The Lithuanian Hound is a rare scenthound breed currently recognized only by the Lithuanian Kennel Club. They are, in fact, the only native breed to Lithuania! Bred primarily to hunt large game such as elk, deer and wild boar they are thought to be the result of mixing St. Hubert Hounds/Bloodhounds with Lithuanian Ogars hundreds of years ago. Later on other breeds were added such as Curladish hounds, Russian hounds and/or their crosses and Polish-Lithuanian commonwealth hounds. At one point in time there were actually five different sizes of the breed, but nowadays there is only one size in the standard listed – although there is still a wild size range allowable.
While at one time very popular in their home country, unfortunately numbers dropped drastically after World War 2 and only 78 individuals were said to be recorded at that time. Thankfully there was enough interest in the breed for fanciers and breeders to keep them alive and in 1966 the first official standard was written. Despite best efforts however, numbers are still low enough that inbreeding is a concern among fanciers.
Lithuanians are always black and tan in color, with a smooth coat. They are large, muscular and robust with “solid and massive bone structure”. The hanging ears are triangular in shape with rounded ends. The neck is muscular and without folds or wrinkles, and holds the wedge-shaped head upright. The muzzle is slightly short. The eyes are dark, oval and set deep in the skull. Teeth are large and meet in a scissor bite. It is very important in the standard that all teeth be present. The long tail is thick at the base and slowly thins as it reaches the end, like a sword. Normally held low, when the hound’s mood rises so does the tail!
The Lithuanian Hound is a determined hunter and when he catches scent of his prey he’ll race after it with much enthusiasm – likely baying the entire time! After the hunt is over however, and he is safely back at home, he is easygoing and pleasant to live with as long as his needs are met. Like many scenthounds he needs plenty of vigorous exercise every day such as running alongside a bike, in combination with regular opportunities to run in a fenced area. A short walk is definitely not enough! If he isn’t exercised adequately he can become frustrating to live with – just like most breeds that were originally bred to work. Keep in mind this active breed lives an average of 12-14 years and will need regular exercise throughout the majority of his life.
Lithuanians are social hounds and they form close attachments with their owners, developing deep bonds. They get along well with children and other dogs. Many can also live peacefully with household cats! The Lithuanian was bred to work in a pack and therefore doesn’t like to live alone. He is happiest when living with at least one other dog (if not more)! Additionally, although they love people too much to function as guard dogs, these hounds can become great watchdogs and will alert their owners to the presence of unfamiliar visitors on the property. Otherwise they are fairly quiet at home and don’t tend to bark if there isn’t reason to do so.
Lithuanians Hounds like to please their owners and tend to learn quickly. Not only should their body be exercised but so should their mind – working breeds need mental stimulation, AKA training. It is recommended while training that the owner always be fair as they are sensitive, and trainers should utilize lots of short sessions throughout the day rather than one long “boring” lesson. Make training fun and you’ll both have a great time! It is also vital to teach a solid recall for any hound that will spend time off-leash.
The Lithuanian is also easy to care for as far as grooming, as he barely needs any unless he has gotten muddy. He does shed twice a year, however. In terms of living arrangements, this breed can be kept in an apartment or small house as long as his needs are met. General upkeep would be easy if it weren’t for the substantial exercise requirements, which means that a prospective owner must be ready to face that particular challenge head-on. Overall however, while this “secret gem” is rare, he can be a wonderful family dog for the right family!
