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Dog Breeds: Understanding The Hound Group

These dogs are the first choice for hunting companions based on the face that they love to chase fast-moving objects. The three different groups that are classified in this breed they are– the scenthounds, the sighthounds, and the large-game hounds.

Scent Hounds

The scent hounds are dogs that are bred to follow scent. These dogs use their amazing sense of smell to track down their prey. These dogs are very easily distracted by any smell in their surrounding area, and because of this simple fact it makes it difficult to obedience-train them.  They are social dogs that are affectionate with their families, play great with children, and get along excellently with strangers. These dogs need extensive amounts of exercise due to the fact that they are active and energetic dogs.

Examples of scent hounds are: Beagle, Dachshund, Harrier, Otterhound, American Foxhound, Basset Hound, Black and Tan Coonhound, English Foxhound, Bloodhound, and Petit Basset Griffon Venden.

Sighthounds

Sighthounds use their eyesight to spot a prey before they go for the chase. These dogs are also difficult to obedience train because it is instinctual for them to run after their prey or objects. Early socialization, especially with small animals such as cats and birds, is mandatory in order to tame down this breed's prey instinct. They need daily exercise and proper obedience training.

Examples of sighthounds are: Saluki, Whippet, Afghan Hound, Borzoi, Greyhound, Pharaoh Hound, Ibizan Hound, Basenji, Irish Wolfhound, and Scottish Deerhound.

Large Game Hounds

Large game hounds were bred to have stamina, strength, and endurance. Their superior sense of smell makes them an excellent hunting companion. Originally bred to hunt elk and other game, this breed tends to be aggressive toward small animal. Early training and socialization is required to modify this behavior. This breed makes a great watchdog. They are initially suspicious of strangers and does not tolerate roughhousing. Children should be taught to be gentle with breed. Owner of large game hounds must have time to train and exercise this active breed.

Examples of large game hounds are: Rhodesian Ridgeback and Norwegian Elkhound.