Cretan Tracer
Description
The Cretan Tracer is a lean, athletic hound that hails from the rugged island of Crete. This breed has been around for thousands of years, shaped by the demands of local hunters who needed a dog that could run fast and follow scent trails with precision. It stands out with a smooth, short coat that comes in colors like white, sand, fawn, grey, black, brindle, or combinations of these. The Cretan Tracer moves with agility and speed, built for endurance over rocky terrain. These dogs tend to be reserved around strangers but show a gentle side with their families. They think independently, which means they don’t always follow orders right away. Their hunting background means they need plenty of exercise and mental challenges to stay content. They bark often, alerting their people to anything unusual. This breed isn’t for someone looking for a couch companion; it needs a job or purpose to thrive.
Grooming
The Cretan Tracer’s short, smooth coat is easy to maintain but still needs regular care to look its best. Brush once a week using a rubber curry or bristle brush to remove loose hair and keep the coat shiny. Bathing every 4 to 8 weeks is enough—avoid over-bathing to protect the skin’s natural oils. Nails should be trimmed every 2 to 4 weeks to prevent cracking or overgrowth. Check ears monthly for dirt or wax buildup, especially since this breed spends time outdoors. - Weekly brushing with rubber curry or bristle brush - Bath every 4 to 8 weeks - Nail trims every 2 to 4 weeks - Monthly ear checks Pro tip: Spot clean stains on lighter coats with a damp cloth between baths to keep white or sand-colored fur bright without over-washing.
Learn the Smooth routine:
→ Complete Smooth Grooming Guide
Walking
The Cretan Tracer needs about 85 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions. This breed was bred to cover rough ground and follow scents, so walks should include varied terrain and opportunities to sniff. One session can be a brisk 40-minute hike on uneven trails, while the other might be a 45-minute walk around the neighborhood with time to explore and track scents. This mix keeps the dog physically and mentally engaged. Example routine: Morning: 40-minute hike over hills or rocky paths Evening: 45-minute neighborhood walk with scent stops and light jogging Keep a firm grip on the leash; this hound’s hunting instincts can lead it to bolt after interesting smells.
Boarding
When boarding a Cretan Tracer, provide a crate sized between 42 and 48 inches to allow enough room for stretching and turning comfortably. These dogs enjoy active play sessions, so plan for two blocks of exercise each day that include scent or brain games to keep their minds sharp. Staff should introduce themselves slowly and stick to a predictable routine to help the dog feel secure. The Cretan Tracer’s independent streak means it might take time to warm up to new people, but consistent, calm handling helps. This breed thrives on structure and activity, so downtime in the crate should be balanced with plenty of enrichment. Toys that challenge their tracking skills or puzzle feeders work well. Staff should watch for signs of boredom or restlessness and respond with extra play or mental tasks to keep the dog happy and relaxed.