COUNTRY: Hungary
WEIGHT: 49-68 pounds
HEIGHT: 25-27Vi inches
COAT: Short and a bit coarse
COLOR: All sighthound colors
OTHER NAMES: Hungarian Greyhound
GROUP: Southern
When ninth-century Magyars invaded Hungary, they were accompanied by cattle/sheep herding dogs and running hounds from the steppes of Russia. During the early centuries, these dogs crossed with native sighthounds, present since Celtic times, and created the Agar. These speedy and keen hounds were utilized for centuries by the nobility for formal hunts and coursing and by the peasants for poaching.
In the 20th century, Greyhounds were introduced for greater speed and elegance. Many Hungarians felt this was destroying the old-type Agar, diluting it until it is nothing more than a Greyhound's "poor cousin." In fact, the Agar is often referred to today as a half-breed. But recognition by the FCI in 1966 revived interest in the true breed, both in its homeland and elsewhere in Europe.
The Agar is used on hare and foxes in Hungary and chases the mechanical lure on the track. Although larger than the Galgo, he is still smaller than the Greyhound. Also distinguishing him from his English counterpart are a wide head and muzzle and the coarser haircoat for protection. He is a calm and affectionate dog.
WEIGHT: 49-68 pounds
HEIGHT: 25-27Vi inches
COAT: Short and a bit coarse
COLOR: All sighthound colors
OTHER NAMES: Hungarian Greyhound
GROUP: Southern
When ninth-century Magyars invaded Hungary, they were accompanied by cattle/sheep herding dogs and running hounds from the steppes of Russia. During the early centuries, these dogs crossed with native sighthounds, present since Celtic times, and created the Agar. These speedy and keen hounds were utilized for centuries by the nobility for formal hunts and coursing and by the peasants for poaching.
In the 20th century, Greyhounds were introduced for greater speed and elegance. Many Hungarians felt this was destroying the old-type Agar, diluting it until it is nothing more than a Greyhound's "poor cousin." In fact, the Agar is often referred to today as a half-breed. But recognition by the FCI in 1966 revived interest in the true breed, both in its homeland and elsewhere in Europe.
The Agar is used on hare and foxes in Hungary and chases the mechanical lure on the track. Although larger than the Galgo, he is still smaller than the Greyhound. Also distinguishing him from his English counterpart are a wide head and muzzle and the coarser haircoat for protection. He is a calm and affectionate dog.
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