
The Sinhala Hound Dog Breed is a rare and unique canine companion. It originated in Sri Lanka, where it was bred to hunt small game.
One of the most distinctive features of the Sinhala Hound is its short, smooth coat. This makes it a low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming.
The Sinhala Hound is a small to medium-sized dog, typically weighing between 20-30 pounds. Its compact size makes it an ideal companion for city living.
With proper training, the Sinhala Hound can be a loyal and loving family pet. Its friendly nature makes it a great addition to any household.
Physical Characteristics
The Sinhala Hound can be found in a variety of colors, but brown or dark brown brindle are most common.
Their coat is short and dense, which provides them with protection from the harsh tropical climate of their native land.
Size and Weight
The Sinhala Hound is a small to medium-sized dog breed. They typically weigh between 20-26 pounds, with males weighing 22-26 pounds and females weighing 20-25 pounds.

Their height is slightly shorter, with males reaching 14-16 inches and females reaching 13-15 inches.
Here's a breakdown of the Sinhala Hound's size and weight:
Their average height is 15 inches for males and 14 inches for females, while their average weight is 24 pounds for males and 22.5 pounds for females.
Fur Characteristics
The Sinhala Hound's fur is quite impressive, with a short and dense coat that gives them a sleek and streamlined appearance. This is due to the fur's short length, which makes it low-maintenance and easy to care for.
Their fur is often a rich, warm brown colour, ranging from deep chocolate to lighter tan. Some individuals may have black or white markings, adding to their unique appearance.
The Sinhala Hound's fur is also very glossy and smooth, reflecting light and adding to their overall sleekness. This makes them a popular choice for those looking for a unique and beautiful canine companion.
In addition to brown, the Sinhala Hound can come in a range of other colours, including reddish or golden hues, and grey or silver appearances. Some individuals may even have a brindle pattern, with stripes of different shades running throughout their coat.
Resilient in Harsh Environments

The Sinhala Hound's ability to thrive in harsh environments is truly impressive. They have a strong immune system that allows them to withstand extreme weather conditions.
Their natural ability to navigate rugged terrains makes them well-suited for various types of landscapes.
Breed Overview
The Sinhala Hound is a rare and ancient breed, originating from Sri Lanka.
They are a medium-sized dog with a muscular build, weighing between 25-40 pounds.
Sinhala Hounds are known for their short, smooth coats that come in a variety of colors, including black, brown, and tan.
Their ears are triangular and erect, giving them a distinctive appearance.
Sinhala Hounds are highly intelligent and energetic dogs, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
They are also known for their strong prey drive and love of chasing small game, making them well-suited to life in rural areas.
Exceptional Hunting Abilities
The Sinhala Hound is bred to be swift and agile. Its exceptional hunting abilities make it a valuable companion for hunters.
With a natural instinct for tracking and pursuing prey, the Sinhala Hound is highly skilled at flushing out game. This ability makes it a reliable hunting partner.
Its agility allows the Sinhala Hound to chase down small animals with ease.
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Temperament and Trainability

The Sinhala Hound's temperament is a perfect blend of friendly and independent. They're extremely active and require plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
Sinhala Hounds are known to be affectionate and loyal, making them great family pets. They're also very social and enjoy spending time with their owners and other dogs.
Their high energy levels can sometimes make them difficult to train, but with patience and persistence, they can be trained to follow commands and perform various tasks. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods, such as treats and praise.
Here's a quick rundown of the Sinhala Hound's trainability:
Good With
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are good with children, as they are gentle and patient, making them a great addition to families with kids.
Their friendly nature also makes them good with strangers, as they tend to approach new people with a wagging tail.
Bulldogs are good with other pets, especially if socialized from an early age, as they are generally laid-back and easy-going.

Their calm demeanor also makes them good with elderly people, who may appreciate their gentle and affectionate nature.
Poodles are good with active families, as they require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Their intelligence and trainability also make them good with first-time dog owners, who may appreciate their ease of training and adaptability.
Health and Care
The Sinhala Hound is a relatively healthy breed, but like any dog, it's essential to monitor their health regularly. They have a moderate shedding level, so regular brushing can help reduce the amount of hair that sheds.
To keep your Sinhala Hound happy and healthy, it's recommended to take them to the vet at least once a year for a complete physical check-up. If your dog shows any symptoms, don't hesitate to call your veterinarian.
The average lifespan of a Sinhala Hound is 16 years, ranging from 14 to 18 years. To make the most of this time, feed them high-quality dry food, divided into two meals a day (1 to 1.5 cups).
Health Issues and Grooming Checklist:
The Sinhala Hound's coat requires minimal grooming, making them a great choice for beginners. However, it's still essential to clean their ears and eyes regularly to prevent infections.
Health and Lifespan

The Sinhala Hound is a healthy breed, but like any other breed, it's not immune to health issues. Regular check-ups with your vet can help catch any problems early on.
You should take your Sinhala Hound to the vet at least once a year for a complete physical check-up. If your dog shows any symptoms, don't hesitate to call your veterinarian.
The average lifespan of a Sinhala Hound is 16 years, with some living up to 18 years. This is a significant amount of time to spend with your furry friend, so make the most of it.
Here's a breakdown of the average lifespan of a Sinhala Hound:
Sinhala Hounds prefer average to warm weather conditions, so make sure to provide them with a comfortable living space that meets their needs.
Allergies and Grooming
The Sinhala Hound is a great choice for those who don't have a lot of time or money to devote to grooming. This breed requires minimal grooming, making it perfect for beginners or those who want a low-maintenance dog.
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Their coat is soft, thick, and double-layered, but it doesn't need to be cut by a professional groomer. Seasonal flea treatment is a must, but that's about it. Regular brushing can help reduce shedding, which is moderate for this breed.
If you're concerned about allergies, be aware that the Sinhala Hound is not hypoallergenic. This means they may not be the best choice for those with allergies. The good news is that they shed moderately, and regular brushing can help reduce the amount of hair that sheds.
Here's a quick rundown of the Sinhala Hound's grooming needs:
Overall, the Sinhala Hound is a great choice for those who want a low-maintenance dog with a beautiful coat. Just remember to give them regular brushing and occasional flea treatment to keep them happy and healthy.
Diet and Weight
To keep your Sinhala Hound healthy and happy, it's essential to provide the right amount of food. Feed your dog 1 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

A Sinhala Hound's weight gain potential is relatively low to average, making them less prone to obesity. However, it's still crucial to monitor their weight and adjust their diet accordingly.
To avoid weight gain, try to find a happy medium between exercise and feeding. Take your dog on regular walks and engage in playtime activities to keep them active.
Here's a rough guide to your Sinhala Hound's weight range: Male: 22-26 pounds (10-12 kg), Female: 20-25 pounds (9-11 kg).
Behavior and Lifestyle
The Sinhala Hound is a great breed for active families or individuals who want a dog that can keep up with their lifestyle. They have an average energy level, which means they need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
If you live a semi-active life, a Sinhala Hound can be a great choice for you. They need short walks every weekday and a long one on weekends, but they're not high-maintenance when it comes to exercise.

Sinhala Hounds are also very social animals and enjoy spending time with their owners and other dogs. They're a great choice for families with children or other pets.
Despite their energetic nature, Sinhala Hounds don't spend too much time sleeping. They're a great choice for active owners who want a dog that can keep up with their busy lifestyle.
Here's a quick rundown of the Sinhala Hound's exercise needs:
Their short, smooth coat requires minimal maintenance and sheds moderately throughout the year. Regular brushing is recommended to keep their coat healthy and shiny.
Recognition and Reproducibility
The Sinhala Hound is a unique breed with distinct reproductive characteristics. They are pregnant for 60-64 days, which is relatively short compared to other breeds.
Their reproductive cycle is divided into four stages: Proestrus, Estrus, Diestrus, and Anestrus. The Proestrus stage lasts about 9 days, during which the female's vulva swells and she experiences bloody discharge.

Female Sinhala Hounds typically only breed once a year, with more frequent breeding being unhealthy. This is why it's essential to choose a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.
Here's a breakdown of their reproductive cycle:
Reproducibility
The Sinhala Hound's reproductive cycle is a fascinating process. The female Sinhala Hound is pregnant for 60-64 days.
During this time, you can notice physical changes in the female, such as a swollen vulva and bloody discharge. The reproductive cycle of the female Sinhala Hound consists of four stages: Proestrus, Estrus, Diestrus, and Anestrus.
Proestrus lasts for about 9 days, during which the female starts to attract males. Estrus, the receptive stage for males, lasts for about 3 to 11 days. Diestrus occurs around day 14, where the female's discharge changes to vivid red and comes to an end.
The female's vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months. This is a crucial aspect of responsible dog breeding.
Additional reading: Female Bloodhound Dog Names

Here's a breakdown of the reproductive cycle:
It's essential to note that more frequent breeding is not healthy for the Sinhala Hound. In fact, breeding more than once a year can lead to inhumane conditions, such as puppy mills. To ensure the well-being of the dogs, it's crucial to breed responsibly.
Recognition
The Sinhala Hound breed has a unique recognition status. It's not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) also doesn't recognize the Sinhala Hound breed.
If you're considering getting a Sinhala Hound, it's essential to know that this breed doesn't do well with allergy sufferers, as they can cause allergic reactions.
The Sinhala Hound breed isn't suitable for apartment living, as they have high energy levels and require space to roam.
Here's a quick rundown of the breed's recognition status:
The Sinhala Hound breed also has a strong desire for exploring the world, which means they can easily get distracted and wander off if not properly trained or supervised.
Pros and Cons

The Sinhala Hound is a wonderful breed, and one of the best things about them is their low maintenance grooming needs. They require minimal grooming, making them a great choice for busy owners.
One of the things that sets the Sinhala Hound apart is their low drooling tendency. This means you won't have to worry about cleaning up after them all the time.
They also have a low to average risk for obesity, which is great news for owners who want to keep their furry friends healthy. With regular exercise and a balanced diet, your Sinhala Hound can stay in top shape.
As a watchdog, the Sinhala Hound is one of the best. They're naturally alert and will sound the alarm if they sense anything suspicious.
If you have a busy schedule, you can rest assured that your Sinhala Hound will handle alone time quite well. They're not clingy dogs and will be happy to entertain themselves when you're away.
Here are some key pros of the Sinhala Hound breed:
- Grooming: Effortless
- Drooling Tendency: Low
- Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: Low to Average
- Watchdog Ability: Excellent
- Tolerates Being Left Alone: Yes
- Office Friendly: Yes
- Good For First Time Owners: Yes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the lifespan of a Sinhala Hound?
A Sinhala Hound's lifespan is typically 10-13 years. Learn more about this rare and unique breed from Sri Lanka.
What is the scientific name of Sinhala Hound?
The scientific name of the Sinhala Hound is Canis familiaris ssp.
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sinhala_Hound
- https://facts.net/nature/animals/10-fascinating-facts-about-sinhala-hound/
- https://dogell.com/dog-breed/sinhala-hound
- https://justusdogs.com.au/sinhala-hound-dog-breed-information-puppies-breeders/
- https://www.animalsosadoptions.com/to-adopt/breed-information-sinhala-hound
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