The Slovakian Hound is not much of a show dog, as it was developed and used for hunting large game, especially wild boar. This medium size hound has a keen sense of smell and direction that has been an important part of the hunting game in the Slovakian forests for more than 100 years. This is where it originates from, and, although it has a great reputation amongst forest hunters and it is widely spread in Slovakia, the breed is rarely seen outside its country of origin.
Being the only scent hounds bred in Slovakia, they were made the national breed of the country. The type of hound has been known since antiquity but this particular breed was recognized only in the 1870s, having its own club formed in Bratislava in 1988. The breed can be found under a series of different names but its original name is Slovensky Kopov, which in English would be translated to Slovakian Hound, the name under which is actually registered in USA with the United Kennel Club. Other names, mainly created for marketing purposes, can include Black Forest Hound, used by small kennels in North America to promote them as a rare breed for that segment of the market looking for a unique pet or an unusual hunting dog.
Because of their ultrasensitive scent, they are highly valued mainly by the boar hunters, although they have the necessary skills to participate in any scent hunting game. They are very tenacious and courageous, and have an innate trait of following the scent for hours. Quitting is not an option for them, remaining restless until they catch their prey. Do not let the size and appearances fool you - this breed packs strong muscles built on a solid bone structure that enables them to pursue their goal almost endlessly. Their body shape is typical of a scent hound, namely rectangular.
Their height is 18-20 in (46-51 cm) and they weigh 40-55 lbs (18-25 kg). They are always black with tan markings (brown or mahogany) on their legs, chest neck and muzzle. The skin is close to their body, forming no folds, and it is covered with slightly coarse 2 to 5 cm hair, and with longer fur on the back of their neck and their tail. The tail is usually down when they are relaxed and up like a sword when they are alert or on a move.
Having relatively short hair requires little maintenance, but if you want to keep that sleek glossy look, brushing twice a week is required. For the hunting dog, which involves hours of outdoor running in the forest and among bushes, a more thorough brushing is necessary, since apart from the dirt that would cling to the coat, a lot of parasites like the dangerous ticks can get stuck and create health hazards.
Although the breed is praised as a wild boar hunter, these dogs make an excellent house pet for you and your family. The gentle nature of the Slovakian Hound makes it a great playmate for the children, whilst its natural skills would make it a great family guard dog.
