Spanish Hounds

Originating in 14th century Spain, the Spanish Hound was used by King Alphonse XI for hunting small - and sometimes even large - game such as wild boar, hare, bear, wolf and fox, with superior blood tracking abilities, according to the United Kennel Club. This breed was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1996.

This medium-sized dog can reach a total height of between 20 and 22 inches for males and 18 to 21 inches in females. It features long ears, compact legs and feet, amber eyes, tapering tail, and a glossy coat with markings of lemon, orange and even red brown. It's best off in mountainous regions or on farms where it can run freely and do what it does best - hunt.

Personality

This affectionate, calm yet brave dog is by instinct an individual hunting dog, meaning it does best alone or with just one or two other dogs. This doesn't make for the ideal pet, as it needs a lot of space and alone time to run around on its own. Spanish Hounds need to be taught who's boss right away to establish pack leader mentality. When trained, this dog is extremely well-behaved. If untrained, they can become disobedient and aggressive. Spanish Hounds can be temperamental and as such they're not an ideal breed to raise as a pet in a small home. That being said, this dog is very loyal to its owner.

Breed Characteristics

Spanish Hounds Build Information

This medium-sized dog can reach a total height of between 20 and 22 inches for males and 18 to 21 inches in females. It features long ears, compact legs and feet, amber eyes, tapering tail, and a glossy coat with markings of lemon, orange and even red brown. It's best off in mountainous regions or on farms where it can run freely and do what it does best - hunt.

Behaviour and Personality

This affectionate, calm yet brave dog is by instinct an individual hunting dog, meaning it does best alone or with just one or two other dogs. This doesn't make for the ideal pet, as it needs a lot of space and alone time to run around on its own. Spanish Hounds need to be taught who's boss right away to establish pack leader mentality. When trained, this dog is extremely well-behaved. If untrained, they can become disobedient and aggressive. Spanish Hounds can be temperamental and as such they're not an ideal breed to raise as a pet in a small home. That being said, this dog is very loyal to its owner.

Appearance

Reduce shedding through regular brushing. Since Spanish Hounds love to run around outside and ferret out prey, they may be digging holes and getting very dirty. As such, you should check them for ticks and fleas on a daily basis. You don't need to bathe them all the time, though -- just a few times a year as needed should do the trick.

Spanish Hounds Common Health Conditions

To maintain optimum health, allow daily vigorous exercise for your Spanish Hound. These dogs are prone to bad breath, so good oral hygiene is required. This fairly healthy breed has no pressing health problems; however, like all dogs, it can become infected with ringworm. Proper vaccinations and medications are encouraged. It may also get hip dysplasia or experience ear problems.

Spanish Hounds Pet Insurance

When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.

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Breed Talents and Facts

The Spanish Hound is part of the scenthound breed. This European hound features a loud, distinctive howl, signaling different phases of a hunt with different types of howling and barking. The Spanish Hound is also known as Sabueso Espa?ol. The life expectancy of the Spanish Hound is 12 to 15 years.