The Lithuanian hound is a rare hound originating from Lithuania, a free-spirited and energetic breed. It is most appropriate for hunting hare, fox and boar and it is also pleasant as a family dog.
One of the first mentions of the breed is in the Statutes of Lithuania (sixteenth century). Where origins are concerned, it is thought that this dog has been born out of mixing bloodhounds with other hunting breeds, including Polish and Russian hounds. The resulted hound was once popular in Lithuania, but the number of individuals representing the breed has severely decreased after World War II. Some enthusiasts have helped to revive the breed with a repeated later decrease in the number of hounds, that time because of the habits of hunting which have suffered changes. The Lithuanian hound is preferred for hunting large game in open areas.
Where its looks are concerned, it is a dog of medium-size, with a robust muscular body and heavy bones. Its sleek body is covered in a short, dark black coat with brown areas on its chest, snout, ears and also forehead. Standards also recognize the hounds presenting a small white-colored spot on their chest to belong to the pure breed, but white spots on toes are not allowed.
These dogs have a large head, medium-sized muzzle and deep and broad chest and keep their long tail low. Their long ears are rounded at the tips and held hanging. Their neck is also long and does not show a dewlap. Given the strong feet, dogs of this breed are fast and brisk and can show their determination while in pursuit. In height, they can reach 21-24 inches (53-61 cm) and in weight, 60-75 pounds (27-32 kg). There are no health problems known to affect this breed in particular.
Temperament-wise, this hound is very determined while hunting and overall energetic and agile. It shows perseverance while in pursuit and great speed also. Since there is less need for these dogs for hunting purposes, breeders have hopes to use them for police work. The family raising such a hound will find it to be pleasant and agreeable. Its voice is often appreciated and also its good movement.
The owner of a hound of this breed needs to be firm, yet calm, and show confidence. It must be clear to the hound who the leader is, and that should be the owner and not the hound. Like other hunting hounds, the Lithuanian one needs a lot of exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily long walks and even jogs are necessary. Owners with bicycles can take the dog for a ride, as the dog will enjoy running beside the bike. Also where establishing who the leader is, it should be known that the dog must heel beside or behind the owner while on a walk.
Created in an attempt to recreate the Curlandish hound, the Lithuanian hound is a rare breed, not commonly found outside of Lithuania, an energetic and robust hound that gets adjusted to family life so long as it understands its role of follower, while the owner is the leader.
