The Istrian Shorthaired Hound is an ancient breed with a rich history dating back to the 19th century in Istria, a region in what is now Croatia and Slovenia.
They were bred for hunting small game like rabbits and hares.
These dogs are relatively small in size, typically weighing between 22-35 pounds and standing between 17-20 inches tall at the shoulder.
Their short coat requires minimal grooming, making them a great choice for busy owners.
About the Breed
The Istrian Short-Haired Hound is a breed with a unique history.
If you're interested in learning more about your dog's ancestry, Wisdom Panel's DNA tests can help you discover if your dog is an Istrian Short-Haired Hound.
This breed is a member of the Hound group.
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History
The Istrian Short-Haired Hound has a rich history that dates back to the 1300s in Croatia. This ancient breed has been prized for its hunting skills, particularly for fox and hare hunting in Istria and neighboring regions.
The breed's origins can be traced back to the Franciscan monastery in Dubrovnik, where four dogs resembling the Istrian Hound appear on the capitol column. The hounds also show up in paintings in cemetery chapels and churches from the late 1400s.
Historically, people have used the Istrian Short-Haired Hound for hunting rabbits and foxes in the rough, stony mountains of Istria. The breed's ability to navigate these challenging terrain made it a valuable asset for hunters.
The FCI published the first standard for the breed in 1955, and the United Kennel Club recognized it in 2006. Today, the Istrian Short-Haired Hound is a rare breed, primarily found in its native land.
Breed Group
If you're wondering about the breed group of your Istrian Short-Haired Hound, you can check out Wisdom Panel's DNA tests.
The Istrian Short-Haired Hound is a type of dog, and understanding its breed group can be helpful in determining its characteristics and traits.
Wisdom Panel's DNA tests can help you discover if your dog is indeed an Istrian Short-Haired Hound, and provide valuable insights into its ancestry.
Physical Characteristics
The Istrian Short-Haired Hound is a medium-sized dog with a strong body and noble appearance.
They have a distinctive physical trait with a narrow skull, long muzzle, and dark, oval-shaped eyes.
Their ears are drop ears that lie close to the head and don't reach the canine teeth when pulled forward.
This breed has a short, dense, fine, and glossy coat that comes in solid white or white with lemon patches or ticking.
Adult males weigh about 40 pounds and stand at 19.5 inches tall at the withers, while females are slightly smaller at 18.5 inches tall and weigh less.
General Appearance
The Istrian Short-Haired Hound has a noble appearance. It's a breed that exudes elegance and refinement.
This dog is a medium-sized breed with a strong body. You'll notice its muscular build and athletic physique.
One of the breed's defining features is its short coat, which is dense, fine, and glossy. It's a coat that requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best.
The Istrian Short-Haired Hound comes in two main color variations: solid white and white with lemon patches or ticking. The lemon markings add a touch of warmth and character to the breed's overall appearance.
Its long head and supple body give the breed a sleek and agile look. You'll notice its long muzzle and dark, oval-shaped eyes, which are perfectly proportioned to its head.
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Height and Weight
When considering the physical characteristics of an adult, height and weight are essential factors to consider. Ideal height at the withers for males is 19.5 inches.
A male typically weighs around 40 pounds, with females weighing slightly less.
Traits
The Istrian Short-Haired Hound is a calm and laid-back breed at home.
They are gentle and docile, making them a great companion for families.
Their calm nature can sometimes make them wary of strangers, so socialization is key.
Istrian Hounds are very attached to their humans and get extremely excited when they're around.
They have a powerful, persistent bark that's perfect for alerting you to potential threats.
Their enthusiasm when hunting is unmatched, and they're lively and energetic in this context.
Their loyalty and obedience make them a joy to train and interact with.
Care and Training
Istrian Shorthaired Hounds are relatively easy to train, especially when using reward-based methods that incorporate plenty of praise.
This approach encourages good behavior and strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
Early socialization is also crucial for this breed, introducing your pup to different people and environments when they're young will help them develop into a confident, well-mannered adult dog.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the health issue with the Istrian Shorthaired Hound?
Istrian Shorthaired Hounds are prone to hip dysplasia, a common health issue affecting the hip joint. Regular check-ups and a healthy weight can help prevent or manage this condition
What is the temperament of the Istrian shorthaired hound?
The Istrian shorthaired hound is a calm and gentle breed that thrives on human companionship, but can be wary of strangers. With proper training, they are loyal and obedient companions with a strong hunting instinct.
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