Bosnian Coarse-haired Hound
Woof!
The Bosnian Coarse-haired Hound or Bosanski Oštrodlaki Gonič, also called the Barak, is a hunting dog breed developed in Bosnia. The breed is a scenthound, originally used to hunt large game.
In 5 Words
- Lively
- Courageous
- Persistent
- Friendly
- Active
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Size:
Males – 46 to 55 cm (18 to 22 inches)
Females – 46 to 55 cm (18 to 22 inches)
Weight:
Males – 16 to 24 kg (35 to 53 lb)
Females – 16 to 24 kg (35 to 53 lb)
Origin: Bosnia and Herzegovina
Life Span: 12 – 15 Years
Colour: Yellowish (wheaten or red) or greyish
Litter Size: 3 to 7 puppies
Characteristics
Learn About the Bosnian Coarse-haired Hound
The former name given to the breed was Illyrian Hound, referring to a pre-Slavic people of the area. Today’s breed is descended from indigenous dog types, crossed with an Italian gun dog in the 1890s. “Local hunters, wanting to produce an efficient scent hound, developed this breed in the nineteenth century, using the available stock of dogs.” The early type of today’s smaller Istrian Shorthaired Hound may also have contributed to the Bosnian Coarse-haired Hound.
The Bosnian Coarse-haired Hound was first recognised by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 1965 under the name of “Illyrian Hound”. The name was changed to more accurately describe its area of origin in Bosnia. The breed is in Group 6, Scenthounds, Section 1.1 Large-sized Hounds, and is breed number 155. It is also recognised by the United Kennel Club (US) as the “Barak”, in the Scenthound Group. The breed is not recognised by any other major kennel clubs in the English speaking world, although many minor kennel clubs, internet dog registry businesses, and rare breed registries promote and register it as a unique pet.
The standard calls for a body length ten percent greater than height; these proportions are given to differentiate the Bosnian Coarse-haired Hound from other hounds of the area which are “a bit low on leg” Height ranges from 46-55cm (18-22in) at the withers, and weight is between 16-24kg (35-53lbs). The dog normally carries its tail curved slightly upward, and its face has a bushy moustache and beard.
They are intelligent, but like most scenthounds can be a little stubborn and independent; however, they are usually fairly easy to train. They require early and consistent training that is firm; positive reward focused techniques work best. They can be a little sensitive and do not respond well to harsh treatment. With a stable pack leader they respect, they are very obedient well-behaved dogs capable of learning a variety of commands.
The Bosnian Coarse-Haired Hound is a hardy breed; however, they are prone to a few hereditary health issues. Owners should watch for hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, eye lacerations and bloat. To help prevent hip dysplasia, owners are best to buy from a breeder who offers puppies from OFA registered parents. To help prevent bloat, dogs are best served several small meals daily instead of one large and water and exercise should be with held an hour before and after eating. The breed has also shown sensitivity to anaesthesia, and is known for having difficulties during birthing.
The rough coat of the dog should be brushed daily to avoid the formation of tangles. This kind of coat should be plucked and not trimmed as it would destroy the texture and the color of the coat. The usual teeth brushing and ear cleaning must be done whether the dog is a pet or mainly used for hunting.
