Balkan Hound Dog Breed Caring and Family, Social Life, Physical Traits, Diet Information

The Balkan Hound Dog is a medium to large-sized scent hound, with males being slightly larger than females. They are well-muscled, well-balanced, and eye-catching dogs with lustrous coats and athletic bodies. When viewed in profile, their skulls have a slightly rounded shape, and their muzzles are well-developed and taper to a black nose.

They have level withers and powerful loins, as well as level towlines. Croups are well-muscled and slope softly, with dogs exhibiting a small tuck of the abdomen. Their somewhat long tails are an extension of their croups and are thicker at the base while thinner toward the tip. Dogs’ tails are elegantly adorned, and they are carried slightly upward but never excessively high.

Their forequarters are robust, powerful, and muscular shoulder, and their hindquarters are sturdy, strong, and flat. When it comes to their coats, Balkan Hounds have extremely elastic, finely pigmented skin that is densely covered in hair, with the hair on the backside of a dog’s thighs and beneath its tail being significantly longer than the rest of its body. Some Balkan Hounds have a spot on their chest and have beautiful black collars on their backs that extend to the base of their heads.

The Balkan Hound Dogs are a subspecies of the group of hounds that are found over the region of the Balkans. This particular breed can be traced all the way back to the 11th century. People have the misconception that the breed is descended from hounds that once lived in Asia Minor and that these hounds were the ones that were used to develop the Balkan Hound. The name of this breed was formerly known as the Balkan Hound; however, in 1996, it was officially renamed the Serbian Hound.

This breed is a categorization of hunting dogs that is broader than the pointer, setter, or retriever categories, as well as the other sporting dog classifications. They were largely used as hunting dogs, which contributed to the development of their stellar reputation as hounds. They were able to track down their prey, which might have been anything from raccoons to foxes, thanks to their acute sense of smell.

The capacity of these animals to detect scents and put their deduction skills to work has contributed to their continued popularity among hunters. The Serbian Hound is a breed of dog known for its gentle nature and ability to develop strong ties with its human family and master. It is an active breed that enjoys going for walks and playing with its human family members.

The Serbian Hound is a very hard worker with a dogged personality; they can both track prey and capture it, and when they are hunting, they have a distinguishing high-pitched voice. Additionally, the breed is well-known for its exceptional stamina as well as its ability to hunt in harsh environments.

What is the History of Balkan Hound Dog?

The Balkan Hound is a member of a group of scented hounds that can be found all throughout the Balkan Region. It wasn’t until the 11th century that the first mention of the Balkan Hound was found, and most experts agree that Asia Minor was a significant contributor to the breed’s development. During that historical period, merchants and hunters employed the Hounds as a regular companions while hunting both small animals and larger animals.

The first standard was published for the breed in 1924; however, it wasn’t until 1940 that the FCI or Federation Cynologique Internationale approved the standard, despite the fact that it had been acknowledged elsewhere. It has been a permanent feature in the Balkans throughout history. The Balkan Hound was most widely distributed in Serbia, which is why, at a meeting of the FCI in 1996, the decision was made to formally change the name of the breed to the Serbian Hound. Today, the Serbian Hound can be found across its home country of Serbia, although it is still quite uncommon in most other countries.

What are the Breed Traits and Characteristics of Balkan Hound Dog?

The physical characteristics of a Balkan Hound include medium-length hanging ears and a large cranium that tapers down to the nose. Males of the breed stand at 46 to 56 centimeters tall and weigh 15 to 23 kilograms, while females appear to be smaller with a height generally ranging from 44 to 54 centimeters and weigh roughly the same as males do.

They have a large back that is perfectly straight and a tail that is slightly bent. The Balkan Hound Dog’s relationship with its owners is frequently characterized as one of gentleness and affection. They establish an everlasting loyalty to their owners and form a strong connection with them during their time with their owners. Children that are well-behaved and don’t cause any trouble are often not a problem since they love the attention they receive.

They are sociable, get along well with other dogs, and are able to adjust to the environment in which they are placed. However, there are a few conflicting thoughts on whether they can coexist peacefully in the same house as other pets. It is important to keep in mind that all hunting dogs, including the Balkan Hound, have an ingrained desire to chase and kill the game. Based on this, it is possible for them to live peacefully with cats, but other domesticated animals, such as rabbits, may be too much of a temptation for them.

Below are the features of the Balkan Hound Dog with ranking according to the level of their traits and characteristics. 

What is the Average Lifespan of a Balkan Hound Dog?

The Balkan Hound Dog is regarded as a fairly healthy dog breed, and there have been no reports of its population suffering from any inherited diseases. The fact that this dog’s lifespan is predicted to be anywhere between 12 and 15 years is already satisfactory. Despite the fact that this dog breed experiences very few health issues, it appears that they are more likely to develop ear infections, eye infections, and hip dysplasia. Due to their large breed, floppy ears that hang down from their faces, Balkan Hounds are particularly prone to developing ear infections.

These ears act as a reservoir for moisture and provide germs with the right conditions in which to thrive. To avoid having to deal with this issue, pet parents should make it a habit to give their dogs frequent ear cleaning and checkups at the veterinarian. Even though the average lifespan of a Balkan Hound Dog is up to 15 years, the actual lifespan of the dog is entirely determined by how well it is cared for. It is possible for the dog to live above the age of 15 if it is provided with adequate care, optimal food, routine checkups, and sufficient activity.

What is the Average Maintenance Cost for Balkan Hound Dog?

The Balkan Hound dog has a coat is similar to that of other hounds; short and dense. The dogs have a level of shedding that is around average. The rate of shedding, on the other hand, is most likely to be at its highest in the spring and the fall. At this point in time, they will require brushing on a more consistent basis in order to maintain the best possible condition for their coat.

The Balkan Hound is a dog that requires little in the way of upkeep and grooming because of its short, smooth coat. So maintaining its appearance is not expensive. Plus the fact that they are only ordinary shedders, brushing their coats once a week is all that is required to keep their fur in good condition and to facilitate the distribution of their natural oils. They do not need to be bathed more frequently than once every few months unless they engage in something that has an awful odor, and otherwise, they do a good job of maintaining their coats on their own.

If they are not utilized as hunting dogs, then it is important to monitor their nails and trim them as necessary to prevent cracking or breaking. In addition, owners should try to clean their teeth once per week if at all feasible so that they may keep their dental health in good condition. Moreover, pet owners should make it a habit to clean their dog’s ears on a regular basis because wide, floppy ears make some breeds of dogs more susceptible to developing ear infections than other breeds.

Aside from this, Balkan Hounds typically have a moderate level of drool. The owners of dogs should always have a clean, dry cloth handy so that they may clean up their pet’s drool as soon as it occurs. This will help dog owners maintain proper hygiene. As such, the Balkan Dog is a low-maintenance dog that does not place a significant burden on its owners, both monetarily and in terms of the amount of time required for grooming. Therefore, it is an excellent option for owners who have a lot of responsibilities.

What is the best diet for Balkan Hound Dog?

The proper food is absolutely necessary for the healthy development and functioning of Balkan Hound Dogs in order to achieve the best possible results. As a result of this, these dogs require a high-quality diet that is composed of an abundance of easily digestible carbs, a moderate amount of healthy fats, and lots of animal proteins. Since Balkan Dogs are energetic dogs, a diet that is designed expressly for working breeds is the best option for them, particularly if they are used as hunting dogs.

These diets, in addition to having a high protein content, also include a greater concentration of lipids, which helps boost energy. In addition to this, it is essential to offer these dogs diets that are tailored to the stage of their lives they are now in. Dry food of good grade is recommended by veterinarians for the purpose of making feeding simple, speedy, and effective without running the risk of overfeeding. The cost of providing food for these dogs will range between $1.50 and $2.00 per day, $45 and $60 per month, and $540 and $720 per year on average.

Listed below are the instructions on how to feed a Balkan Hound Dog.

1. On a daily basis, Balkan Hound Dogs should consume, on average, anything from 1.5 to 3 cups of kibble of a high grade. In order to prevent the dog from becoming overweight from receiving an excessive amount of food at once, this should be divided up into two separate meals. 
2. Since Balkan Hounds are prone to gaining weight, it is essential that they receive the correct amount of food to prevent obesity. Balkan Hounds can become overweight if they receive an excessive amount of food. On the other hand, inadequate nutrition can also result in nutrient deficiencies and a retarded development rate. 
3. Balkan Hounds are known for their high levels of energy and activity. As a result of this, they require a large quantity of food in order to sustain their activity level. These puppies can consume as much as 2 cups of food per day, but it should be divided up into three or four smaller meals. This is vital to ensure that these puppies grow to their full potential.

What are the common health problems of Balkan Hound Dog?

In general, Balkan Hound Dogs have excellent physical well-being. There is no evidence of an inherited sickness in the records. However, much like other dog breeds, Balkan Hounds can suffer from problems that are peculiar to their breed.

Below are the most common health problems of Balkan Hound Dog. 

• Ear Infections: Due to the fact that Balkan Hounds have floppy ears that drop down from their faces, this makes them especially susceptible to ear infections. The floppy ears provide a habitat that is ideal for the proliferation of germs because they trap moisture. As such, it is essential to monitor the ears of the Balkan Hound closely for any indications of infections. Indicative of discomfort, ear pawing, dark brown wax buildup within the ear canal, an unpleasant odor, and skin discoloration are all potential indicators of an ear infection. It is also vital to clean the dog’s ears on a regular basis in order to prevent this problem.
• Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a disorder that causes a great deal of discomfort for dogs and significantly diminishes their overall quality of life. It occurs when the ball and socket of one of the hip joint don’t fit properly or doesn’t develop regularly, causing the joint to grind and rub against one another rather than slide smoothly. As a direct consequence of this, the joint itself will eventually get worn out and unable to function properly. Hip dysplasia can cause a variety of symptoms, including problems standing up and lying down, discomfort, narrow hips, shaky or wobbling walks, and trouble walking or going up or downstairs.
• Obesity: Obesity is a common problem for Balkan Hound Dogs, just like it is for other working dog breeds in general, especially after they retire from their active lives. As such, it is essential to ensure that the Balkan Hound receives an adequate amount of food in order to prevent obesity. Gaining weight in an unhealthy manner can result in major health issues, including pancreatitis, heart problems, and the inability to move around freely.

What are the Nutritional Needs of a Balkan Hound Dog?

The daily caloric intake for a Balkan Hound Dog is between 670 and 750, due to the dog’s high level of activity and willingness to work. As a result of this, they call for a diet that is well-rounded and provides for all of their specific dietary requirements.

Below are the nutritional needs of a Balkan Hound Dog.

• Protein: Balkan Hounds require a high-quality animal protein diet in order to receive the amino acids that are essential for these canines to achieve their full potential in terms of health. Proteins are necessary for the development of healthy muscle tissue as well as the ligaments that connect muscle fibers.
• Carbohydrates: Even though they are not required in the Balkan Hound Dog’s diet, carbohydrates are important sources of energy that can help fuel the dog’s activities and support them in leading an active lifestyle.
• Vitamins: Vitamins are an essential source of antioxidants, which are crucial for the maintenance and improvement of the immunological health of Balkan Hounds. These nutrients are also important for enhancing the general well-being of dogs, which is a benefit that comes from having healthier pets.
• Fats: Since Balkan Hounds are working dogs, they need a substantial amount of nutritious fats in their diet in order to maintain the high level of activity that is required of them.
• Minerals: Minerals are essential for the health and well-being of Balkan Hounds and include, but are not limited to, phosphorus, manganese, iron, calcium, and magnesium. These minerals are essential for maintaining the health of a variety of organs and are very important. They have been shown to improve the health of a dog’s immune system, kidneys, liver, heart, and bones.
• Micronutrients: Glucosamine, Taurine, and chondroitin are among the essential elements that Balkan Hounds require in their diets. These can assist in the development of strong joints and improve the overall condition of the dogs’ hearts.

Where to Buy or Adopt Balkan Hound Dogs?

When purchasing or adopting a Balkan Hound dog, it is absolutely necessary to conduct business with a reputable breeder. This is significant since it guarantees that the customer will only obtain a healthy dog that will not have any possible health problems in the future. Since this particular dog breed is so uncommon, prospective buyers should be aware of breeders that offer an unending number of Balkan Hounds for sale at low prices or even grant large discounts for purchasing or adopting one of these canines. Before purchasing or adopting a Balkan Hound dog, prospective owners should be aware that these active dogs will need adequate activity in the form of frequent walks and other forms of exercise in order to maintain their health.

These reputable breeders of Balkan Hound dogs provide prospective owners the opportunity to purchase or adopt a canine companion.

• Dogell.com
• Worlddogfinder.com

What are the Rescue Clubs for Balkan Hound Dogs?

Dogs who need new homes might get assistance from rescue clubs, which are organizations. Aside from their native Serbia, Balkan Hound dogs are extremely uncommon in other parts of the world, which is why rescue clubs for these dogs are also uncommon.

How to Name a Balkan Hound Dog?

Many potential new owners have the misconception that naming a Balkan Hound dog is a quick and simple process. It is not the term itself that causes the dog to react, but rather the tone of voice and the specific manner in which it is pronounced that does so. When naming a Balkan Hound dog, there are a few elements to take into consideration, including the tone and syllables of the name. These are vital building blocks. Names for Balkan Hounds should preferably have two syllables each. They are not of a length that can be adequately addressed by orders consisting of a single syllable, such as “come” or “sit.” They are also not as long, which makes it more difficult to confuse them.

When calling the dog’s name in a sing-song style, several owners of Balkan Hounds have reported receiving improved responses from their dogs. The next step is to extend the pronunciation of the names with a single syllable so that they sound like they have two syllables each. In order to achieve the effect of having two separate tones, a name like Shena can be extended to sound like Shee-Heena. Furthermore,  whenever they become scared or nervous, Balkan Hound dogs favor quiet sounds, even if they respond strongly to high-pitched, lively, and happy sounds when being called by their names.

What are the Similar Dog Breeds for Balkan Hound Dog?

The following is a list of dog breeds that are comparable to the Balkan Hound Dog in terms of their size, nutritional requirements, maintenance requirements, energy levels, and the amount of exercise they require.

• Beagles: Beagles, much like Balkan Hounds, are extremely devoted to their families and enthusiastic about spending time with them. They are also humorous and very gentle, qualities that make them wonderful companions for both young children and elderly persons. Due to their active personalities, they make wonderful companions for families.
• Black and Tan Virginia Foxhound: The Black and Tan Virginia Foxhound is a type of dog that, like the Balkan Hound, is known for being an effective guard dog, excellent companion, and outstanding hunting dog. They are also compassionate and kind, and they require a great deal of physical activity in order to maintain their health. Foxhounds, much like Balkan Hound dogs, are predisposed to developing hip dysplasia and ear infections.
• Cotralian Dogs: The Cotralian Dog is a medium-sized dog that weighs between 30 and 50 pounds on average. In terms of size, these dogs are comparable to the Balkan Hound. Additionally, their height is comparable, ranging between 16 and 22 inches. They are also known for being great companions and friendly pets.
• Serbian Tricolour Hound: The Serbian Tricolor Hound is a breed of dog that was developed in Serbia. This breed is quite close to the Balkan Hound; having a weight somewhere between 44 and 50 lbs and a height ranging from 17.5 to 22 inches. These canines are also known to be incredibly devoted to their families and full of love for their human companions. Both their IQ and their levels of energy are comparable to one another.

I hope this article helped you better understand the Balkan Hound dog breed. Thanks for reading!

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