Posavatz hound

Overall description of the breed

The Posavatz Hound, formerly known as the Sava Valley Hound, has its ancestral origins in Croatia. It is a very old European breed and its first appearance dates back to the 15th century in the Kras basin, a region located in the southeast of Zagreb.

Several times represented on frescoes, paintings or quoted in stories, it is especially described by Franjo Bertic from 1854. It is a hunting dog that is particularly appreciated in Croatia, especially for its ability to track large and medium-sized game. It was presented for the first time outside its country in 1924 at a dog show.

The Posavatz Hound was finally registered by the International Cynological Federation on April 8, 1955 and the latest update of the official standard was published on November 3, 2014.

Not very widespread outside its native country, the Posavski Gonic, from its native name, proves to be an affectionate life companion and an efficient working dog. A balanced and lively companion, he has a light but determined gait, with a solidly built, resistant and hardy body.

He has all the characteristics of the ideal hound, muscular, vigorous and enduring, his powerful lower limbs give him impressive energy and exceptional agility.

His chest is deep and ample, his bust is strongly built and associated with a straight and stocky back line which is discreetly rounded at the level of the loins. The head is built lengthwise, broad at the stop and tapering towards the muzzle, but without forming a point. The ears are thick, of medium size and fall along the skull to the base of the neck.

The coat of the Sava Valley Hound is short, silky and dense, slightly longer on the back of the lower legs and the tail. The basic colour defined by the standard is a red coat, in all shades, with white on the head, neck, chest and belly.

The Posavatz Hound has a balanced, but stubborn character, listens to its owners and performs well in obedience activities. They are a reliable companion that can be both an excellent house dog and a good working partner.

He has strong hunting instincts, is intelligent and obedient, and is particularly fond of playtime, especially when it comes to predatory activities, but a gentle, loving home is also suitable, as he can channel his boundless energy indoors if his daily energy needs are met. The biggest fault with this breed is that it barks a lot, a trait that could be a problem in an urban lifestyle.

In conclusion, the Sava Valley Hound is a hunting dog with a lot of stubbornness and temperament, but also a huge heart for his family, which he cares for very much.

Adult: The Posavatz Hound will weigh approximately 20-25 kg (44-55 lbs) and its withers height will be approximately 50 cm (19.5") for males and 48 cm (18.5") for females.