Hound Group
Hound breeds were originally developed for hunting and often share strong instincts tied to that role. Some hounds rely on exceptional scent-tracking abilities, while others are built for endurance, capable of pursuing their target over long distances. As a group, hounds are incredibly diverse, including breeds such as the Afghan Hound, Beagle, Pharaoh Hound
Basset Fauve de Bretagne
Intelligent, brave, and persistent, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a dedicated hunting hound capable of adapting to a variety of game and terrains. Though serious and focused in the field, it is equally valued as a delightful companion—cheerful in temperament, quick-minded, and eager to please its family. Also known as the Fawn-Colored Brittany Basset, this small yet sturdy breed features a rough, weather-resistant coat and a compact, muscular build. Despite its size, the Fauve is energetic and surprisingly swift. It generally gets along well with children and other household pets, but consistent training and early socialization are essential to prevent mischievous behavior. While not typically prone to excessive barking, the Fauve will certainly raise its distinctive hound voice and give chase if a rabbit dashes across the yard. Equally content exploring fields or relaxing beside its family on the sofa, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne blends working drive with affectionate companionship.
Scottish Deerhound
Known as the “Royal Dog of Scotland,” the crisply coated Scottish Deerhound is a majestic coursing hound derived from the ancient Greyhound type. Bred to pursue the massive wild red deer, it ranks among the tallest and most imposing of all dog breeds. To fully appreciate the Deerhound’s grandeur, a bit of distance is required. In outline, it presents the noble silhouette of a classic sighthound, yet with far greater size and substance than the Greyhound. A well-grown male may stand around 32 inches at the shoulder and weigh up to 110 pounds. The harsh, wiry coat appears in several colors, though enthusiasts favor the deep blue-gray shade. A long, tapered head and an elegant neck further enhance the breed’s naturally dignified and stately presence.
Harrier
The Harrier is a fast, prey-driven pack hound of medium size, originally developed in medieval England for hunting hare. Friendly and outgoing by nature, this breed is noticeably larger than the Beagle, yet smaller than its other close relative, the English Foxhound. Often described as resembling a Beagle with greater strength and athleticism, the Harrier is a more powerful hound than its smaller cousin while remaining more compact than the English Foxhound, which contributed to its development. Standing between 19 and 21 inches at the shoulder, Harriers display the classic appearance of a traditional working pack hound. They feature a short, neat coat, soft low-set ears, a charmingly sweet expression, and a muscular, resilient build capable of sustaining long days in the field. A well-constructed Harrier moves with a smooth, efficient stride that reflects both endurance and balance.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a versatile and powerful hound, often described as a true “Renaissance dog,” distinguished by the unique ridge of hair that grows in the opposite direction along its back. Originally renowned in its native Africa for its exceptional ability to track and hold lions at bay—never to kill them—the breed today is best known as a devoted family companion. Owners, however, must be prepared to manage the Ridgeback’s independent nature and strong prey drive. Beneath the breed’s iconic ridge lies a formidable athlete. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are fast, muscular, and powerful dogs, typically weighing between 70 and 85 pounds, and sometimes more. They appear in a single coat color, wheaten, which ranges from light golden tones to deep reddish shades reminiscent of ripened grain. The breed also features two nose colors: black and the less common brown. Confident and strong-willed, the Ridgeback can be independent and occasionally assertive, requiring consistent, fair, and firm guidance from an early age. When properly raised, they are loyal companions—protective of their families and deeply affectionate with those they trust. Even so, the Ridgeback’s strength, independence, and hound instincts may prove challenging for inexperienced dog owners.
Saluki
Among the oldest known dog breeds, the Saluki is a slender yet resilient hound that served as a royal hunting companion for thousands of years. Renowned for its speed and agility, the Saluki is a natural sprinter that delights in the thrill of the chase. Despite its athletic prowess, it is also a gentle, dignified, and independent dog, forming loyal bonds with those it trusts. The elegance of the Saluki has inspired admiration for centuries. Tall, lean, and long-legged, the breed is nevertheless strong, well balanced, and built like a finely tuned athlete or graceful dancer. Males typically stand between 23 and 28 inches at the shoulder, while females are often noticeably smaller. Salukis appear in a wide variety of colors and patterns, and their large, oval-shaped eyes convey warmth and intelligence. Highly adaptable, they are capable of living and working in diverse climates. While undeniably magnificent, owning a Saluki requires an understanding of the breed’s unique needs and challenges.
English Foxhound
The English Foxhound is a powerful, galloping hound renowned for exceptional stamina and endurance. Its long legs are straight and robust, supporting a perfectly level back and a notably deep chest. In a hound standing about 24 inches at the shoulder, the chest may measure up to 31 inches in girth, providing ample lung capacity for the demands of a long and exhausting day of hunting. Bred to work in packs and guided primarily by scent, the English Foxhound is gentle and sociable by nature, yet it is rarely kept as a household pet. Its strong, instinctive drive to pursue quarry can dominate its behavior, often outweighing other influences such as training. Ownership of this dignified breed requires an individual who embraces an active lifestyle and appreciates the social and working nature of such hounds. The English Foxhound represents the ideal long sought by dedicated dog breeders, combining beauty, balance, and practical purpose. Its straight, sturdy limbs, level topline, and deep chest create a harmonious structure built for function as much as form. A poet once observed that, aside from ancient Greek statues, few figures unite grace and strength as completely as a well-made Foxhound.
Redbone Coonhound
The sleek and athletic Redbone Coonhound is a true American original, known for its calm, gentle, and easygoing nature at home, contrasted by remarkable intensity and determination in the field. The rhythm of a Redbone’s life balances vigorous activity—such as hunting and swimming—with extended periods of rest. Redbones are medium-to-large hound dogs with powerful muscles that ripple beneath a smooth, rich red coat of striking beauty. Their overall appearance suggests a dog carefully sculpted from polished mahogany. The breed’s classic hound head is framed by long ears that reach toward the nose, while soft brown eyes lend a soulful, almost pleading expression. Bred to perform across demanding and rugged terrain, the Redbone Coonhound is fast, sure-footed, and moves with a proud, confident, and purposeful stride.
Sloughi
The Sloughi, often called the “Arabian Greyhound,” is an ancient and elegant sighthound renowned for its speed, endurance, and refined form. Historically used to hunt a wide range of game across the harsh deserts of North Africa, the breed combines athletic ability with a dignified and reserved nature. While naturally aloof with strangers, the Sloughi is gentle, loyal, and deeply affectionate with those it knows and trusts. Built along classic sighthound lines, the Sloughi is a lean, functional dog with no unnecessary exaggeration. Standing between 24 and 29 inches at the shoulder, it was bred to pursue prey such as hare, fox, jackal, gazelle, and wild boar over demanding terrain. Coat colors range from pale sand to deep mahogany red-fawn, with or without brindling or black markings, and without prominent white. The breed’s large, dark eyes often carry a soft, contemplative expression frequently described as melancholic.
Norwegian Elkhound
The Norwegian Elkhound is a sturdy Nordic spitz distinguished by its rich silver-gray coat and a demeanor that blends dignity with friendliness. Renowned for its durability, the Elkhound is among Europe’s oldest dog breeds, having accompanied Vikings and appeared prominently in Norse art and legend. Compact and powerfully built, Norwegian Elkhounds stand at around 20 inches at the shoulder. Their dense silver-gray coat, tightly curled tail carried over the back, deep chest, strong legs, and muscular thighs reflect a dog designed for demanding work. Dark brown eyes and erect, mobile ears contribute to an expression of alertness and reliability. Overall, the Elkhound presents the image of a vigilant, steadfast northern dog. Highly regarded as loyal companions and intelligent watchdogs, Elkhounds thrive when given outlets for their natural athleticism, such as agility and herding activities. Initially reserved with strangers, they become deeply trustworthy and devoted once familiar. Confident and strong-willed, these dogs also possess a sensitive nature, balanced by a touch of independent hound-like character.
Ready to start your journey?
Join thousands of pet owners and get complete, integrated pet health care.