Estonian Hound

The Estonian Hound was originally bred to hunt in the dense forests of Estonia. It is noted for its keen sense of smell and its tri-colored coat, which includes white markings that make it easy to spot when working in the field.

General details

Dogs of the breed are of medium size and strong constitution. The weight ranges between 15 and 20 kilograms, while the height varies between 45 and 52 centimeters in males, and between 42 and 49 centimeters in females. The life expectancy of this breed is 12 to 15 years. They belong to Group 6 of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which groups hounds and related breeds.

Breed history in brief

The Estonian Hound is a breed originating in Estonia that was developed in the early 20th century by crossing local tracking dogs with European hunting breeds, such as the English Foxhound and the German Hound. The breed was created out of the Estonian hunters' need for a dog with a great sense of smell, endurance and agility, ideal for hunting in the country's dense forests. The breed was recognized by the FCI in 1998. Currently, the Estonian Hound is highly valued by hunters and is dedicated to hunting small prey such as foxes and hares, although it is also loved as a family companion.

Breed characteristics

The Estonian Hound is a strongly built breed, with well developed limbs and muscles. The head is wedge-shaped, with slightly oval, dark brown eyes. The ears have rounded edges, are set high and hang close to the cheeks. The tail is sabre-shaped and reaches to the hock, but is never carried over the back. The coat is short, smooth and shiny, but with a rough texture to the touch. Its tail is densely furred and at the tip of the tail, the hair is slightly shorter. The typical coloration pattern is tricolor and consists of black spots with white and tan markings. The Estonian Hound is friendly and even-tempered, with a strong hunting instinct. Although independent, they are also loyal and devoted to their families. However, due to their distrust of strangers, it is important to properly socialize and train them from an early age. They are noted for their keen sense of smell, intelligence and agility.

Common health problems

Information on the most common diseases in the Estonian Hound breed is limited. Even so, it is likely to be predisposed to some of the most common disorders in dogs such as hip dysplasia, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism or volvulo-gastric dilatation.