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Breed Characteristics
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Greek Harehound
| Other Names | Hellenikos Ichnilatis, Hellenic Hound, Greek Hound |
| Country of Origin | Greece |
| Weight | 38 - 44 lbs. (17 - 20 kg) |
| Height (at withers) | 18 - 22 in. (45 - 55 cm) |
| Coat | The Greek Harehound has a short, dense coat that has a slightly hard texture. No trimming or stripping is required. |
| Colour | Its coat is usually only black and tan in colour, yet a small white patch may be present in some individuals. |
| Litter Size | 3 - 6 puppies |
| Life Span | 11 - 14 years |
| Origin & History | The Hellenikos Ichnilatis is a black and tan hound, built for tracking and chasing hare that is indigenous to Greece. It has existed for thousands of years and its progenitors are the ancient laconikoi (later: lagonikoi, where lagos=hare) kynes (dogs) native in southern Greece (Peloponessus). These were described and praised by many ancient writers and through colonization and sea-trade they became widespread in the ancient world. Descendants of the ancient Greek scenthounds can be found all over Europe and beyond. In its country of origin the breed had no competition and due to its isolation in inaccessible and often mountainous areas the breed remained pure and little changed. Ancient Greece covered most of the Balkans and so the Hellenikos Ichnilatis left its heritage in the neighboring countries, too: black and tan or tricolor scenthounds can be found all over this area. In Greece too, there is a not-yet officially recognized tricolor variety, localized in the very same vicinity that the ancient breed took its first name, in Laconia (Sparta), a south-most part of Peloponessus. In 1996 the Hellenikos Ichnilatis became the first Greek breed recognized by the FCI. |
Care Requirements
| Health | The Greek Harehound is a healthy breed with no known genetic defects. But like other dogs with pendulous ears, their ears are more prone to infections and need to be cleaned frequently. |
| Grooming | The smooth, shorthaired coat is easy to keep in peak condition. Brush with a firm bristle brush, and dry shampoo occasionally. Bathe in mild soap only when necessary. Inspect the feet and mouth for damage after work or exercise sessions. Keep the nails trimmed. This breed is an average shedder. |
| Exercise | The Hellenikos Ichnilatis requires a certain amount of freedom and plenty of exercise. This breed thrives on exercise, and if restricted tends to be destructive. It needs to be taken on a daily walk. While out on the walk make sure the dog heels beside or behind the person holding the lead, never in front, as instinct tells a dog the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. |
| Other Considerations | This is a natural breed that loves open spaces and can be a handful for the inexperienced dog owner. Certainly not a choice for the apartment dweller, this is an open-air breed that shows excellent manners when its needs are catered for. |
