Hound dogs are characterized by a great sense of smell and unlimited energy. The dogs were originally used as hunting dogs, but due to their special qualities, they are really intriguing companions. As a dog expert or a person planning to include another furry pet in his or her family, it is important to be aware of the various hound dog breeds. These working dogs are always healthy and happy when properly taken care of, such as with regular mobile dog grooming.
In this guide, you will be exposed to 15 of the most popular hound dog breeds. We shall discuss their history, their temperament, and what makes each of them special. At the bottom, you will be in a better position to know which of the best hound dog breeds would suit your lifestyle.
What Are Hound Dogs?
Hound dogs are a heterogeneous breed that was originally used as a hunting breed. They are mostly divided into two broad categories: sighthounds and scenthounds.
- Sighthounds: These hounds include the Whippets and the Greyhounds and are hunted visually. They have a notorious reputation for being incredibly fast and highly agile, and they are constructed to run into fast-moving prey.
- Scenthounds: Dogs such as Beagles and Basset Hounds are able to follow scents at a long distance because of their strong noses. They are tenacious and stubborn and are usually vocalizing with unique bays and howls.
Numerous hound dog breeds can be seen to have a blend of all these characteristics, which make them consummate and intelligent companions.
15 Popular Hound Dog Breeds
These are 15 of the best breeds of hound dogs that have distinct characteristics and personalities.
1. Beagle
Beagles are playful and inquisitive sniffers, with a trochaic bay. They are good pets in the family, as they were originally raised to hunt rabbits, but their friendliness renders them good pets. They are social dogs that mix well with children and other animals. They are one of the most popular breeds of hound dogs in the United States, and this is due to their small size and their merry nature.
2. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are easily identified, as they have long droopy ears, sorrowful eyes, and low-set bodies. The sense of smell of these scenthounds is so strong, second only to the Bloodhound. Although their expression is usually very doleful, Bassets are good-time, easy-going, patient, and good companions to the family.
3. Dachshund
The Dachshund, or the wiener dog, is a dog that has a long body but short legs. They were originally from Germany and were kept for breeding to hunt the badgers, which they dug out of their holes. Dachshunds are bold, playful, and even stubborn; they are available in three types of coat: smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired. One of their most popular small hound dog breeds.
4. Greyhound
Greyhounds are the dog race sprinters. They are sighthounds and therefore have been bred to hunt fast-moving animals such as deer and hares. It is evident that despite their athletic abilities, the Greyhounds are pretty docile and easygoing at home, and they usually take a nice nap on the couch. They are gentle and tender dogs that develop close attachments to their families.
5. Bloodhound
The Bloodhound is the supreme following dog. The name is given after their aristocratic lineage that is blooded or pure. They have long wrinkled faces and mighty noses and can trace a trail of scent for miles, even when days old. Bloodhounds are kindly giants, with the affection of being patient, but their love of following can at times give them a new adventure.
6. Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback, which has its origin in Southern Africa, is renowned for the ridge of hair that runs down its back in the opposite direction compared to the rest of the body. They were trained to kill lions, and it demanded a lot of courage and athleticism. Ridgebacks are tough people who are self-reliant yet at the same time loyal and affectionate towards their families, thus becoming great watchdogs.
7. Whippet
Whippets are smaller in size than Greyhounds and are equally fast and agile. They are amicable, calm, and docile dogs that perform well in a serene homestead. Although they enjoy running around, they are also happy to sit on the couch and cuddle, and therefore, they can fit in any household.
8. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is also one of the tallest breeds of dogs in the world. In the past, they hunted gigantic Irish elk and wolves. They are famous for being docile and quiet, though very huge. Irish Wolfhounds are long-suffering and affectionate towards children, so they are known as gentle giants.
9. Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds are also one of the most glamorous breeds of hound dogs, with their sleek coat being long and elegant in appearance. They are old sighthounds, which appeared in the mountainous part of Afghanistan. Afghans are autonomous and may be detached, yet they are also strongly devoted to their families. Their gorgeous coat has to be well-maintained and highly groomed.
10. Bluetick Coonhound
The Bluetick Coonhound is a very attractive scenthound that boasts a mottled blue coat. They are hunters of raccoons reared in the United States and have an active prey drive and a typical bawl mouth. Blueticks are clever and energetic dogs that require loads of exercise and stimulation of the mind to flourish. They are active dog lovers.
11. Redbone Coonhound
The redbone coonhound is known to have a beautiful red coat of solid color. These are all-around hunters, which are good with tracking down all game, including raccoons and cougars. They are characterized by the fact that they are level-headed and keen pleasers, and therefore they are more flexible to family life as compared to other breeds of coonhounds. Their smiling nature and impressive appearance endear them to people.
12. English Foxhound
The English Foxhound, a typical scenthound, is a breed that is bred to hunt in packs and has extraordinary stamina. They are outgoing dogs that like associating with other dogs and people. They are generally not maintained as pets in the house, although they are friendly and gentle, thereby making them good housemates to active families that have ample space.
13. Basenji
The Basenji is referred to as the African barkless dog. They do not bark but make a yodel-like sound that is special and is referred to as a “barroo”. These little hounds are smart, inquisitive, and active. Basenjis are also cat-like in their grooming behaviors, ensuring they are always clean. Their individualistic nature is one that needs regular training.
14. American Foxhound
The American Foxhound, being one of the oldest American breeds, is a scent hound with a pleasant and easy temperament. They were bred from English Foxhounds as being faster and with a better sense of smell. They are not demanding to maintain and are friendly with the kids and other pets, but they are good hunters, and thus they must be contained in a securely fenced space.
15. Plot Hound
The state dog of the state of North Carolina is called the Plott Hound because of its bravery and perseverance. The Plott family introduced the breed in America as a hunting breed that originally was used in Germany to hunt wild boar. Plotts are faithful, bright, and daring. They possess a great singing voice and a deep passion to please their owners and, therefore, make great working dogs and companions to experienced handlers.
Bringing Home One of the Best Hound Dog Breeds
A decision to adopt a hound dog is a fulfilling one. These are dogs with their histories and their special skills, providing friends of a kind. The hound dog breeds are very diverse, and you could have a sighthound, scenthound, or any breed that you want, based on the lifestyle you live. It should not be forgotten that these are active and intelligent dogs, so they need to be exercised frequently, their minds kept busy, and well-groomed to keep them in a good mood. Knowing what they require, you can establish a long-lasting relationship with one of these extraordinary breeds.
After every chase and outdoor adventure, a little pampering keeps your hound refreshed and ready for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are hound dogs good family pets?
Many hound dog breeds make excellent family pets. Breeds like the Beagle, Basset Hound, and Whippet are known for their gentle and friendly nature. However, it’s important to research specific breeds, as energy levels and training needs can vary significantly.
Do hound dogs bark a lot?
Scenthounds, in particular, are known for being vocal. They often “bay” or “howl” when they catch a scent. While not all hounds are noisy, this is a common trait in breeds like Beagles and Coonhounds. The Basenji is a notable exception, as it is known as the “barkless dog.”
How much exercise do hound dogs need?
Most hound dog breeds are active and require regular exercise to stay healthy and prevent boredom. Daily walks, runs, and opportunities to use their noses in a secure area are essential. Sighthounds enjoy sprinting, while scenthounds love long walks where they can explore scents.
Are hound dogs easy to train?
Hounds are intelligent, but their independent nature and strong instincts can sometimes make training a challenge. They were bred to work independently from their handler, which can translate to stubbornness. Consistent, patient, and positive reinforcement-based training is key to success with these smart dogs.
