Country of OriginHungary
Nicknames and Other NamesErdélyi kopó, Hungarian Hound
Transylvanian Scent Hound
Scientific NameCanis lupus familiaris
Breed TypePurebred
GroupHound Group
Bred ForHunting big game like bear and wolf
SizeMedium-sized
Recognized ByFCI, UKC, AKC
Life Span10-14 years
Ideal Weight55 pounds minimum (male and female)
Ideal Height22-26 inches (male and female)
Fur TypeDense, coarse but shiny
Common ColorsBlack and Tan, Red and White,
Black Tan and White
MarkingsNone
AvailabilityModerately available
AchievementsHungarian ninth national breed
Suitable for ApartmentsNot suitable
Used in World WarNo
Most Similar ToVizsla

The Transylvanian Hound is a medium-sized ancient dog breed that has a gentle and loving nature. Also known as Hungarian Hound, Transylvanian Scent Hound is known for its hunting skills.

It is best suited in a house with yards or space enough for them to play and roam around. They do not do well in an apartment but if the owner is an active person who takes them out for exercises regularly, they can also adopt an apartment life.

Transylvanian Hound is a strong dog with an athletic body. The muzzle is a rectangular shape with the same length as its skull. The eyes are almond-shaped with an alert but relaxed expression. Their ears are of medium-sized that hangs close to the face. Their legs are straight and muscular.

Origin and History

The Transylvanian Hound was originated in Hungary over thousands of years ago. It is an ancient breed that is believed to be bred by crossing the hounds brought by Magyars with the native dogs of Hungary.

They were used as hunting dogs by royalty for hunting bears and wolves in the mountains of Transylvania. It was at its verge of extinction at the beginning of the 20th century but the breeders saved this breed.

Transylvanian Hound on a leash
A picture of strong Transylvanian Hound dog.
Image Source: akc

The Federation Cynologique Internationale recognized Transylvanian Hound in 1963. The American Kennel Club has kept this breed in the Foundation Stock Service since 2015 and yet to be recognized (as of April 2019).

Is Transylvanian Hound Child-Friendly

Transylvanian Hound gets well with children and is very fond of them. If raised together, they make excellent friends with children. They love to play as they are a very active dog, so their energy level may not math with small children. Therefore, while letting them play with kids, close supervision is necessary. Also, teach your kids to behave around dogs.

Transylvanian Hound is child friendly
Transylvanian Hound laying with a boy.
Image Source: Instagram-@asstassles

Temperament, Behavior, and Personality

Temperament: The temperament of the Transylvanian Hound is friendly, loyal, and determined. They are very loving of their family and are protective of them, which makes them great guard dogs. As it is bred for hunting purpose, it requires a good amount of exercise.

Behavior: As a scenthound, they tend to follow any interesting scent they come across. They are independent and it can make them quite stubborn. Therefore, while taking them out for a walk or a play, keep them on a leash so that they do not walk off following a scent.

Personality: The Transylvanian Hound has a courageous personality. They are not afraid of any danger that comes in their way and is ready to face any situation. Although it is a hunting dog, it makes a great family companion because of its friendly and loving nature towards the family.

Trainability

The Transylvanian Hound is always eager to please their owner, which makes training them easy. However, they are independent and can become stubborn sometimes. So, a firm and consistency training is necessary. As a scent hound, they tend to follow any interesting scent that catches their nose. So, while taking out for training, keep them on a leash so that they won’t wander off. Use positive methods of training to encourage and motivate them.

Facts

  • There are two kinds of Transylvanian Hound: long-legged and short-legged. The long-legged were used for hunting big game and short-legged were used for hunting small game.
  • The Transylvanian Hound has been assigned the Hound Group destination in the American Kennel Club.
  • In 1968, it is declared as the Hungarian ninth national breed.
  • In Hungary, it is called Erdelyi kopo that means Transylvania Hound in Hungarian.

Health Issues

General HealthHealthy
Common Health IssuesHip Dysplasia, Elbow Dysplasia,
Hypothyroidism, Skin Allergies
HypoallergenicNo
Vaccination RequiredCanine Coronavirus, Canine Parvovirus,
Leptospirosis, Canine Parainfluenza,
Rabies, Canine Distemper, Kennel Cough
SheddingModerate Shedder
DroolingAverage Drooler
GroomingAverage Grooming Required
Weight Gain PotentialAverage
Separation AnxietyModerate Chance
AllergiesSkin Allergy
Diets and SupplementsProtein: 27%
Fat: 10%
Digestive Enzymes
Glucosamine
Fish Oil
Lysine

The Transylvanian Hound is usually a healthy breed with an average life expectancy of 10-14 years. However, in those years, they might suffer from the following possible canine disease:

  • Hip Dysplasia: The hip dysplasia is caused when the joints of the hip are either underdeveloped or dislocated. It is a painful condition that prevents the dog from moving freely without any pain. The symptoms may be lack interest in playing or walking, unable to sit and stand. The treatments might involve surgery or medication. Therefore, consult a vet before starting a treatment.
  • Elbow Dysplasia: It is mainly due to genetics. This condition is developed due to poor development of the elbow joints. The dog will not show any proper sign as a symptoms and its disease is likely to pass on to generation to generation. A proper screening test is necessary. Therefore, consult a vet for the proper treatment of your dog.

Colors

The Transylvanian Hound comes in following colors according to the American Kennel Club:

  • Black & Tan
  • Black Tan and White
  • Red and White

Puppies

Height and Size: The average height of the Transylvanian Hound is between 22-26 inches and the average weight is between 66-77 lbs.

Cost: The average cost of the Transylvanian Hound puppy is between $600-$800 USD. However, the cost might vary according to the quality of the breeders.

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