Overview
The Transylvanian Hound is a medium to large scenthound from the historic region of Transylvania. It is black with tan markings, sometimes with white on the muzzle, chest and feet, and carries tan spots above the eyes.
It is used chiefly for hunting and has a keen nose and great endurance. Devoted breeders brought it back from the edge of extinction, and it is now found in Hungary, Romania and neighbouring countries.
History
The breed is said to descend from hounds brought by the Magyars over the Carpathians in the ninth century, mixed with local hounds. In the Middle Ages it was a favourite of Hungarian nobles, with a tall variety for big game and a shorter one for fox, hare and chamois.
Farming, forestry and war nearly wiped it out, and many dogs were destroyed after 1947. A few survived in Hungary and Slovakia, and revival work began from the 1960s. The FCI recognised the breed in 1963. Only the tall variety survives today.
Appearance
A strong, squarely built hound with a long, unwrinkled head, medium pendent ears that taper to a rounded tip, and a broad chest. The low-set tail is left undocked and is carried curled at back level when hunting.
The short, close coat is black and tan, often with white markings. The tall dog stands roughly 56 to 66 cm and weighs 30 to 35 kg.
Temperament
Usually obedient, good-natured and easy to train, this hound is tolerant of children and very friendly with other dogs, as a pack hunter should be. With strangers it can be reserved, a little suspicious and introspective. In the field it shows courage and a fine sense of direction. It has a surprisingly high-pitched bark for its size.
Care and exercise
This is a working hound with plenty of stamina, so it needs generous daily exercise and does best with an active family or a hunter. Its short coat needs only occasional brushing. Early socialisation and consistent training suit its independent hunting nature, and a secure garden is wise because it follows its nose.
Health
Generally a healthy, hardy breed with a longer-than-average lifespan of 12 to 14 years and no known special hereditary disease.
