Overview
The Staghound was an English scenthound bred to hunt red deer in packs. It was strong, tall and renowned for its scenting ability.
The breed died out in the 19th century when the last pack was sold, though its blood lives on in other hounds.
History
The Staghound likely descended from Southern Hounds, themselves derived from Norman Hounds and Talbot Hounds. Hunting stag was long a royal privilege in medieval England. Hounds were exchanged with French courts, and English Staghounds were prized in France.
As forests shrank and fox hunting rose in popularity from the 17th century, the sport declined. The last pack, of the North Devon Hunt, was sold in 1825. Most went to Germany and were later lost, while a few passed to enthusiasts and influenced the Foxhound, West Country Harrier and Welsh Hound.
Appearance
A strong, powerfully built hound standing up to about 69 cm at the shoulder, with dogs larger than bitches. It had a long head, broad nose and short coat.
The coat was usually bi-coloured, with yellow, lemon or badger patches on white, and yellow and white was the most common. It was taller, heavier and slower than the Foxhound.
Temperament
As a pack hound it was determined, hardy and driven by scent, working with other hounds in a group over long distances.
It was valued for its deep scenting ability rather than as a household companion.
Care and exercise
The breed no longer exists. In its day it lived in a hunt kennel with its pack and needed large amounts of daily exercise and work.
