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Istrian Wire-haired Scenthound (Istarski Ostrodlaki Gonic)
Medium Breed
The Istrian Wire-haired Scent hound is strong, solidly built and has great power. The Istrian Wire-haired Scent hound is a very enthusiastic hunter; he is alert and very active and has great stamina.
Breed standards
Country of origin
Croatia
Weight
Approximately 16-24kg/35-53lbs (standards may vary)
Height
Males ideal 52cm/20 1/2 inches;
Females ideal 50cm/19 3/4 inches (standards may vary)
Coat
Medium-length coat
Markings
Snow-white. Ears always orange or orange speckled and there is often a similar coloured star on the forehead. Orange spots can be present all over the body and usually on the root of the tail. A third colour is unacceptable.
Lifespan
Average, 12 years
Although lively in the field, the Istrian Wire-haired Scent hound has a fairly even temperament and is gentle, docile and calm in the home.
Temperament
The Istrian Wire-haired Scent hound is lively and enthusiastic on the hunt, but is otherwise calm and docile. Friendly and affectionate and totally attached to his owner, he makes a great companion. A skilled scent hound with a powerful voice, he can work as a leash hound tracking wounded game. Built to cope with the vast open terrain in Istria, he hunts mainly hare and fox. Consistent training and positive socialisation are recommended from an early age.
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PoorChildrenGood
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VeryCombativenessNot very
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VeryDominanceNot very
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Not veryFriendlinessGood
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Not veryIndependenceVery
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LoudNoiseQuiet
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Not veryTrainabilityVery
Good to know
The Istrian Wire-haired Scent hound is a magnificent, strongly built hound, elegant in appearance with a beautiful bright white coat. An excellent hunting dog, the Istrian Wire-haired Scent hound was originally bred for hunting hare and fox.
- An excellent hunter
- Adapts well to the family home
- No trimming or stripping required
- Little grooming needed
- Does well in most climates
- Not a dog recommended for novice owners
- Requires sufficient daily exercise
- Requires daily physical activity and mental stimulation