History
Transylvanian Hound originated at the time when Asian Hounds escorted the popular Hungarian Magyar tribes entering Transylvania in the ninth century and later crossed with some of the domestic varieties and Celtic hounds. Eventually, the dog which was developed from the cross got enormous popularity in middle ages and was primarily used to hunt in the forest areas and the Carpathian Mountains.
They had two varieties short and long legged. The longer breeds were used for significant hunting games like bear, boar, lynx, and European bison, whereas the shorter ones hunted hare, fox, and chamois.
Recognitions
Mostly nobility class for sports hunting owned it. The number of dogs declined hastily when agriculture became prominent, and in the twelth century, they were almost extinct. It got recognition in 1963 by the FCI, and the efforts of saving started in 1968. However, among the two varieties, the ones with long legs presently remain in Romania and Hungary. Hungarian Kennel Club provided a natural recognition, while the United Kennel Club recognized it in 2006. However, the American Kennel Club (AKC) has yet not set a standard for this breed but added it to the Foundation Stock Service Program (2015).
Temperament & Personality
These dogs developed for hunting, but are great house pets because of their brave, loyal and friendly nature. They survive best with the people on a garden/farm or the countryside instead of the condo life. Transylvanian hounds portray high tolerance level and can survive in unfavorable weather conditions. They are ideal companion dogs and love to spend time with the family.
These dogs quickly mingle with older children and interaction with little kids needs supervision. Due to their hunting insight these dogs are very protective of the family and territory, they can do anything to protect them. Moreover, they are very leery of strangers and growls and violently barks if they spot any intruders inside its house, making them an ideal watch dog. They are known for their direction sense and the smelling instinct which makes it curious for following the scent.
Care
Exercise
These dogs are energetic and require a substantial exercising schedule, like long walks twice a day with some jogging. Ample exciting games in a play yard will keep them energized. Puzzle games or games like catching and ball games will not only keep them busy, but will also provide mental stimulation. If the dog does not get adequate exercise, it might develop odd behaviors.
Grooming
The dog does not require high maintenance, though it has a double coat because it is a low shedder. Brushing its coat once a week with a soft slicker brush or bristle brush will be helpful to remove dead hairs and dirt. It sheds twice a year and during its shedding season, it requires bathing with a mild shampoo to accelerate the shedding process.
Sometimes the dog develops a bad odor or the doggy smell. To curb the smell, a dry shampoo can be used. It will allow it to smell better and offer shine to its coat. The dog has droopy ears which retain moisture and wax collection and require checking every week to thwart painful infection. Their nails grow very fast and need checking every week; overgrown nails will require clipping with a clipper. Tooth brushing twice a week will keep up with its oral health and baffle tartar development.
Health Problems
It is generally a healthy breed and is not prone to severe health problems. But, it might suffer from Hip and elbow dysplasia sometimes. However, random tests like OFA on hips and elbows and random veteran checkups will keep the dog healthy.
Training
The eagerness for pelasing their owners makes training easy. However, a firm and consistent trainer is crucial to check its stubborn and independent nature.
Predominantly strong prey drive is evident when they are taken out of their territory making leash training crucial. They wander off to track various scents. Therefore, it is essential to acquaint them with commands like “Come,” “Go,” “Sit,” “No” and many more. This training will help the owner to control the dog quickly and will stop them from disobeying commands.
They require socialization at an early age. Allow the pet to meet new people by visiting public places. Puppy parties and a visit dog’s park will make them meet other canines and will quickly mix with them.
Obedience training will allow them to learn simple manners and etiquettes which a pet dog must have.
Feeding
To keep up with their energy level, they will require nutritious food. Homemade food rich in proteins and vitamins are recommended. 2 ½ cups of commercial dry dogs diet will be adequate and dividing meals will keep its digestion on track.
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