Istrian Shorthaired Hound

The Istrian Shorthaired Hound is a white-and-orange scent hound from the Istrian peninsula, and one of the oldest hound breeds of the Balkans.

History

It is documented in Istria from the fourteenth century and was bred to trail hare and fox over the peninsula's rocky karst country, working alone or in small groups rather than in large packs. It is recognised internationally but rarely seen outside Croatia and Slovenia.

Temperament

The breed is known for being gentle and even-tempered at home, obedient by hound standards, and thoroughly persistent once it has a line.

Care and training

It needs a great deal of exercise and secure ground. The short white coat is easy and the drop ears want routine checking.

Health

Generally robust, with ear infections the usual hound complaint. These are patterns for the breed rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.