Швейцарская гончая

Breed Description

The Swiss Hound is a breed of hunting dogs known for its keen sense of smell, endurance, and balanced temperament. These dogs have an ancient history dating back to prehistoric times and played a significant role in hunting and the lives of people in what is now Switzerland. The origin of the Swiss Hound is linked to the ancient Celtic tribes that inhabited the area. It is believed that the ancestors of these dogs accompanied the Celts in their nomadic lifestyle and were adapted for hunting a variety of game. Throughout numerous wars and migrations, the breed underwent changes, mixing with other local dogs. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the Swiss Hound became particularly popular among the nobility. Its high efficiency in hunting, along with the resilience and loyalty of these dogs, made them indispensable companions. Due to their abilities, they spread widely not only in Switzerland but also beyond its borders.

The Swiss Hound requires minimal grooming. Its short coat needs only weekly brushing to remove dead hair and maintain its shine. It is also important to monitor the condition of the ears, as they are prone to inflammation. Regular teeth cleaning and nail trimming are also part of the necessary care. Due to its high activity level, the Swiss Hound requires plenty of physical exercise. Long walks, runs, and various outdoor games help keep the dog in good physical shape and satisfy its hunting instincts. The Swiss Hound is a breed with a rich history and unique hunting qualities. It combines endurance, loyalty, and high intelligence, making it an excellent choice for both hunters and families leading an active lifestyle. Proper care and attention to the needs of this dog will help you gain a loyal and reliable friend for many years. The price for a puppy ranges from 50,000 to 80,000 rubles.

Breed Description

The Swiss Hound is a breed of hunting dogs known for its keen sense of smell, endurance, and balanced temperament. These dogs have an ancient history that dates back to deep antiquity and played an important role in hunting and the lives of people in what is now Switzerland.

The origin of the Swiss Hound is linked to ancient Celtic tribes that inhabited present-day Switzerland. It is believed that the ancestors of these dogs accompanied the Celts in their nomadic lifestyle and were adapted for hunting a variety of game. Through numerous wars and migrations of tribes, the breed evolved, mixing with other local dogs.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, the Swiss Hound gained particular popularity among the nobility. Its high efficiency in hunting, as well as the endurance and loyalty of these dogs, made them indispensable companions. Thanks to their abilities, they spread widely not only in Switzerland but also beyond its borders.

The Swiss Hound is low-maintenance. Its short coat requires minimal attention, with regular brushing once a week sufficient to remove dead hair and maintain its shine. It is also important to monitor the condition of their ears, as they are prone to inflammation. Regular teeth cleaning and nail trimming are also part of the essential care.

Due to its high activity level, the Swiss Hound needs plenty of physical exercise. Long walks, runs, and various outdoor games will help keep the dog in good physical shape and satisfy its hunting instincts.

The Swiss Hound is a breed with a rich history and unique hunting qualities. It combines endurance, loyalty, and high intelligence, making it an excellent choice for both hunters and families leading an active lifestyle. Proper care and attention to the needs of this dog will help you gain a loyal and reliable friend for many years.The price for a puppy is 50,000 to 80,000 rubles.

Отличительные черты

Голова

The head of the Swiss Hound is proportional to its body, with an elongated but not pointed muzzle. The skull is moderately wide and slightly convex. The transition from the forehead to the muzzle is smooth yet distinctly defined. The neck of the Swiss Hound is medium in length, strong and muscular, without excess skin. It smoothly transitions into a powerful and well-developed withers.

Морда

The muzzle of the Swiss Hound is narrow, with a straight or slightly arched bridge. The nose is usually black, with well-developed nostrils that provide excellent scenting ability essential for hunting. The tip of the nose is large and moist.

Уши

The ears of the Swiss Hound are hanging, soft to the touch, and of medium length. They are positioned at eye level or just below, closely hanging against the cheeks. The ends of the ears are rounded, which gives the dog a unique elegance and charm.

Глаза

The eyes of the Swiss Hound are medium-sized, oval-shaped, and are positioned slightly slanted, which gives the gaze expressiveness and intelligence. The eye color is usually dark brown, although lighter shades that match the coat color are also acceptable. The gaze of the Swiss Hound is always attentive and lively, reflecting its high intelligence and curiosity.

Зубы

The jaws of the Swiss Hound are strong, with a full set of teeth. The bite is scissor-like, which ensures effective grasping and holding of prey. The teeth are white and even, well-positioned in the jaws.

Корпус

The back is straight and muscular, with a short and strong lower back. The chest is deep and wide, with well-developed ribs. The abdomen is toned, providing the dog with agility and ease of movement.

Конечности

The front limbs are straight and parallel, with strong bones and well-developed muscles. The shoulder blades are sloped, allowing for free and broad movement. The paws are round, with tightly fitting toes and strong claws. The hind limbs are powerful, featuring well-developed thighs and muscular shins. The knee joints are strong, with pronounced angles, which provides the dog with pushing power and speed.

Хвост

The tail of the Swiss hound is of medium length, thick at the base and tapering towards the end. When at rest, the tail typically hangs down, but in motion, it is carried straight or slightly curved upwards, never curled over the back. The tail is covered with short, dense fur that accentuates the elegance of the dog.

Шерсть

The coat of the Swiss Hound is short, dense, and smooth, fitting closely to the body.

Окрас

The color of the fur can vary, but the most common combinations are white-red, white-black, and tricolor. Light markings usually appear on the chest, paws, and tip of the tail, adding extra elegance to the dog.

Особенности породы

Дружит с детьми

Гиперактивная

Пригодна для охоты

Легко обучаема

Очень умна

Appearance

The Swiss Hound is a hunting dog distinguished by its elegant and functional appearance. Its look immediately draws attention with its proportions and harmony.

The Swiss Hound is considered a medium-sized breed. Males stand between 49 to 59 cm at the shoulder, while females range from 47 to 57 cm. Their weight usually ranges from 20 to 25 kg, which gives these dogs the necessary endurance and agility.

The build of the Swiss Hound is harmonious and proportional. Its body is elongated but not excessively long, muscular, which provides high endurance and the ability for prolonged hunting. The chest is deep and wide, facilitating good lung ventilation and overall stamina.

The appearance of the Swiss Hound is a harmonious combination of strength and endurance. The dogs impress with their proportionate build and smooth lines, making them not only excellent hunters but also appealing companions for active people. Their expressive gaze, fluid movements, and overall look make the Swiss Hound a unique breed that is easily recognizable and memorable.

Care and Maintenance

The Swiss Hound is an active dog that requires significant space for its energy. These dogs thrive best in country homes with large, enclosed yards where they can run and play freely. However, with adequate physical activity and attention from the owner, the Swiss Hound can adapt to life in an urban apartment.

Living Space

– Yard. If you have a private home, provide the dog with a safe, enclosed yard. Swiss Hounds enjoy spending time outdoors, exploring their surroundings, and being active.

– Apartment. In an urban apartment, it is essential to arrange frequent walks and energetic playtime to prevent the dog from getting bored and accumulating excess energy.

Coat Care

The coat of the Swiss Hound is short, dense, and smooth, making maintenance relatively simple.- Grooming. Periodic brushing once a week will help remove dead hair and keep the coat shiny and healthy. During shedding seasons (spring and fall), more frequent brushing may be required.- Bathing. Bathe the Swiss Hound as needed, usually every few months or after significant soiling. Use a mild dog shampoo to avoid irritating the skin.Care for Ears, Teeth, and Nails- Ears. The Swiss Hound has floppy ears that are more prone to inflammation. Regularly check the ears and clean them using special dog ear care products. At the first signs of an unpleasant smell or discharge, consult a veterinarian.- Teeth. Brush your hound’s teeth with special dog toothpaste 2-3 times a week. Regular chewing toys and bones will help reduce plaque and prevent gum disease.- Nails. Trim the nails as needed, usually once a month. If you hear the nails clicking on the floor, it’s time to trim them. Use special dog nail clippers and be careful not to damage the living part of the nail.NutritionProper nutrition is key to the health and activity of your Swiss Hound. It’s important to

Training and Education

The Swiss Hound not only possesses outstanding hunting qualities but also a high level of intelligence. To achieve the best results in training, it is essential to consider the character and behavior traits of this breed. A proper approach to education will help raise an obedient, balanced, and happy pet.

Key Principles of Training

The foundation of effective training for a Swiss Hound lies in the use of positive reinforcement methods. This means that for correct behavior and command execution, the dog receives rewards in the form of treats, praise, or favorite toys. This approach stimulates the dog’s desire to learn and cooperate with its owner. Consistency and regularity are crucial for successful training. Commands and rules should be clearly defined, and behavioral expectations should remain constant. Regular training sessions and repetition of learned skills will help consolidate knowledge and prevent forgetfulness.

Swiss Hounds have good concentration; however, prolonged training sessions can lead to fatigue and loss of interest. The optimal duration for a training session is 10-15 minutes. It is better to conduct several short sessions throughout the day than one long one.

Socialization

Early socialization is critical for a Swiss Hound. From a young age, the puppy should be exposed to various people, animals, and environments. This will help it become a confident and well-adjusted adult. It is important to include diverse situations in the socialization process: walks in different places, meetings with other dogs, and visits to public areas. Being hunting dogs, Swiss Hounds may exhibit a strong chasing instinct. Therefore, it’s essential to train them to walk on a leash from an early age. Start with short walks, gradually increasing their duration. If the dog pulls on the leash, stop and resume movement only when it returns to you and eases the tension.Working on ResponsivenessSwiss Hounds often work independently, so responsiveness to commands is crucial. Regularly practice the “Come” command in different environments: at home, outside, in the park. Increase the difficulty by adding distractions. It is important for the dog to understand that following this command always brings positive emotions and rewards.Swiss Hounds can be prone to excessive barking or howling, especially when they feel lonely or bored. To reduce this behavior, it is neces

How to Choose a Puppy

Choosing a Swiss Hound puppy is a responsible and important step that requires careful consideration. The first step in selecting a puppy is defining your goals. The Swiss Hound is a versatile breed, suitable for both hunting and family life. Decide what is more important to you: hunting qualities, participation in exhibitions, or simply having a loyal companion. Choosing a reliable breeder of hunting dogs is one of the key aspects. A professional dog breeder not only cares for the health and well-being of their pets but also carefully selects breeding pairs to ensure the puppies inherit the best traits of the breed.

How to find a good dog breeder in Russia:

– Recommendations. Ask for advice from other owners of Swiss Hounds, veterinary clinics, or hunting dog clubs.

– Visiting kennels: Personally visit several kennels to assess the living conditions of the dogs and interact with breeders.

– Documentation. Check for all necessary documents, including pedigrees, health certificates, and results of tests for genetic diseases.

The health of the puppy is the main priority. When choosing a puppy, pay attention to the following aspects:- Appearance. The puppy should be active, have a shiny coat, clear eyes, and clean ears. Take note of the skin condition-there should be no rashes or irritations.- Appetite. A healthy puppy has a good appetite and shows interest in food.- Vaccinations and treatments. Make sure the puppy has undergone all necessary veterinary treatments and has vaccination records in its veterinary passport.Swiss Hounds are known for their friendly and balanced character. When choosing a puppy, it’s important to observe its behavior and temperament.- Activity. The puppy should be curious and active, but not overly aggressive.- Socialization. Notice how the puppy interacts with other puppies and people. It should be friendly and not afraid of new situations.- Obedience. Observe how the puppy reacts to commands and encouragement. A well-trainable puppy shows interest in interacting with people and quickly learns new skills.When choosing a Swiss Hound puppy, it’s important to study its pedigree. This will help you understand what qualities it may inherit from

Health and Diseases

The Swiss Hound is characterized by good physical condition, a strong immune system, and endurance. They are well-suited to an active lifestyle and can withstand significant physical exertion. However, despite their overall resilience, there are hereditary and age-related diseases specific to this breed.

Genetic Diseases

Hip Dysplasia is a hereditary condition marked by improper development of the hip joint. This can lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis. It is important to have regular check-ups and monitor joint health, especially in adult dogs.

Retinal Atrophy is a hereditary eye disease that results in gradual vision loss. It may begin with reduced night vision and progress to complete blindness.

Age-Related Diseases

Arthritis. As Swiss Hounds age, their risk of developing arthritis increases, particularly if they have undergone significant physical strain in their youth. Arthritis causes joint inflammation, leading to pain and limited mobility.Prevention and Treatment:Weight control.Frequent moderate-intensity exercise.Anti-inflammatory medications and pain relievers as prescribed by a veterinarian.Physiotherapy.Heart Diseases. Swiss Hounds may develop heart conditions as they age, including cardiomyopathy and heart failure.Prevention and Treatment:Regular veterinary check-ups, including ECG and echocardiograms.Low-sodium diet.Medications to support heart function.Infectious DiseasesSwiss Hounds, like other breeds, can be susceptible to various infectious diseases. Regular vaccination and maintaining the dog’s immune system are essential.Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection transmitted through contaminated water or contact with infected animals. It can cause severe liver and kidney damage.Prevention and Treatment:Regular vaccinations.Avoiding contact with potentially contaminated water.Early veterinary consultation at the first signs of illness.Lyme disease is transmitted