Bloodhound

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog bloodhound!

Here, you will find all the useful information about bloodhound. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.

Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.

Overall description of the breed

The Bloodhound is the reference of its kind, a very old breed since traces of its presence can be found in 550 B.C. It has always been selected and appreciated for its infallible sense of smell and its great resistance to effort. Bred and developed by the monks of Saint Hubert's Abbey, from which it takes its name, it was mainly used to hunt big game or to search for escaped slaves.

Nowadays, it is present in prestigious state bodies in many countries such as the police or the army, notably for the rescue of missing persons or for the search for drugs. Its nose is so accurate that for decades it was considered irrefutable evidence in the United States in criminal investigations. Popular in England and France, it was Belgium that inherited the breed's paternity and the International Cynological Federation recognised it definitively on 12 August 1960, the last update of the official standard in force was published on 13 March 2001.

Don't be fooled by its clumsy appearance, the Saint Hubert is a lively and very intelligent dog, despite its imposing size and heavy gait, it is an animal with remarkable stamina, capable of walking for hours in search of a track without the slightest difficulty. Strongly built, it is one of the larger breeds, in fact it is the largest of all the dogs in its class.

His body is rather long, inscribable in a rectangle, his chest is deep, amply developed and the bust is full. He is harmonious in his lines, coupled with a strong bone structure, powerful muscles and a voluminous morphology. His head is massive, broad and dotted with folds which contribute to the charm of the breed. The tail is of medium length, very thick at the base and tapering towards the tip. The coat is short, dense and stiff, mainly bi-coloured (black and tan) or single-coloured red, in all its shades, from light to dark.

The Bloodhound is profoundly gentle and peaceful in his daily life, close to his social group, he is an exceptional family dog. Despite his often sad appearance, he is jovial by nature and always willing to participate in games of all kinds, especially if it is an activity related to the search for objects (treats, toys), you can't make him happier! His calmness and placidity are generally deceptive, tireless walker and determined worker, he will surprise you with his agility as well as his courage.

Sociable, they remain attached to their master, nevertheless, their guarding skills will make them wary of people they don't know, as their protective instinct is particularly strong in the presence of family members. Versatile and devoted, the Saint-Hubert is a formidable companion for everyday life, reliable and trustworthy.

Adult: The Bloodhound will weigh approximately 46 to 54 kg (101 to 119 lbs) for males and 40 to 48 kg (88 to 106 lbs) for females, his withers height will be approximately 67 cm (26.5") for males and 60 cm (23.5") for females.

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Origins

The Saint-Hubert dog, also known as the Bloodhound, is an ancient breed originating from the Ardennes region in Belgium. This dog is renowned for its exceptional tracking and search abilities. Its ancestors date back to the hunting dogs bred by the monks of the Saint-Hubert Abbey in the Middle Ages. They were carefully selected for their exceptional sense of smell and endurance. The Saint-Hubert dog was used for hunting large game and for finding missing people, thanks to its unparalleled scenting ability.

History

The history of the Saint-Hubert dog is rich and fascinating. The monks of the Saint-Hubert Abbey in Belgium started breeding these dogs in the Middle Ages, around the 7th century. Their goal was to create a dog capable of tracking game over long distances. Over time, the fame of these dogs spread throughout Europe. They were introduced in England, where they contributed to the development of the breed known today as the Bloodhound. Their ability to track trails several days old makes them invaluable working dogs.

Standard

The standard of the Saint Hubert Dog breed describes a large, powerful, and noble dog. Males measure between 64 and 72 cm at the withers, while females measure between 58 and 66 cm. Their weight ranges from 40 to 54 kg. They have a massive head with a wide skull and long, drooping ears. Their eyes, usually brown or hazel, are sunken and give a sweet and melancholic expression. Their loose and wrinkled skin, especially around the neck and head, is a distinctive characteristic. Their short and dense coat is generally black and tan or fawn.

Physical characteristics

The Saint Hubert Hound is distinguished by its unique physical characteristics. He has a powerful and well-muscled body, designed for endurance. His head is wide and his long ears gracefully fall on each side of his face. His deep and expressive eyes, combined with loose and wrinkled skin, give him a distinctive appearance. His short and dense coat protects him from bad weather. The color of his coat varies from black and fire to fawn. His tail is long and held like a sabre. These physical characteristics, combined with his exceptional sense of smell, make him a remarkable working dog.

Character

The Saint Hubert Dog is known for its gentle, patient, and affectionate nature. This dog is extremely loyal and devoted to its family. Although it is generally calm and reserved, it can be very determined and persistent when following a trail. Its intelligence and independent nature can sometimes make it a bit stubborn, but it is also very sensitive and responsive to positive reinforcement. Its friendly nature makes it an excellent companion for children and other pets. However, its size and energy require adequate supervision.

Life expectancy

The Saint-Hubert dog's life expectancy is generally between 10 and 12 years. To maximize its longevity, it is important to offer it a balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and enough exercise. Regular health check-ups and disease prevention are crucial to maintain its good health. Due to its size and constitution, it may be prone to certain health problems, such as hip dysplasia and gastric torsion. With proper care and special attention to its specific needs, this dog can live a long and active life.

Exercise and activity needs

The Saint Bernard Dog is a very active breed that requires a lot of exercise to stay healthy. It needs long daily walks and enjoys stimulating activities that allow it to expend its energy and use its exceptional sense of smell. Tracking games and hikes are ideal for him. Because of his hunting instinct, it is important to keep him on a leash or in a secure space. Without adequate exercise, he can become bored and develop undesirable behaviors. Owners must be ready to provide him with an active and engaging lifestyle.

Recommended diet

To keep the Saint-Hubert Dog healthy, a diet rich in high-quality proteins is essential. Premium kibbles formulated for large active breeds are recommended to meet its nutritional needs. It is important to choose a balanced diet, including lean meats, vegetables, and whole grains. Dietary supplements, such as omega-3 for skin and coat health, can also be beneficial. Portions should be adjusted according to its activity level to avoid obesity and ensure it receives all the necessary nutrients.

Training and obedience

Training and educating a Saint-Hubert dog requires a patient and consistent approach. Intelligent and sensitive, this dog responds well to positive reinforcement methods. It is crucial to start training at a young age to establish good habits and reliable obedience. Early socialization is also essential for getting used to various environments and people. Training sessions should be varied and stimulating to maintain interest. Their independent nature may sometimes require a firm hand, but always with gentleness and respect.

Behavior with children

The Saint Hubert Dog is generally affectionate and patient with the children in its family. Its gentle and tolerant nature makes it an excellent companion for youngsters, provided it is properly socialized from a young age. However, due to its size and energy, it is important to supervise interactions with young children to avoid accidental incidents. Teaching children to respect the dog and interact with it appropriately is essential. With proper training, it can become a loyal playmate and a vigilant guardian for children.

Compatibility with Other Animals

The Saint-Hubert Dog can live with other pets, especially if socialized from a young age. Its friendly and tolerant nature allows it to get along with other dogs and even cats, as long as introductions are done gradually and under supervision. However, its strong hunting instinct can sometimes pose challenges with small animals. Proper education and supervision are essential to ensure harmonious cohabitation. In general, this dog adapts well to life with other animals if properly socialized and trained.

Grooming needs

The Saint-Hubert Dog has a short and dense coat that requires regular maintenance to keep it in good condition. Weekly brushing is sufficient to remove dead hairs and keep the coat clean and shiny. During shedding periods, more frequent brushing may be necessary. It is also important to regularly check and clean its long and floppy ears to prevent infections. Baths should be given occasionally, unless the dog gets particularly dirty. Keeping the nails at an appropriate length is also essential for its health and comfort.

Health

The Saint Hubert Hound is generally robust and healthy, but like all breeds, it can be prone to certain health issues. Among the common conditions are hip dysplasia, gastric torsion and some eye diseases. A balanced diet, regular veterinary care and plenty of exercise are essential to maintaining its health. Responsible breeders perform health tests on their breeding dogs to minimize the risks of hereditary diseases. By closely monitoring your dog's health and reacting quickly to any signs of discomfort, you can help contribute to a long and healthy life.

Average price

The average price of a Saint-Hubert Dog puppy can vary depending on the breeder, lineage, and region. In general, a puppy of this breed costs between 1000 and 1500 euros, or between 1100 and 1700 dollars. This price often includes the first vaccinations, health certificates, and sometimes a pedigree. It is important to choose a reputable breeder who tests their dogs for hereditary diseases and who raises their puppies in good conditions. Investing in a well-raised puppy can reduce future costs in healthcare and behavioral problems.

Expenses

The annual expenses for a Saint Hubert dog can vary, but on average, they range between 1200 and 1800 euros, or 1300 to 2000 dollars. This includes high-quality food, regular veterinary care, vaccinations, health insurance, grooming products, and accessories such as collars and leashes. Additional costs may be added for training, obedience classes, or specific activities such as tracking. Good financial planning is essential to ensure the well-being of your dog and cover all necessary expenses.

Name ideas

Choosing a name for your St. Hubert dog can reflect their unique qualities. For example, "Sherlock" evokes their detective skills thanks to their exceptional sense of smell, while "Bruno" means "brown" in Latin, referring to their often dark brown coat. "Rex" means "king" in Latin, highlighting their nobility. "Shadow" recalls their discreet but effective tracking role. "Max" is a strong and short name. "Hunter" for their hunting instinct. "Leo" means "lion", reflecting their strength. "Gus" for a simple and classic name. "Rocky" for their robustness. "Bolt" for their speed and energy.

Legislation and regulation

In general, the St. Hubert Hound is not subject to specific restrictions in most countries. However, it is always advisable to check local regulations regarding the ownership of large or working dogs. In the United States and Europe, there are no specific bans for this breed, but owners must comply with general laws on animal ownership and treatment. It is also important to be informed about local regulations regarding hunting and possession of firearms if the dog is used for search or work purposes. Good knowledge of local laws is essential to avoid legal issues.

Official recognition

The St. Hubert Hound is officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) under standard number 84 in group 6, section 1.1: Large-sized hounds. In the United States, it is also recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the United Kennel Club (UKC). In Belgium, the official breed club is the Royal Saint-Hubert Club of Belgium, which plays a crucial role in the preservation and promotion of the breed. This worldwide recognition reflects the importance of this breed in the world of hunting and working dogs.

Pedigrees

Pedigrees available for the Saint-Hubert Dog are crucial to ensure the purity of the breed and the health of the puppies. Responsible breeders provide pedigrees detailing the dog's lineage over several generations. These documents include information about the dog's ancestors, their championship titles, their health test results, and sometimes their working performances. In Belgium, the Royal Saint-Hubert Club of Belgium maintains a registry of pedigrees. For potential buyers, checking the pedigree is essential to ensure they are acquiring a high-quality, well-bred dog.

Destination and usage

The Bloodhound is primarily used as a tracking and search dog thanks to its exceptional sense of smell. It excels in search and rescue missions, as well as in tracking missing persons or injured game. In addition to its working abilities, it is also appreciated as a companion dog for active families. Its loyal and gentle nature makes it suitable for various roles, including participating in tracking and obedience competitions. Its versatility and character make it valuable in many situations.

Prohibitions

The St. Hubert's Dog is generally not subject to strict prohibitions, but some regions may have specific regulations regarding large dogs or breeds used for tracking. It is essential to inquire about local laws before acquiring a St. Hubert's Dog, especially if you plan to travel or move abroad with him. In some countries, restrictions may apply to working dogs or those used for search missions. Always check with local authorities to avoid legal complications.

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