Sarail Hound
Also known as Bengal Hound · Soriala Greyhound · Bangladesh Hound
Bangladesh, Sighthounds and lurchers
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 58–71 cm
- Weight
- 18–33 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–14 yrs
- Gentle
- Fast
- Alert
- Intelligent
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Sarail Hound is a tall, lean sighthound from Sarail in the Brahmanbaria District of Bangladesh, and the country's only native dog breed. It has a short, thin coat in colours such as brown and white, brindle or black and white. It is now very rare, kept by only a handful of families in its home area.
Size
- Size
- Large
- Height at shoulder
- 58–71 cm
- Adult weight
- 18–33 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Bigger breeds keep filling out until 18–24 months.
Lifespan
10–14 years
Most Sarail Hounds live 10–14 years. Like other large dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 7, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
It is described as gentle, mild-mannered and intelligent, and generally easy to train. It is also alert and bold, and its prey drive can be fierce when it sees something to chase.
- Gentle
- Fast
- Alert
- Intelligent
Food
For a typical 25.5 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,270 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 1 L–1.5 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Puppies of large breeds need a diet made for large-breed growth, so they grow steadily rather than fast.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
90–120 min a dayAs a sighthound it needs regular chances to sprint in a secure space, alongside daily walks. Keep it on a lead in open areas, as it may chase animals at speed.
Grooming & shedding
The fine, short coat needs very little care beyond an occasional brush. Thin-coated hounds may need protection from cold and can scrape their skin easily.
Health
Outside Bangladesh the breed is essentially unknown, and there is no formal breed registry. Strong chase instinct means small pets and livestock need careful management. Very little health information exists, so a general veterinary check is the best starting point.
The breed can be prone to
- Very little published health information
- Skin injuries due to the thin coat
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- General veterinary check
Not every Sarail Hound is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Local tradition holds that the breed was developed over centuries by Mughal-era nobility in Brahmanbaria, probably from Saluki-type sighthounds from the Middle East. It was valued for hunting and as a guard, and has been used in police and military roles. A well-known story credits a Sarail Hound with saving General M. A. G. Osmani from an ambush. Today it is on the edge of extinction.
- Country of origin
- Bangladesh
- Type
- Sighthounds and lurchers
- Recognition
- Not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club, or by any national kennel club
Is a Sarail Hound right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 10–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Sarail Hound FAQ
How big does a Sarail Hound get?
Adult Sarail Hounds typically stand about 58–71 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 18–33 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Sarail Hounds live?
Typically 10–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Sarail Hound need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Sarail Hound need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Sarail Hounds easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Sarail Hounds shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Sarail Hounds good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Sarail Hound live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Sarail Hounds have?
The breed can be prone to very little published health information, skin injuries due to the thin coat. Not every Sarail Hound is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.