The Russian Harlequin Hound is seen almost exclusively in Russia and was originally created to track and hunt “red game” – i.e. fox and wolves. The breed was developed in the 1900’s by crossing the Russian Hound with the English Foxhound (and perhaps adding in some French scenthounds as well). The breed was originally known as the Anglo-Russian Hound at the time and the first standard was written in 1925. This hound has a high prey drive towards small animals, meaning cats and similar will be seen as prey, although he is social and friendly towards people and other dogs. Like many scenthounds, he is equally good with children as he enjoys humans of all shapes and sizes. Finally, he is very loyal and is actually more affectionate with people than many other breeds of pack-hunting scenthounds.
Harlequins have high energy levels and loud voices – two traits that make them a bad choice for apartment-dwellers. In fact, they require more exercise than a majority of dog breeds with most Harlequins needing a minimum of two hours a day! This is a high-endurance breed that has the stamina to run for hours, meaning that exercise must be intense enough to allow them a good workout every day. In addition to regular jogs, walks and/or other structured activities, a large fenced yard can provide them time to stretch their legs on their own as well.
Russian Harlequins are smart and need plenty of mental stimulation to be happy. They have the potential to learn quickly when taught by experienced owners, although have such a high independent streak that novice owners will likely have trouble. They require someone that knows how to be firm yet fair, and knowledge as to how to make the training process exciting and positive. They can be taught to compete in many different dog sports such as obedience, rally, agility, tracking or canicross although they will obviously excel the most in hunting trials! The biggest pitfall for the breed when it comes to training is their extreme prey drive, which can make them difficult to train around animal distractions. As such, off-leash training will likely be a long and difficult process when such distractions are involved.
The Harlequin Hound is a large breed with a strong, muscular build. His boxy body is slightly elongated, ending with a saber-shaped tail frequently carried high. The hanging ears are slightly rounded at the ends, and frame the rectangular houndy muzzle. The most frequent color is tricolor, although hounds may also be red/white. The coat is smooth, thick and rough to the touch, and requires very little grooming. Giving him the occasional bath when he gets dirty as well as providing a weekly brushing session will help to keep the coat in shiny, healthy condition. Make sure to also clean the ears regularly as hanging ears are more prone to buildup, and inspect the skin regularly for parasites or small cuts caused by backyard hunting activities.
Russian Harlequin Hounds are usually healthy as a breed although there are a few ailments which they are more prone to. Hip dysplasia, bloat, allergies and cancer are all known to appear in certain lines which means that a prospective owner should be prepared to seek out reputable breeders that health test their dogs and know their lines. Because this breed is not recognized by the AKC, those from the United States may have a more difficult time finding a breeder and will very likely have to invest in a Russian translator and/or travel to Russia in order to inquire about litters. For those who are up to the task – they will be rewarded with a top-notch hunting dog with an enthusiastic and affectionate nature!
