Lithuanian Hound
The Lithuanian Hound is a breed originating from Lithuania, weighing 24-30 kg. The Lithuanian Hound comes from Lithuania, and typically weighs 24–30 kg. Individual Lithuanian Hounds vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- Lithuania
- Weight
- 24–30 kg (53–66 lb)
- Height
- Males
- Colour
- black with tan
About the Lithuanian Hound
The Lithuanian Hound is a breed originating from Lithuania, weighing 24-30 kg. It stands at a height of 55-65 cm for males.
Overview
The Lithuanian Hound ( Lithuanian : lietuvių skalikas ) is a rare, medium-size hunting dog from Lithuania . It is the only dog breed originating from Lithuania and dates back to the medieval Grand Duchy of Lithuania . However, the breed is not recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).
History
The Lithuanian Hound has been traditionally used to hunt hare , fox , and boar . It is believed that it comes from the mixing of bloodhounds with several other hound breeds. Russian zoologist Leonid Pavlovich Sabaneyev claimed that the hounds were most closely related to St. Hubert Hounds and were brought from France in the 15th century. In the 19th century, authors described up to five different local breeds or types of hounds used for hunting in Lithuania. They differed in size and were used to hunt different animals (for example, smaller type was used to hunt hares, while large dogs known as ogars were used to hunt deer), but they all had black with tan fur. The breed was first mentioned in written sources in 1541 when a forester from Hrodna sued over a stolen hound. The breed was also mentioned in the Statutes of Lithuania (1588). Once a popular breed in Lithuania, the population decreased to 78 individuals after World War II. Thanks to several enthusiasts, the hound was revived and standardized. The provisional standard was established in 1966 and revised in 1983. There were not enough individual dogs left to revive the sub-breeds or types of the hound, therefore breeders settled on a more universal type. The first Lithuanian Hound exhibition was organized in 1981; it had 62 dogs participating. The number of registered and documented dogs reached around 350 in 1987. After the dissolution of the Soviet Union , the breed decreased to around 150 individuals by 1998. The decrease in popularity is explained by changing hunting habits: the Lithuanian Hound is best suited for hunting large animals in large open areas, but modern hunting plots are decreasing in size. Due to the small population, inbreeding is a major concern of the breeders. A study in 2008 calculated the coefficient of inbreeding at 2.09% and relatedness at 6.74%.
Commemoration
In June 2011, during a city festival, a sculpture of the Lithuanian Hound was unveiled in Telšiai . Zigmas Goštautas, who was instrumental in reviving the breed in 1950s, was a resident of Telšiai. In May 2015, a sculpture of three hounds by Rimantas Keturka and Feliksas Volčakas was unveiled near the Vilnius Castle Complex . In 2017, Bank of Lithuania issued a commemorative coin (in 10 and 1.5 euros denominations) that depict two Lithuanian Hounds and a Žemaitukas (a Lithuanian horse breed).
Characteristics
It is sturdy and heavy-boned, but at the same time sleek and muscular. It has a short black coat with some brown on snout, chest, ears, forehead. The official standard allows for a small white spot on the chest, but not on toes. Fur is thick and short, up to 3–5 centimetres (1.2–2.0 in) in length. The dog''s long tail is sword-shaped and naturally low. The head is large, chest is broad, deep and low. Ears are long with rounded tips, and hang close to the cheeks. Neck is quite long and strong with no dewlap . The feet are straight, strong and round, with compact toes, helping it be a fast, very agile, and determined pursuer. The dogs are energetic and need rigorous exercise. They are responsive to training.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Lithuanian Hound?
The Lithuanian Hound is a sturdy, heavy-boned dog with a sleek and muscular build. It has a short black coat with brown markings on the snout, chest, ears, and forehead. The breed allows for a small white spot on the chest but not on the toes. Its fur is thick and short, up to 3-5 centimeters in length, and its tail is long and sword-shaped.
Is the Lithuanian Hound a good family dog?
As a hunting breed, the Lithuanian Hound requires regular exercise and mental stimulation. They can be suitable for active families who can provide the necessary attention and exercise. However, their strong prey drive and independent nature may not make them the best fit for very young children or households with small pets.
What health problems do Lithuanian Hounds have?
Due to the limited availability of breed-specific health data, general guidance for hound breeds applies. Hounds are prone to hip dysplasia, eye problems, and ear infections. Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing can help identify potential health issues early on.
How much does a Lithuanian Hound puppy cost?
The cost of a Lithuanian Hound puppy is not well-documented, as the breed is rare and not recognized by major kennel clubs. However, prices for rare or exotic breeds can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on factors like bloodlines, breeder reputation, and location.
Where do Lithuanian Hounds come from?
The Lithuanian Hound comes from Lithuania. 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 Lithuanian Hound, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.