🐾 Istrian Short Haired Hound: The Elegant Hunter of the Adriatic
The Istrian Short Haired Hound (or Istarski Kratkodlaki Gonic) is an ancient hunting dog breed originating from the Istrian peninsula in Croatia. This breed is mentioned in manuscripts dating back to the 14th century and is depicted in a 15th-century painting. Unlike its rough-coated cousin, this dog has a short coat but retains a determined hunting temperament.
✨ Why adopt an Istrian Short Haired Hound?
The Istrian Short Haired Hound is an excellent companion for hunters or active families. Although it is primarily a hunting dog, it can adapt to city or apartment life as long as it gets enough exercise. This dog is particularly valued for its loyalty, sharp mind, and calm yet sporty temperament.
📊 Quick Facts
- Hypoallergenic? No ❌
- Weight: 15-25 kg
- Height: 45-59 cm
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Exercise needs: 2 to 3 hours/day
- Apartment living: Can adapt with enough exercise
🏅 Personality (from 1 to 5 ⭐)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Protective: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
👨👩👧👦 Gets along well with…
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (he is relatively gentle with children, but has a hunting nature)
- Other animals: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (adapts to cohabitation but may have a predatory instinct)
- Strangers: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (not particularly sociable with strangers)
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (adaptable with enough exercise and space)
> Note: This dog is primarily a hunter, but can adapt well to city or apartment life if given opportunities to hunt, run, and expend energy.
🛁 Maintenance & budget
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (short coat easy to maintain, but attention should be paid to the ears)
- Average annual cost: 450-600 €
- Purchase price: 800-1000 €
- Care: The Istrian Shorthaired Hound requires little grooming, but it is important to pay attention to its ears to prevent infections. Baths are only necessary when he is really dirty. The most important thing is to provide enough physical activity to satisfy his hunting instincts.
💬 In summary
The Istrian Shorthaired Hound is an energetic and intelligent hunting dog that adapts to various family situations. Suitable for apartment living as long as it has plenty of opportunities to exercise, it is an excellent choice for those looking for a dynamic and lively dog. With easy maintenance and a balanced character, it is both a loyal companion and a skilled hunter. 🦮
