Hound Dog Breeds: Traits, Types, and Companionship

Introduction: What Makes Hound Dogs Special?

The hound dog breeds group consists of 32 breeds grouped together by the American Kennel Club. Most dogs in this group were initially bred for hunting and tracking. Later, in the 1920s, hound dogs got their own group.

Types of Hounds: Sight vs. Scent

Hounds are classified as sighthounds and scenthounds. Sighthounds use their sharp eyesight and speed to locate prey. They can see slight movements even from great distances. Scenthounds use their sharp sense of smell to track animals. They can even follow these scents across rough lands and water bodies.

Sighthounds and scenthounds differ greatly in looks. Sighthounds usually have slender bodies built for speed. They also have longer legs that help them run fast. On the other hand, scenthounds are bred for endurance; they are required to track scents for hours. For this reason, scenthounds have shorter legs that keep their noses closer to the ground. Scenthounds like Basset Hounds also have long, floppy ears that trap the scent and aid them in their tracking work.

Meet the Top 16 Hound Dog Breeds

Basset Hound

Basset hounds are avid hunters, but they are also perfectly content being couch potatoes. Pleasing their owner is not the Basset’s priority. This trait can make them a challenge to train. However, they are still very loyal to their owners and also love food. So, a few tasty treats and consistency on your part can help you overcome your Basset’s stubbornness. 

Basset hounds were originally bred to be hunting companions due to their keen sense of smell. This is not a high-energy breed. They are certainly not the dogs who will play Frisbee or go jogging with you. 

If you live in an apartment, the Basset hound makes a great apartment dog. They have low grooming needs but do need some maintenance. Without regular grooming, your Basset could become a source of offensive odor and dirt.

Basset hounds are known to suffer from arthritis. Obesity is also common in these long-backed dogs. Thrombopathia and Von Willebrand’s disease are also seen in the breed.

Beagle

Beagles have been used as hunting dogs for many years. They hunt mainly rabbits. These scent hounds have a superior sense of smell and sniff everything. Today, these smart dogs are used as sniffer dogs at airports, where they sniff out dangerous items from travelers’ bags.

Beagles are happy, gentle, and friendly. They are also smart and eager to please, which can help in training. However, they do have a stubborn streak. 

Beagles enjoy being around people, and they love children. They are curious about things and like to explore. Beagles shed all year-round and heavily in season, so regular grooming is a must. They need plenty of mental and physical stimulation, as without these, they can indulge in destructive behaviors like digging, barking, and tearing up your bed linen. Common health issues seen in the breed are hip dysplasia, ear infections, cherry eye, IVDD, dental issues, and hypothyroidism.

Greyhound

Greyhounds were bred to pursue game by sight and later for coursing and in dog racing competitions. Despite their antiquity as racers and hunters, they have become beloved pets due to their gentle, affectionate, and stable temperament. Despite their racing history, greyhounds are content being lazy couch dogs. They do well in apartments and love being around people, including well-mannered children. They are also easy-going and a delight to train.

Greyhounds need moderate activity – a couple of walks a day. They also have minimal grooming requirements. Rescued Greyhounds with a racing history tend to have injuries and may need long-term treatment. The breed is prone to developing gastric dilation and volvulus, which can be fatal.

Afghan Hound

According to the AKC, the Afghan Hound could be the oldest among purebred dogs. They were mainly bred for hunting and have an inherent hunting instinct that needs to be consistently and patiently ‘trained out.’ Afghans have a gorgeous, silky coat that needs regular maintenance and grooming. 

Since they are large dogs, they need a lot of room and may not be suited for apartment living. Afghans also need a lot of exercise. They are capable of jumping high, so dog owners must secure their yards with a high fence. Afghan hounds are affectionate with their families and get along with other dogs. They are prone to developing hypothyroidism and necrotic myelopathy. They are also sensitive to anesthesia.

Dachshund

Dachshunds were bred to hunt badgers. They are available in three varieties based on their size and coat type. Dachshunds, or Dachsies, as they are fondly called, are affectionate, smart dogs. 

They are good with kids and other dogs, at the same time being generally adaptable and easy to train. The long-haired Dachshund needs more regular trimming and grooming compared to the smooth-coated and wirehaired Dachshunds. These smart, playful dogs make excellent watchdogs due to their protective nature. Health issues commonly seen in the breed include IVDD, luxating patella, hip dysplasia, and obesity.

Bloodhound

According to the AKC, the bloodhound is a world-famous sleuth hound capable of sniffing out lost or missing people. When they are off-duty, bloodhounds are docile, affectionate, and even playful. They are great with kids and other dogs and fairly easy to train. However, their tendency to howl or bay could be quite annoying. This, their large size, and their high-energy needs mean they may not be best suited to apartment living. 

Bloodhounds are also not very protective and do not make good watchdogs or guard dogs. They shed moderately and do not need too much grooming. However, they do drool a lot. Health issues common in this breed are bloat, hip and elbow dysplasia, and ear infections.

Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is a serene, calm dog. They were bred to be companions to big-game hunters. Today, they are usually pets or therapy dogs. Irish Wolfhounds do not make dependable guard dogs, as they are too serene. However, their large size is a good “intruder deterrent.” Irish wolfhounds are excellent with other dogs and affectionate with their humans. Their eagerness to please makes them fairly easy to train.

Irish Wolfhounds have wiry coats that shed moderately and do not need too much grooming. Health issues seen in the breed are bone cancer, cardiac issues, eye problems, bloat, and hip and elbow dysplasia.

Whippet

Whippets are lightning-quick dogs that were bred to hunt rabbits using a technique called “coursing.” They are descendants of Greyhounds and, like their ancestors, are known for their speed and agility. Like Greyhounds, Whippets are affectionate dogs that are good with kids and other dogs. They have minimal grooming needs as they don’t shed too much. 

Their medium size makes them ideal for apartment dwellers. They are playful and friendly, and fairly easy to train. However, they need regular mental stimulation, without which they could get destructive or depressed. Their high energy levels also mean they need to be exercised vigorously. Whippets love to be around their human families and are prone to separation anxiety. They typically suffer from health conditions such as cardiac disease, deafness, and eye disorders.

Saluki

According to PetMD, Salukis are one of the oldest hunting dog breeds. It is believed that these Egyptian dogs were even mummified alongside their Pharaohs. Salukis are elegant, slim dogs that are highly affectionate with their humans and generally good with kids and other dogs. However, they are not suitable for apartment dwelling due to their large size and high-energy needs.

Salukis do not need too much grooming, and they shed moderately. They tend to be aloof with strangers but do not make good watchdogs or guard dogs. Salukis need plenty of mental stimulation daily, and failure to provide this makes them bored and destructive. They are mostly prone to cardiac and thyroid issues.

Basenji

Basenjis were bred to hunt both by sight and scent. They are called Africa’s barkless dogs because they do not bark. Instead, they yodel! Despite being smart, they are considered difficult to train due to their stubborn streak. Basenjis are also quite aloof and may not always get along with other dogs.

Basenjis' compact size and barklessness make them ideal for apartment dwellers. However, they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, without which they tend to get destructive. Basenjis shed moderately but are generally low maintenance when it comes to grooming requirements. In fact, they are fastidious self-groomers and very much cat-like in this aspect. Fanconi syndrome, a kidney disorder, and eye issues like progressive retinal atrophy are commonly seen in the Basenji breed.

Bluetick Coonhound

Bluetick Coonhounds are speedy, nocturnal hunters bred mainly for hunting raccoons. Their name comes from their mottled, blue-grey tick pattern. Due to their hunting history, Blueticks are prone to baying, bawling, and emitting cacophonous chopping barks. This, their large size, and their high-energy needs mean they are not suited for apartment living.

Bluetick Coonhounds are great with other dogs since they are used to hunting in packs. They shed fairly heavily in season and need regular grooming. As they are eager to please their owners, they are fairly easy to train. Health issues commonly seen in the hardy breed are ear infections and bloat.

American Foxhound

Bred during the 18th and 19th centuries, the American Foxhound is a modification of the British Foxhound. They are placid and friendly dogs that generally do not bug their owners for constant attention. They are known for their laid-back and low-key personalities. Their eagerness to please their owners generally makes training easy, but some tend to have a stubborn streak. Since they were bred to hunt in packs, they are generally good with other canines.

American Foxhounds are quite healthy but could suffer from genetic issues like hip and elbow dysplasia.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

Rhodesian Ridgebacks were developed for big game hunting, and they hunted lions and other large animals. These unique hounds have a crest of hair on their backs that runs in a direction opposite to that of the remaining fur. This is why they are called Ridgebacks.

Rhodesians are smart, affectionate, even-tempered, and alert dogs. They are generally friendly, but due to their large size and hyperactivity, they may not be best suited for owners having very young kids. The breed sheds heavily in season and needs a moderate level of grooming.

Rhodesians are fairly easy to train. Their large size, aloofness with strangers, and affection for their families make them excellent protection dogs. Prepare to provide your Rhodesian with plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health issues common in Rhodesian Ridgebacks include dermoid sinus, eye and thyroid function-related disorders, and hip and elbow dysplasia.

Otterhound

The Otterhound is an old British breed dating back to the 12th century. They were bred to hunt otters that were decimating the fish population. 

Otterhounds are amiable and even-tempered dogs. They are known to be extremely affectionate to their humans. Despite shedding moderately, they do have extensive grooming needs. The playful and adaptable Otterhound is friendly with everyone. Despite this, they make decent watchdogs as they are highly protective of their humans.

Otterhounds are known to bay or bark loudly, and their large size and high energy needs do not make them apartment-friendly. They also need plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Otterhounds are generally healthy and hardy dogs, but a rare bleeding disorder known as Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia has been occasionally reported in the breed.

Pharaoh Hound

Although Pharaoh hounds were originally bred in Malta, they are considered an Egyptian breed because they were venerated by Egyptian ruling dynasties. Mummified dogs found in Egyptian tombs also bear a striking resemblance to the modern Pharaoh.

A unique feature of this hound dog is their ability to “blush.” The noses and the insides of their ears turn rosy pink when they are happy or excited. Pharaohs are extremely affectionate dogs that get along well with other dogs and kids. They tend to shed heavily in season, so regular grooming is a must. Pharaohs do well with positive reinforcement training. 

They are smart dogs and learn quickly. Excessive barking is a problem with this breed, so you need to mentally stimulate them to keep them out of trouble. Health problems commonly reported in Pharaohs are luxating patella, certain cancers, eye issues, and hip dysplasia.

Scottish Deerhound

Scottish Deerhounds are known by different names, like Scotch Greyhound, Rough Greyhound, Highland Deerhound, or simply Deerhound.

If you are looking for an affectionate, large dog that is good with kids and other dogs, then the Scottish Deerhound could be a good choice. Be prepared to spend a lot of time exercising this dog because this isn’t a breed that will be content with just a walk around the city block. These smart dogs also need mental stimulation. Their large size and moderate-to-high energy levels also mean that they need a large yard to run and play.

The Deerhound’s stubbornness and independent thinking can make training challenging. Be consistent and use positive reinforcement techniques to see results. They also need a fair amount of grooming. Deerhounds are prone to health issues like heart problems, coagulation issues, and osteosarcoma.

Compare Hounds by Lifestyle

Apartment-Living

Beagles and Basset Hounds are great choices due to their compact size and moderate energy levels. The barkless Basenji is highly suitable for people living in apartment units situated close together. You could also consider the Greyhound, which is a laid-back and calm hound dog.

Families With Kids

You have so many options here! Go for the Basset Hound, Beagle, American Foxhound, Irish Wolfhound, Dachshund, or Bloodhound. These types of hound dogs are gentle and patient with kids.

Active Runners/Hikers

Saluki or Greyhound are obvious choices here, but you could even consider the Rhodesian Ridgeback. All these hound dogs love to run, and their efficient gait makes them excellent for long-distance adventures.

Quiet Homes

A Basenji and a Greyhound should adapt well to quiet homes, as they don’t bark much. Irish Wolfhounds are also an option.

First-Time Dog Owners

Go for the Greyhound, Whippet, or Otterhound, known for their stable temperaments. Dachshunds are also a good choice. However, all these dogs still need a committed and consistent owner.

Hound Temperament: Independence, Intelligence & Nose Power

Hound dogs are often considered stubborn, but owners must remember their hunting history. These hunting dog breeds were developed to make decisions on their own and even question their master’s command sometimes.

Moreover, these dogs are extremely intelligent. They instinctively do not follow their humans all the time because they instinctively know that they can act on their own without human assistance. While training such dogs, always aim to become the most interesting person for the dog. Also, use high-value rewards that make it worth their while for them to obey you.

Scent-driven hounds like Beagles and Basset Hounds are often considered stubborn because of their “nose power.” In fact, these dogs can be described as “a nose with a dog attached!” With their fabled noses always on the job, they are highly scent-driven. Once they smell something interesting, nothing can get in their way. The good thing is they are also highly food-driven, so always keep some tasty treats to get them to obey you.

Tips for Training and Enrichment

Always keep the training positive. Harsh training methods can make these smart dogs shy or fearful. Be calm and consistent; the more consistent you are, the faster the results will be. Always keep the training sessions short and end each session with lots of praise and playtime.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Hound

The wide and wonderful world of dogs boasts 32 hound dog breeds. Given this wide choice, it can get overwhelming to pick a breed that is best suited for your lifestyle. 

Basset Hounds, Beagles, and Basenjis are some types of hounds good for apartment dwellers. Greyhounds, Whippets, and Salukis are ideal for runners and active owners. Greyhounds and Irish Wolfhounds are stable and calm-tempered. Got kids? Go for patient hounds like the American Foxhound, Irish Wolfhound, Dachshund, or Bloodhound.

Understand that each breed also comes with a set of good and not-so-good traits. Consider these traits carefully before buying or adopting a dog that is best suited to your lifestyle. If in doubt, consult a vet or a canine behavior expert to guide you. As always, prioritize adopting a dog over buying, as you will be saving a life.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Which hound breed is easiest to train?

American Foxhounds and Bloodhounds are hound breeds that are considered fairly easy to train.

What are some characteristics of a hound dog?

A strong sense of smell, a high prey drive, and a distinctive vocalization known as baying are some characteristics of hound dogs.

What is the best-behaved hound dog?

Bloodhounds are generally considered among the well-behaved hound dogs. Irish Wolfhounds and Greyhounds are also calm and generally well-behaved.

What are hound dog breeds?

Hound dog breeds are known for their keen sense of smell, excellent tracking abilities, and distinctive physical characteristics. From the speedy legs of a Greyhound to the scent-savvy snoot of Bloodhounds, there are various types of hounds, each with unique traits. 

How do I tell what kind of hound my dog is?

Look for distinctive physical features, study their behavior, and consider a canine DNA test for a precise answer if all else fails. 

Why are hound dogs so stubborn?

A hound’s independence and strong hunting instincts are often mistaken for stubbornness. It’s not necessarily that they don’t want to obey, but more likely, they’re following their nose and staying true to their roots.

Reference List

1. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/afghan-hound/#:~:text=Among%20the%20most%20 eye%Catching,silliness%20and%20a%20profound%20loyalty.

2. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/bloodhound/

3. https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/saluki

4. https://www.vetmed.auburn.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/GLANZMANN-THROMBASTHENIA-IN-OTTERHOUNDS.pdf

5. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/scottish-deerhound/

6. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/meet-sighthound-breeds/

7. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/meet-scenthounds/