Bloodhound

 A breed which has been around for numerous centuries as a prized pack dog and an outstanding tracker.

 History:

Originating in Belgium, the Bloodhound was bred in the early Middle Ages and was called the Saint Hubert Hound. It was bred as a pack hound and used to track game - this it would do relentlessly for days on end if required. In the eleventh century, the Saint Hubert reached Britain with William the Conqueror, and was then selectively bred and refined. The name "Bloodhound" is thought to have one of two meanings: that it would follow a blood trail whilst tracking, or that "blood" indicates a pure breed, as in "blood horse."

 Physical characteristics:

A large, solid dog which moves with grace and dignity. Height: 25 - 27 in (64 - 69 cm) for the dog and 23 - 25 in (58 - 64 cm) for the bitch. Weight: 90 - 110 lb (40 - 50 kg) for the dog and 80 - 100 lb (36 - 45 kg) for the bitch. The head is long and large with a well-developed occiput, and loose skin folds which form wrinkles on its brow and drooping jowls. The nose is black with large, open nostrils. The jaws are long and have a scissor bite. The eyes are deep hazel or brown, are medium-sized and well set in. They have a drooping look with a solemn expression. The ears are set low and fall in long soft folds which curl inwards at the ends. The shoulders slope into a broad and muscular back. The tail is set high, and is long and carried low. The forequarters are straight with a rounded bone structure. The hindquarters are strong and sturdy.

 The coat of the Bloodhound is short, dense and smooth with good weather resistance. The coat colour is black and tan, liver and tan, red or tawny. The black extends from the head and neck over the back to the loin. There can also be white on the chest, legs and the top of the tail.

Behavior:

The Bloodhound is a most amazing dog. As far as scenting ability is concerned, the Bloodhound is the ultimate dog. This high degree of specialization can be wonderful. Nevertheless, owning a Bloodhound is rather like owning a Formula 1 racing car. Not because it is so fast but, like a racing car, this dog is highly tuned, very specialized, and just as wonderful to watch when it is working well. However, as it is very hard to drive a Formula 1 racing car when it is away from the racing track, it can also be very hard to get a Bloodhound to carry out basic maneuvers in dog training.

 With perseverance and training, the Bloodhound can make a good companion animal, but its preoccupation with scent should be considered before adopting one. Bloodhounds can make good watch-dogs if they are encouraged when they are young. They have a fantastic baying howl which will unnerve all but the most determined burglar. The Bloodhound is very sociable and craves the company of other dogs. It readily substitutes people for its pack and expects a lot of attention. The ears should be regularly cleaned, as it is hard for air to circulate around them and they may become infected.

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