Montenegrin Mountain Hound Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Breeders 

Are you considering getting a new furry friend to join your family? If you’re looking for a loyal and affectionate companion, the Montenegrin Mountain Hound breed might be the perfect match for you. These dogs are known for their hunting abilities and are great at tracking game in the mountains. However, they also make wonderful pets due to their friendly and gentle nature. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Montenegrin Mountain Hound breed and what you can expect when you bring one into your home.

Breed Category: Hound
Country of Origin: Montenegro
Average Size:55-62 cm
Average Weight:35-45 kg
Average Life Span: 10-12 years
Grooming Requirements: Low
Exercise Requirements:High

History and Origin

The Montenegrin Mountain Hound, also known as Crnogorski Planinski Gonic, is a breed of dog that originated in Montenegro, a small country in southeastern Europe. This breed is known for its exceptional hunting skills, particularly in mountainous terrain. The Montenegrin Mountain Hound is a relatively rare breed, with only a few hundred dogs registered worldwide. Despite its rarity, this breed has a rich history and a loyal following among hunters and dog enthusiasts.

The Montenegrin Mountain Hound is believed to have descended from ancient hunting dogs that were brought to the Balkans by the Illyrians, an ancient people who inhabited the region. These dogs were used for hunting wild game, such as deer, boar, and wolves, in the rugged terrain of the Balkan Mountains. Over time, the breed evolved to become a specialized hunting dog that was well-suited to the harsh conditions of the Montenegrin mountains.

The Montenegrin Mountain Hound was first recognized as a distinct breed in the early 20th century. In 1924, a breed standard was established, and the first breed club was formed in 1928. However, the breed faced significant challenges during the 20th century, including the devastation of World War II and the communist regime that followed. During this time, many Montenegrin Mountain Hounds were killed or lost, and the breed nearly went extinct.

In the 1980s, a group of dedicated breeders began working to revive the Montenegrin Mountain Hound. They searched for surviving dogs and worked to establish a breeding program that would preserve the breed’s unique characteristics. Today, the breed is still relatively rare, but it has a growing following among hunters and dog enthusiasts around the world.

The Montenegrin Mountain Hound is a medium-sized dog, typically weighing between 44 and 66 pounds. It has a short, dense coat that is usually black or dark brown with white markings. The breed is known for its exceptional sense of smell, which allows it to track game over long distances and in difficult terrain. Montenegrin Mountain Hounds are also known for their stamina and endurance, which make them well-suited to hunting in mountainous regions.

In addition to its hunting skills, the Montenegrin Mountain Hound

Size and Breed Category

The Montenegrin Mountain Hound is a medium-sized breed of dog that originated in Montenegro. They are classified as a hound breed and are known for their exceptional hunting skills. These dogs have a muscular build and a strong, athletic physique that allows them to navigate through rough terrain with ease. Their coat is short and dense, which provides them with protection from the elements while hunting in the mountains. The Montenegrin Mountain Hound is a highly intelligent breed that is known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners. They are also known for their independent nature, which can make them challenging to train. However, with proper training and socialization, these dogs can make excellent companions for active families.

The Montenegrin Mountain Hound is a breed that is well-suited for hunting in mountainous regions. They are known for their exceptional sense of smell and their ability to track game over long distances. These dogs are also highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of environments, including rural and urban settings. The Montenegrin Mountain Hound is a breed that requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. They are also known for their strong prey drive, which means that they may not be suitable for households with small pets. Overall, the Montenegrin Mountain Hound is a unique and fascinating breed that is well-suited for active families who enjoy spending time outdoors.

Fur Length and Colour

The fur of the Montenegrin Mountain Hound is short and dense, providing excellent protection against the harsh mountain climate. The fur is typically black or dark brown, with some dogs having white markings on their chest and feet. The coat is easy to maintain and requires minimal grooming, making it a practical choice for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. The fur also helps to camouflage the dog in its natural environment, allowing it to blend in with the rocky terrain and vegetation.

The Montenegrin Mountain Hound’s fur is an important characteristic of the breed, as it helps to protect the dog from the elements and aids in its hunting abilities. The fur is not only functional, but also adds to the dog’s overall appearance, giving it a sleek and athletic look. The colour of the fur can vary slightly between individuals, with some dogs having a more reddish-brown hue. However, the black and dark brown colouration is the most common and is a defining feature of the breed. Overall, the Montenegrin Mountain Hound’s fur is an important aspect of its physical makeup, contributing to its success as a hunting dog in the rugged mountain terrain.

Termperament and Trainability

The Montenegrin Mountain Hound is a breed that is known for its independent and strong-willed temperament. They are highly intelligent and have a natural instinct for hunting, which can make them difficult to train. However, with patience and consistency, they can be trained to follow commands and become obedient companions. It is important to establish a strong bond with this breed and provide them with plenty of mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Montenegrin Mountain Hounds are loyal and protective of their family, making them excellent guard dogs.

In terms of trainability, the Montenegrin Mountain Hound requires an experienced owner who can provide them with firm and consistent training. They have a strong prey drive and may be prone to chasing small animals, so early socialization is important. This breed is highly active and requires plenty of exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. They excel in activities such as tracking, hunting, and agility. Montenegrin Mountain Hounds are known for their endurance and can handle long hikes or runs. Overall, this breed requires a dedicated owner who can provide them with the proper training and exercise to ensure they are happy and well-behaved companions.

Known Health Conditions

The Montenegrin Mountain Hound is a breed of dog that is known to be generally healthy. However, like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions. One of the most common health issues that affect this breed is hip dysplasia. This is a condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to pain and discomfort for the dog. Montenegrin Mountain Hounds can also suffer from ear infections, which can be caused by a variety of factors such as allergies, parasites, or bacteria. It is important for owners to regularly clean their dog’s ears and seek veterinary treatment if they notice any signs of infection.

Another health condition that Montenegrin Mountain Hounds may be prone to is bloat, also known as gastric torsion. This is a serious condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood supply to the organs. It is more common in large breeds, but can also affect smaller dogs like the Montenegrin Mountain Hound. Other health issues that may affect this breed include eye problems such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, as well as skin allergies and thyroid disorders. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventative care can help to keep Montenegrin Mountain Hounds healthy and happy.

Openness to Strangers

Montenegrin Mountain Hounds are known for their friendly and welcoming nature towards strangers. They are a breed that is always eager to meet new people and make new friends. This trait makes them excellent companions for those who enjoy socializing and meeting new people. They are also very loyal to their owners and will often follow them around wherever they go. This makes them great pets for families who enjoy spending time outdoors and exploring new places. Montenegrin Mountain Hounds are also very intelligent and can be trained to perform a variety of tasks, including hunting and tracking.

Despite their friendly nature, Montenegrin Mountain Hounds can be quite protective of their owners and their territory. They are known to be very alert and will bark at any strangers who approach their home or their family. This makes them excellent watchdogs and guard dogs. However, they are not aggressive towards strangers and will usually calm down once they realize that there is no threat. Montenegrin Mountain Hounds are also very active and require plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy going for long walks and hikes, and they are also great at playing games like fetch and tug-of-war. Overall, Montenegrin Mountain Hounds are a friendly and loyal breed that make great pets for families who enjoy spending time outdoors.

Playfulness Level

The Montenegrin Mountain Hound is a highly energetic and playful breed of dog. They are known for their love of play and their ability to keep their owners entertained for hours on end. These dogs are always on the go, and they love nothing more than to run, jump, and play with their owners. Whether it’s a game of fetch or a run through the park, the Montenegrin Mountain Hound is always up for a good time.

Despite their high energy levels, the Montenegrin Mountain Hound is also a very intelligent breed of dog. They are quick learners and are always eager to please their owners. This makes them an excellent choice for families with children, as they are always willing to play and interact with their human companions. Whether you’re looking for a loyal and playful companion or a dog that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the Montenegrin Mountain Hound is an excellent choice.

Suitability as a Pet for Children

Montenegrin Mountain Hounds are a highly active and energetic breed, making them a great choice for families with children who enjoy outdoor activities. With their strong hunting instincts, they require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. They are also known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners, making them a great companion for children who are looking for a loyal and loving pet. However, due to their high energy levels, they may not be suitable for families who are unable to provide them with the exercise and attention they require.

Exercise Needs

Montenegrin Mountain Hounds are highly active dogs that require a significant amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. As a breed that was originally developed for hunting, these dogs have a natural instinct to run and explore their surroundings. Owners should aim to provide at least 60-90 minutes of exercise per day, which can include activities such as hiking, running, or playing fetch. It is important to note that these dogs have a high prey drive and should always be kept on a leash or in a secure area to prevent them from chasing after small animals. Additionally, mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for this breed, and owners should provide plenty of opportunities for training and interactive play.

Due to their high energy levels, Montenegrin Mountain Hounds may not be suitable for apartment living or for owners who are unable to provide adequate exercise. These dogs thrive in homes with large yards or access to open spaces where they can run and play freely. It is also important to note that these dogs have a thick, double coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Owners should brush their dog’s coat at least once a week and consider professional grooming every few months. With proper exercise and care, Montenegrin Mountain Hounds make loyal and affectionate companions for active families.

Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family

Montenegrin Mountain Hounds have a reputation for being friendly towards other pets. They are known to be sociable and enjoy the company of other animals. However, as with any breed, it is important to introduce them to other pets slowly and carefully to ensure a positive relationship. It is also important to supervise interactions between pets to prevent any potential conflicts. Overall, Montenegrin Mountain Hounds have the potential to get along well with other pets if introduced properly.

Housing Requirements

Montenegrin Mountain Hounds are a breed that requires a lot of space to live in. They are active dogs that need plenty of exercise, so a large garden or access to open countryside is essential. They are also known for their love of digging, so it’s important to have a secure fence that they can’t dig under. In terms of indoor space, they don’t require a huge amount, but they do need a comfortable bed to sleep in and a quiet place to retreat to when they want some peace and quiet. It’s also important to note that they are a breed that thrives on human interaction, so they should not be left alone for long periods of time.

Montenegrin Mountain Hounds have a thick, double coat that provides insulation in cold weather, so they are well-suited to living in cooler climates. However, they can overheat in hot weather, so it’s important to provide them with plenty of shade and access to cool water during the summer months. They are also prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and ear infections, so regular vet check-ups are important to ensure they stay healthy. Overall, Montenegrin Mountain Hounds are a breed that requires a lot of attention and care, but they make loyal and loving companions for those who are willing to put in the effort.

Summary

The Montenegrin Mountain Hound is a pet that requires an active and experienced owner. They are a high-energy breed that needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Due to their strong hunting instincts, they may not be suitable for households with small pets. However, with proper training and socialization, they can make loyal and affectionate companions for families who enjoy outdoor activities.

Montenegrin Mountain Hound Dog FAQS