Spanish Hound (Sabueso Espanol) - Breed Information at Eukanuba.com

What Makes the Spanish Hound Magnificent? The Spanish Hound is a very even-tempered breed of dog that is loyal and affectionate to its owner and family. They are talented hunting dogs with fantastic stamina and enormous bravery. As well as hunting, the breed has been used for police work and as a watchdog with great effect.

The Spanish Hound is an old breed that can be traced back to the late Middle Ages. The Spanish Hound has been included in the writings of many great authors including being described in a book by King Alphonse XI from the 14th century. The Spanish Hound was used to hunt mostly hare, although it has been known to hunt a wide variety of quarry. Though not as popular as it once was, it is still used today as a hunter in its native land.

Country of origin: Spain Height approximately (at withers/shoulder): Males 52-58 cm/20 3/4 - 23 1/4 inches; Females 48-54 cm/19 1/4 - 21 1/2 inches (Standards may vary) Weight approximately: 66-70 lbs/30-32 kgs Coat: Dense, short, fine and smooth Colour: White and orange Markings: Colours distributed in irregular markings Lifespan: Average 12 years The Spanish Hound has a broad skull, broader in males than females, with a slightly rectangular muzzle. The nose is large and moist with well developed nostrils and its colour varying from light to dark black. The almond shaped eyes are a medium size and hazel colour giving the breed a sad noble expression. The ears are large and hang down a long way. The neck is strong and muscular. The body has a straight topline and a powerful broad back. The tail is carried in a slight curve hanging down and, when in action, it rises up in a sabre fashion. The forelegs are perfectly vertical and have short forearms. The hind legs are powerful and muscular with broad, defined thighs.

The Spanish Hound is an affectionate and calm breed of dog with considerable stamina; they show exceptional courage in the face of danger, when hunting. Whilst they are affectionate to their own family they are not suited to life as companion dogs preferring to work. Firm and consistent training required • Friendliness: Wary of strangers • Children: Not good with children • Trainability: Difficult to train • Independence: Quite independent • Dominance: Not overly dominant • Decorum: Not to be trusted with non canine animals • Combativeness: Tolerant of other dogs • Noise: An average barker

+ A very loyal breed + A very good versatile hunting and working breed + Doesn't require trimming or stripping - Needs firm training - Requires sufficient daily exercise - Not suited to apartment living - Not suitable for a novice owner The Spanish Hound is a wonderful breed that can be a loyal companion though they prefer to be hunting or working and are used in police dog work and tracking. The Spanish Hound was originally bred as a hunting hound for small game.