Country of OriginSlovakia
Nicknames and Other NamesSlovensky Hound
Black Forest Hound
Slovensky kopov
Scientific NameCanis lupus familiaris
Breed TypePurebred
GroupHund Group
Bred ForHunting Boar
SizeMedium-sized
Recognized ByAKC, FCI, UKC
Life Span12-13 years
Ideal Weight33-44 pounds (male and female)
Ideal Height16-20 inches (male aand female)
Fur TypeShort, glossy
Common ColorsBlack and Tan
MarkingsNone
AvailabilityModerately available
AchievementsNational Breed of Slovakia
Suitable for ApartmentsModerately suitable
Used in World WarNo
Most Similar ToTrasylvanian Hound

Slovensky Kopov is a medium-sized hunting dog that is known for its scenting ability. It is a very popular breed in its native land Czechoslovakia but outside, it is not much famous.

It is a very active dog that is best suited in a house with a yard where it can perform its regular exercise. However, they do not do well in an apartment where they cannot move freely. If kept in an apartment, they should be taken out for a walk or play regularly.

Slovensky Kopov is a muscular dog with a long length but quite a short body. The ears are big and hanged down on the side of the lips. Its eyes are deep-set, almond in shape and dark brown in color. Their coat is short and has a shiny finish. It is moderately smooth and is easy to groom.

Origin and History

The origin of the Slovensky Kopov is in Czechoslovakia and was first recognized in the 1870s. They were used as a hunting dog that used its scent for hunting deer and wild boar. It is believed to be developed with the mix of different breeds like Austrian Black and Tan Hound, Chart Polski, and Hungarian Greyhound. The mix of this breeds, Slovensky Kopov got a unique combination of the stamina and scenting ability.

Slovensky Kopov in is ancient looks
Slovensky Kopov in snow.
Image Source: AKC

In 1988, the Slovak Hound Breeders Club was established in Bratislava, Slovakia. As of April 2019, the American Kennel has not recognized this breed. It is kept under the Foundation Stock Service, which is the first step before full recognition of the breed.

Is Slovensky Kopov Child-Friendly?

Slovensky Kopov does very well in a house with children. They are friendly, affectionate, and tolerant of children. They are active and makes a great playmate for children. Slovensky Kopov is also protective and will guard and protect kids from any kind of approaching harm.

No matter how friendly a dog is, it should not be left alone with children. They should always be supervised by an adult family member.

Slovensky Kopov is child friendly
Slovensky Kopov is child-friendly.
Image Source: bruno.emons

Temperament, Behavior, and Personality

Temperament: The temperament of the Slovensky Kopov is courageous, who can face any dangerous situation without fear. They are an active hunting dog who is alert about the activities around the house. They warn their owner of the odd activities going around by barking and make a good watchdog.

Behavior: Slovensky Kopov is a very loud barker. They tend to bark at strangers and other canine animals when they see them approaching towards them.

As an active hunting dog, they need a lot of physical and mental exercise. If they do not get enough exercise, they become anxious and might even show their destructive behavior.

Personality: The Slovensky Kopov has an alert and determined personality. They are very loyal to their families and are also very protective of them. Therefore, it also makes a good guard dog. They love their family company and are happy to help them in their regular activity.

Trainability

Training Slovensky Kopov is not a hard task to do. They are an obedient dog who is intelligent and smart and learn commands quickly. Sometimes, they can be stubborn due to their independent nature, but they can be trained with patient and consistency.

You should develop a firm leadership upon them and you should not force hand on it. Forcing hand and harsh behavior can scare them and can even make them aggressive. Therefore, train them gently and after every task, they finish, reward them with treats and vocal praises.

Facts

  • Slovensky Kopov is a national breed of Slovakia.
  • It is also known as “Black Forest Hound”, which is a complete misnomer. as it was not developed anywhere near the Black Forest.
  • It is forbidden to mix Slovensky Kopov to any other breed, as to maintain the pureness of the breed.
  • The name “Kopov” is derived from the word ‘kopo’ of Hungary, which means scent hound.

Health Issues

General HealthHealthy
Common Health IssuesObesity, Hip Dysplasia, Bloat, Elbow Dysplasia,
Hypothyroidism, Eye Problems
HypoallergenicNo
Vaccination RequiredCanine Coronavirus, Canine Parvovirus,
Leptospirosis, Canine Parainfluenza,
Rabies, Canine Distemper, Kennel Cough
SheddingModerate Shedder
DroolingAverage Drooler
GroomingEasy and Minimal Grooming Required
Weight Gain PotentialAverage
Separation AnxietyHigh Chance
AllergiesNone
Diets and SupplementsProtein: 27%
Fat: 10%
Glucosamine
Probiotics
Omega-3 and 6 Fatty Acids

Slovensky Kopov is generally a healthy breed with a life expectancy of 12-14 years on average. However, they might suffer from a few canine diseases in their lifetime.

  • Elbow Dysplasia: Elbow dysplasia is a developmental abnormality of the elbow joints. This condition is mainly seen at a young age. There will be pain and discomfort in your dogs and their gait will be unusual. If lameness is seen, it is suggested to take your dog for surgery.
  • Hip Dysplasia: The undeveloped or dislocation of the hip joints or bones is called hip dysplasia. There will be pain and discomfort when your dog tries to move from one place to another. Therefore, it is recommended to take your dog to vet, if you see some abnormal gait.

Colors

The Slovensky Kopov comes in one standard color according to American Kennel Club and that is Black and Tan.

Puppies

Cost: The average cost of the Slovensky Kopov is between $600-$1200 USD. However, adoption cost a lot less than buying that includes only the expenses of taking care of the puppy.

Height and Size: The average height of the Slovensky Kopov is between 16-20 inches and the average weight is between 33-44 pounds.

Similar Dog Breeds to Slovensky Kopov

Transylvanian Hound which is similar to Slovensky Kopov

Transylvanian Hound

Visit Doglime for more information about dog breeds history, behavior, training, and puppies.

Tags