the command under the great distraction of a prey animal in the vicinity. Frequent training and lots of distraction-proofing can lessen the chances of him ignoring a recall, but many owners aren’t able to commit to the work. It is best just to keep him on leash or in fenced areas, “just in case”. In addition to free running time, he should be given multiple walks a day and/or other types of exercise with his owner.

Hamiltons shed very little,  have little to no odor, and are easy to maintain with barely any grooming required. A “lazy animal” when inside the house, they aren’t hard to take care of – assuming the owner is aware of their quirks. They are long-lived and fairly healthy, often living 13-14 years and sometimes up to 17! As the “cherry on top”, this is a striking and regal breed with a beautiful tricolor coat pattern. Despite their many perks, this medium-sized breed is very rare in America. It can take a while to get a puppy – whether choosing to wait for a litter in America or importing a dog from overseas. The best homes for this breed include people who are active and have at least some experience with scenthounds, understanding their quirks and willing to go the extra mile when it comes to training.

The Hamiltonstovare is a friendly and extroverted dog who rarely has a problem with anybody (except perhaps cats). As might be imagined from his laid-back and friendly temperament, this is not a guard dog! Extremely perceptive and sensitive, they form close bonds with the people in their family and become very devoted. Hamiltons are social creatures that don’t do well when left alone frequently – and can become destructive and loud when this happens! They can do well in homes with children although may be prone to knocking down toddlers when excited. They also get along great with other dogs despite the fact that they weren’t used as pack hunting hounds.

Photo By Sannse

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne has a happy-go-lucky personality but can be strong-willed when he wants to be. This small French scenthound has a determined mindset and courageous attitude when it comes to hunting, and will choose to hunt above any other option. This means that although he can be clever, training might take a backseat when a rabbit or squirrel pops up in the yard! When not distracted by the smell or sight of game, he is willing to please and quite a cheerful companion. Fauves are gentle and loyal toward their owners, possessing a soft temperament without being shy. They can be very affectionate. Aggression is not seen in the breed.

Take note – The Basset Fauve is an energetic fellow who can be surprisingly strong and quick for his size! Although he tends to be calm in the house (he’ll lay down and watch tv with the family for hours), he has much more energy outside. Some require only a medium amount of physical exhertion while others need a much higher level of exercise. Exercise can come in many different forms, including a game of fetch in the backyard as this breed loves to play and romp, or even a hike through the woods! It is necessary that, when off-leash, the dog be kept in a fenced yard because of his high prey drive and tendency to wander.

The Fauve needs early training and socialization which should be continued throughout his life. Without this stimulation he may find other ways to occupy his time which are… less likely to please his owner. It should be noted that the breed is not easy to train, so patience and calm persistence is necessary. Many are very food-motivated which can help entice the dog to learn – just make sure that you are using the food as a reward for a job well done rather than a bribe! As mentioned above, they will follow their noses when training outside and can be easily distracted by the presence of animals. This is not to say the dogs cannot be trained around animal distractions, but an owner or trainer must put in the work to get them to this point. 

The BFDB is friendly both with other dogs as well as children and therefore makes for a good companion in many types of homes – even being amiable to apartment-living. He is also extremely outgoing and friendly even to guests and strangers. He tends to be quiet – at least as long as there aren’t any woodland creatures for him to chase and bark at. He is also easy to groom and care for as his wiry coat doesn’t tend to tangle or even collect dirt (although longer-haired individuals may need semi-regular coat stripping). The breed sheds only seasonally, and not too excessively.

The downsides to this breed? Besides their training difficulties, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne might have problems living with cats or other small “pocket pets”, depending upon the prey drive of the individual dog. They are also not hypo-allergenic like some other wirehaired breeds. Finally, they may be slower to housebreak than other dogs. These factors combined with their higher energy levels mean they may not make the best pets for novice dog owners.

The Basset Fauve tends to be fairly healthy although responsible breeders should screen for PRA (an eye disorder), heart issues, epilepsy and other potential issues. The breed is fairly rare here in the United States but more common overseas. For the most part, breeders both local and foreign are doing health tests and working towards keeping the BFDB as healthy as possible, but it is still up to the puppy buyer to ask questions and verify the health of the lines. Luckily, not only are most Fauves healthy but also quite long-lived, sometimes living up to (or beyond) 16 years of age!

The American Leopard Hound is one of the oldest treeing breeds in the United States, although he is still considered rare both in this country and in others. This is an active breed with a strong hunting instinct and an even stronger nose. He hunts a variety of game, not only raccoons but also squirrel, bobcats and even bears! Because of this, he tends to be brave and won’t back down easily. He has a friendly nature and gets along well with everyone, although does possess a protective nature, especially towards children in his family.

American Leopards can make a good dog for a novice owner provided the owner is very active. They get along well with other dogs and people of all ages, are low-maintenance and low shedding, and surprisingly easy to train for a scenthound. A higher than average prey drive and higher than average energy level does mean that they can’t be owned by just any person, however – whether novice or experienced. A home with a cats, for example, may be riskier with this hunting dog. As with any breed, it is important to make sure your lifestyle fits that of the breed you are interested in!

The often spotted or marbled coat pattern is one of the recognizing features of the American Leopard, however he actually comes in a wide array of colors and patterns! Along with nine different colors acceptable, he can come in either solid, leopard or brindle patterns. A majority of dogs are actually solid colored, which means one can’t count on identifying the breed by “wild markings” alone. Eyes may be dark or blue… or one of each! The coat is always short and double-coated.

The Leopard has a long lifespan for his large size, often living from 12-15 years old. This is a very durable breed, able to withstand both hot and cold temperatures with relative ease (provided he has been allowed to get accustomed to it). Health issues are rare in the breed, with the exception of dogs bred from two leopard-patterned (merle) parents. Merles should never be bred together, as these litters often produce puppies that are blind or deaf. Run far away from any breeder that utilizes this practice!

Leopard Hounds are not couch potatoes and do require extensive exercise! They are known for their stamina and do better with higher impact activities than just a simple walk around the block once a day. Take advantage of their natural agility and get them into a variety of different exercise routines! Because of their high energy level, they do not make good pets for those who live in apartments. Ideally, most would love a home with a hunter, especially if it involves a large property but they can get by living in a neighborhood with a nice backyard. Most importantly, they need a job to do that satisfies them both physically as well as mentally.

American Leopard Hounds are clever dogs that are generally very easy to train. They greatly enjoy pleasing their masters! This said, as with all scenthounds, they can get easily distracted by interesting smells and must have a good foundation of obedience. Teaching “watch me” and other focus-on-me games will help to teach the dog to tune his attention to you when distractions get strong.

Some Leopards tend to bark a lot, especially if something has caught their eye (or their nose). Barking when people arrive at the door is common, at which point they’ll assess whether they consider the person a threat or not. The bark itself tends to sound very intimidating and will scare away most would-be intruders. While friendly with welcomed guests, they can become protective if they feel the stranger is threatening their family.

The Italian Hound (AKA Segugio Italiano) is a scenthound with a clever mind and a love for hunting. He is gentle, easygoing and sociable even with strangers, making a great companion for people both young and old. He is fairly calm in the house, although will not hesitate to take chase if he catches an enticing scent! The breed’s affectionate and loyal nature has earned him many fans around the world, although he is rare in most places except his home country of Italy. The breed comes in two coat types: wire haired and smooth. Both are easy to take care of and low-shed, just requiring a quick brushing a couple times a week and occasional baths. Wire haired dogs have been noted to be slightly more aloof than their smooth coated brethren.

Italian Hounds do need daily exercise and enjoy long walks, although this should also be combined with plenty of free-running time. They need to stretch their legs and run on a very regular basis – these fast dogs are capable of racing for miles before getting tired. They also greatly benefit from obedience and other dog activities to keep their minds and bodies sharp. Many do well in multi-dog situations, either in the home or in public, although they are less trustworthy around smaller animals whom they might see as prey. This means they love to exercise during doggy play dates but are not the best choice to let off leash in a place filled with wild animals.

Because of their generally mild nature, Italian Hounds can live in apartments as long as they get taken out frequently. Those who don’t get enough exercise can become destructive, and this goes doubly so for apartment-dwellers. Don’t mistake their calmness for being low-energy, they are in fact a fairly high-energy breed that will be easygoing in the home only as long as they are given regular outlets!

When it comes to training, Italian Hounds tend to learn quickly and are very eager to please! Outside under heavy distraction, however, they become more difficult to train. Running animals or strong scents can quickly turn their “learning brain” off and their “hunting brain” on! The breed does best with a trainer who has a calm and confident demeanor and who helps build up the hound’s confidence as they train. Make sure to stay consistent!

Italian Hounds aren’t big on barking… instead they make unusual, high-pitched sounds when they want to talk. They’ll make these sounds to alert when people come to the door, making them good watchdogs (even if they aren’t guard dogs by any means). Many love to hear the sound of their own voices, which means the breed can be a bit vocal. Between the frequency with which they bark and the high-pitched tone that they do it… this may be a deal-breaker for some owners (and neighbors).

The Italian Hound is a very healthy dog for the most part, with chronic ear infections the only problem that can occur frequently – and this normally has more to do with a lack of ear hygiene on the part of the owner! Long-eared dogs are more prone to getting dirt and debris trapped in the ear, which can lead to an infection if not cleaned weekly. Otherwise this medium-sized hound tends to live 12-13 years with no health issues.