Dogs, one of the most intriguing mammals on the planet, are descendants of the wolf, and their
association with humans as domesticated animals goes back to 15,000 years. It is interesting to
know that dogs have been selectively bred over millions of years to have them acquire various
behaviors, specific physical features, and sensory capabilities to serve various purposes.
One such purpose is hunting, and dog breeds used for hunting are called Hounds. Do
you know there are over 100 hound breeds recognized in the world? I bet you didn’t.
In this video, we will go through the 10 most popular hound dogs in the world.
Number 10. Ibizan Hound The Ibizan Hound originated on the Island
of Ibiza and was used widely as a working dog in Spain, and France to hunt rabbits and small game.
They are intelligent and agile but a little shy with strangers.
By nature, they are faithful, calm-tempered, and make perfect house pets. But because of
their stubborn and independent nature, training them can be challenging.
Number 9. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhound is a sighthound bred from Ireland that was bred to pursue a game
and also served as a guard dog. They have been in existence for hundreds of years.
Back then, the Irish Wolfhound also served as a war dog besides being a hunting dog.
Over the years, they have mellowed down and are known to be gentle and easygoing.
Irish Wolfhounds are intelligent but introverted. They develop a close bond with
owners and other dogs they grow up with. They are loyal, affectionate, patient, and devoted.
Number 8. Scottish Deerhound
The ‘Royal Dog of Scotland’ Scottish Deerhound were used to hunt red deer by
coursing. They are gentle, eager to please, and friendly. They are good with children
except that they need supervision due to their sheer size.
Number 7. Pharaoh Hound The Pharaoh Hound is also known as
Kelb tal-Fenek which literally translates as ‘rabbit dog’ originated in Maltese. They are
highly affectionate with their human family, children, and other dogs but
are a little wary of strangers. They are intelligent and have a strong prey drive.
Interestingly, Pharaoh Hounds blush when they are happy or excited,
so much that their noses and ears turn pink. As a pet,
they are a wonderful companion for families with a high-fenced backyard and no other small pets.
Number 6. Rhodesian Ridgeback
The former lion hunter of South Africa, Rhodesian Ridgeback take its name after the ridge that runs
along its back. Their no-nonsense demeanor can be fairly intimidating owing to their strong build.
Their ancestry can be traced to the semi-domesticated ridged hunting and
guarding dogs of the Khoikhoi people that were crossed with European dogs.
The only indigenous African breed is known to be intelligent and loyal and a tad sensitive.
Number 5. Bloodhound
Bloodhounds are descendants of a breed created in France during medieval times
that were used to hunt boars and deers. It has an unparalleled ability to pick up scents
and tirelessly track them, making for an excellent police dog. A gentle, affectionate,
and even-tempered breed that can be a little difficult with obedience training.
Number 4. Whippet
Whippets are sighthounds that originated in England and are descendants of the Greyhound.
Whippets were bred to hunt rabbits at high speeds and are used in amateur racing, dog shows,
and lure coursing. This breed is gentle and reserved with a streak
of playfulness. They form a strong bond with owners and are a well-behaved breed.
Number 3. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a scent hound bred in France to hunt hare. The breed is a descendant of the
Bloodhound. Basset Hounds are friendly, playful, and have extroverted personalities. They get along
well with other pets and people. However, they are somewhat noisy and also stubborn.
Number 2. Beagle
The modern-day Beagle is a scenthound
bred in Great Britain in the 1830s to track down scents of small animals like rabbits.
They were bred from several breeds such as the Southern Hound, the North Country
Beagle, the Talbot Hound, and possibly even the Harrier. In terms of temperament,
they are affectionate, playful, and friendly. Their small size and even-tempered nature
makes them one of the best family pets. And the most Popular Hound Award goes to…..
Dachshund
A breed of German origin, Dachshunds were bred to scent, course, and draw out badgers
and other burrow-dwelling animals. They are generally friendly, affectionate, and playful once
they get to know you. And just like most hounds, they can be stubborn and difficult to train.
Let me know which hound dog interests you the most. And if it’s Beagle
then check out my channel, we have tons of beagle care videos. Later.