Cretan Hound
From Greece comes the Cretan Hound. The Cretan Hound comes from Greece, typically weighs Males, and has a short, smooth, hard, flat coat. Individual Cretan Hounds vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- Greece
- Weight
- Males
- Height
- Males
- Coat
- short, smooth, hard, flat
- Colour
- solid, particolour or tricolour
About the Cretan Hound
From Greece comes the Cretan Hound. The Cretan Hound is a versatile hunting breed known for its energetic and intelligent nature. With a short, smooth coat, this ancient breed excels in tracking and trailing game.
Overview
The Kritikos Lagonikos (Cretan Hound) (Greek:Kρητικός Λαγωνικός) is a breed of hunting dog from the Greek island of Crete . The Cretan Hound is recognized both in Greece and in Germany. The breed is also considered to be the oldest European dog breed dating to perhaps before 3200 BCE and Neolithic times.
History
The ancient origins of this rare primitive breed date to a time before written history. According to the Cretan Hound Dog Club, the breed is linked in its DNA and its characteristics to hunting dogs represented in ancient artworks discovered by archaeologists in prehistoric settlements of Crete. The hound''s ancestors are clearly depicted on Minoan seal stones, on ceramic and metallic utensils, ornamental objects, in sculptures and on frescos now housed in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum .
Characteristics
The Cretan Hound is a slender dog, somewhere between a scenthound and a sighthound in body, particularly light on its feet (that are oval rather than cat-like) and strong in loin, specially adapted for swift reflexes and high speed over dangerous, rocky terrain. The head is wedge-shaped, elongated and dry, with pricked and very mobile ears that fold backwards. The tail is a key breed characteristic, long and curved upwards, forming a loose or tight ring and covered with a brush of longer hair underneath. The dog is slightly longer than tall, with medium angulations, slender legs and muscle. The loin is slender yet powerful and there is tuck-up, with the points of the hipbones slightly prominent. The breed has a balance between characteristics of speed and stamina, the conformation being a compromise producing great agility. The breed can range in colour between pure white, cream, sandy, fawn, grey, black or brindle, bi-colored or tri-colored. Body weights are in the range 14 to 20 kg for bitches and 16 to 22 kg for dogs; heights at the withers are normally between 52 and 56 cm and 54 and 58 cm respectively, with a tolerance of ±2 cm.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Cretan Hound?
The Cretan Hound is a slender dog, with a body type that falls between a scenthound and a sighthound. It has a wedge-shaped, elongated head, pricked and mobile ears, and oval-shaped feet. The breed is strong in loin, adapted for swift reflexes and high speed over rocky terrain.
Is the Cretan Hound a good family dog?
As a hunting breed, the Cretan Hound may not be the best fit for families with small children. However, with proper socialization and training, it can make a loyal companion for active families who can provide the necessary exercise and attention.
What health problems do Cretan Hounds have?
Unfortunately, there is limited information available on the specific health issues affecting the Cretan Hound. However, as a rare breed, it may be prone to certain genetic health problems common in hound breeds, such as hip dysplasia and eye issues. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential.
How much does a Cretan Hound puppy cost?
The cost of a Cretan Hound puppy can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. As a rare breed, prices may be higher than those for more common breeds. On average, expect to pay between €500 to €2,000 or more for a Cretan Hound puppy.
Where do Cretan Hounds come from?
The Cretan Hound comes from Greece. The breed developed there before spreading to dog fanciers worldwide.
Related breeds
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Cretan Hound, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.