Hounds

Hound dog breeds were primarily used for hunting. These hunting dogs are well know for their incredible ability to find and track prey. They hunt using a keen sense of smell or incredibly sharp sight.

Each hound dog breed is either one of the Scent Hounds, one of the Sighthounds, or a hound dog that uses a combination of scent and sight like the Spitz hounds. This is a very diverse group of dogs, not only in size and appearance, but also in the types of pets they make. Some can be affectionate and playful while others can be more aloof and distant. It is important to learn about the type of hound dog you are attracted to, to make sure it will make a good fit in your life.

Most hounds share the common ancestral trait of being used for hunting. Some use acute scenting powers to follow a trail. Others demonstrate a phenomenal gift of stamina as they relentlessly run down quarry. Beyond this, however, generalizations about hounds are hard to come by, since the Group encompasses quite a diverse lot. There are Pharaoh Hounds, Norwegian Elkhounds, Afghans and Beagles, among others. Some hounds share the distinct ability to produce a unique sound known as baying. You’d best sample this sound before you decide to get a hound of your own to be sure it’s your cup of tea.

comments