The origins of the Belgrade Terrier are linked to the former Republic of Yugoslavia, a country that has a long history in the field of breeding dogs. The description of this dogs body is often associated with the Dachshund and the Basset Hound. It is generally believed that these terriers have descended from the small-scaled domestic Greek dogs, also being related to another local breed, the Balkan Terrier. In the first part of the last century, they were used in hunting (mainly vermin, but also foxes and badgers). After the decline of hunting, the Belgrade Terrier became a popular pet, especially for owners that appreciate active companions.
During the Second World War, not many specimens survived, but a handful of Serbian passionate breeders decided to revive the species, mixing their bloodlines with several other breeds along the way, such as the Bosnian Barak, the Dachshund, and, later on, even with Basset Hounds, Beagles, Cocker Spaniels or Poodles. The result is what we recognise today as a dog that is mainly an urban pet and less of the old hunter. Even today, the standardization of the Belgrade Terrier is far from over.
However, kennel and breeding authorities recognise it as a well defined breed. Amongst the organisations that recognise the breed, we can name the North American Kennel Club (NAKC), the Dog Registry of America (DRA), the American Pet Registry, Inc. (APRI) and the International Progressive Dog Breeders Alliance (IPDBA).
They can usually grow to a height ranging from 14 to 19 and half inches and can weigh from 15 to 25 lbs. Their coats come, most of the times, in mixes of different shades: blue, tan, sandy or liver, showing a tri coloured mix. Not being fully standardized, some would say that the ideal colouring would be a mixed fawn with white-marked paws and a black-lined back. A little massive and having a quite deep chest, this dog has an elegant silhouette and an aristocratic head.
Its hair is cotton-like and tends to become a little curly. The low-carried ears are rounded at the edges, the back has a beautiful arch form and the body is slender, showing hound abilities. Also, the legs of the Belgrade Terrier are not symmetrical the hind ones are longer than the ones in front. They are not difficult to groom, but, just as most dogs, they should be taken care of regularly. They should be brushed thoroughly, multiple times each week, in order to remove extra hair and to clean the coat.
As said before, they are an active breed, so they are perfect for owners that have a yard. It is very important to keep in mind that they could use long walks every day, as their lively way of being asks for it. Being very faithful to their owners, when kept in the open, they might sometimes show positive watchdog tendencies, by being protective and obedient.
Tolerant of other animals, good with children, loving, faithful and playful, the Belgrade Terrier of today can be a great urban pet.
