Slovakian Hound
Also known as Slovenský Kopov · Chien Courant Slovaque · Slowakischer Laufhund · Sabueso Eslovaco
Slovakia, Scent hounds
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 40–50 cm
- Weight
- 15–20 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Courageous
- Loyal
- Good-natured
- Scent-driven
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Slovakian Hound
The Slovakian Hound is a scent hound bred in Slovakia to trail wild boar, fox and other game through forested hills. It is a medium-sized, strongly built dog with a short, dense coat in black and tan and well-set drop ears. It is a hunting specialist.
Temperament
Brave, loyal and good-natured with its family. It follows its nose and makes its own decisions, so it suits an experienced handler.
Exercise
It needs long outings with plenty of sniffing, ideally scent games or tracking, and enclosed ground so it cannot follow a trail away.
Grooming
Its short, dense coat is easy to look after with a weekly brush.
Care & wellbeing
Check ears and keep lean. Secure fencing is vital.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 17.5 kg adult- Water
- 700 ml–1.1 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 960 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Slovakian Hound
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A Slovak scent hound used for hunting wild boar, fox and other game in mountainous forests. A hardy, black-and-tan hunter with a strong voice and tracking drive.
Health
There's limited reliable published information on health issues in the Slovakian Hound. Breed clubs and your vet are the best sources.
Not every Slovakian Hound is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 year commitment
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Slovakian 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
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Slovakian Hound get?
Adult Slovakian Hounds typically stand about 40–50 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 15–20 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Slovakian Hounds live?
Typically 12–14 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 Slovakian 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 Slovakian Hound need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Slovakian Hounds easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Slovakian Hounds shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Slovakian 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 Slovakian Hound live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Slovakia
- Type
- Scent hounds
- Internationally recognised
- 1963