Transylvanian bloodhound: the hunting dog of the Carpathians
The Transylvanian Hound(Erdélyi Kopó) is an ancient Hungarian dog breed, bred for hunting big and small game in the Carpathian Mountains, with origins from Magyar and Polish dogs.
The earliest records of the breed are attested in the Middle Ages.
The Transylvanian Hound was the favorite hunting dog of the nobility
At this time theErdelyi Kopo, as it was commonly called in the eastern area, was the favorite hunting dog among the nobility.
The development of agriculture subsequently prompted the abandonment of hunting in favor of cultivation with the result that the hound’s presence in the territory was reduced to the point of near extinction.
Its use was confined to the inaccessible mountains and forests of the Carpathians.
In addition, when the Romanians conquered Transylvania, to give a clear sign of supremacy and emphasize their new presence in the territory, they also decided to exterminate the hound.
Fortunately, since the 1960s, Hungarian enthusiasts have undertaken serious recovery work based on the few remaining specimens, bringing the breed back into vogue.
The recognition of race
In 1968 the FCI standard was published.
This standard provided a basis for the protection of the breed, ensuring that breeders follow specific guidelines to preserve the genetic and behavioral characteristics of the Transylvanian Hound.
Today, the population of the Transylvanian Bloodhound is growing, with several breeders dedicated to its conservation and promotion in Romania and abroad.
Physical characteristics and appearance of the Transylvanian Hound
It is characterized by a jointed, muscular body with drooping ears and an elongated muzzle.
The paws are solid and sturdy, enabling them to hunt in the roughest terrain.
The lesser variety of these dogs range from 45 to 50 centimeters at the withers, while the greater variety range from 55 to 65 centimeters.
The weight of a Transylvanian bloodhound can vary between 20 and 30 kg, depending on size and sex.
Its fur is short and dense, with a variety of colors ranging from black, to brown, to fawn, with possible white spots.
The temperament of the Transylvanian Hound
Lively and active, its ability to chase and sniff is a hallmark of the breed.
Because of its excellent sense of smell, it is able to follow even very old tracks.
Despite its past as a large- and small-game hunting dog, the Transylvanian hound is an excellent companion in urban settings as well.
Affectionate and protective, it creates deep bonds with its humans and adapts well to family life, as long as it gets sufficient exercise: it is not a dog to be relegated to the couch, in short.
Head down, nose to the ground, agile running, unerring nose and an extraordinary sense of direction: the Transylvanian Hound is an accomplished four-legged hiker who loves to scout and reach the most inaccessible ravines.
Pathologies to pay attention to
The Transylvanian Hound is a dog of solid health however, like many dog breeds, it can be prone to some diseases.
Common ones include hip and elbow dysplasia, eye problems, and skin allergies.
Because of the conformation of its long ears, it is prone to ear infections like most hounds.
It is essential to have regular veterinary checkups and follow an appropriate vaccination schedule.
To have your Transylvanian Bloodhound checked, for vaccines and periodic check-ups, contact the veterinary doctors on our staff who are always available to you.
We would also like to remind you that Clinica La Veterinaria is always open h24 every day including holidays and with First Aid service from 8 pm to 8 am.
