Overview
The Barak is a hardy Bosnian scenthound developed to track and hunt large game across rough country.
Its rough, shaggy coat and bearded face are its trademarks. It is a working hunting dog, valued for stamina and determination.
History
Local hunters in Bosnia developed the breed in the nineteenth century from native dogs, crossed with an Italian gun dog in the 1890s. The early type of the smaller Istrian Shorthaired Hound may also have contributed.
The FCI first recognised it in 1965 as the Illyrian Hound, and the name was later changed to better reflect its Bosnian origin. Genetic studies show good diversity and a close relationship to the Tornjak.
Appearance
The most striking feature is the hard, shaggy coat in wheaten, red or greyish shades, often with a white blaze and other white marks. The body is about ten percent longer than tall, and the face carries a bushy moustache and beard.
It stands about 43 to 55 cm and weighs around 16 to 27 kg, with a tail carried slightly upward in a curve.
Temperament
The Barak is lively, courageous and persistent. Like most hunting hounds, it is strongly driven by scent and thrives on activity and purposeful work.
Care and exercise
It needs plenty of exercise and room to run, and is best suited to an active owner or hunter. A secure fence is wise, since it will follow a scent for long distances.
The wiry coat should be brushed weekly and tidied from time to time.
