Lithuanian Hound

COUNTRY: USSR
HEIGHT: 21-24 inches
COAT: Short and glossy
COLOR: Black with dapples
GROUP: Hound

This newest of the Russian scenthounds is a product of the present century. Lithuanian hunters crossed local big game hounds with Beagles, Bloodhounds (St. Hubert), Polish Hounds and later Russian Hounds, in an attempt to recreate the old-type Curland Hound (associated at one time with the Latvian Hound). Although progress was made at first, the breed was gasp- ing for life in the 1970s and very low in numbers. During the 1976-77 hunting season, many fine dogs were killed by boars, and the breed was threatened with extinction. That year the Lithuanian Cynological Council appointed a specialist to be responsible for perpetuation of the breed, created a special kennel facility for raising them and adopted a standard. The breed seems to be on its feet now, although it is still found only in the Lithuanian Republic.

This hound is a good-sized, robust dog of clean, sleek, yet muscular proportions. He has the fervor, speed and persistence to track hare, fox and even boar, and is known for his glorious voice.