Hungarian Greyhound
Description
The Hungarian Greyhound, or Magyar Agar, is a sleek, muscular sighthound with a history stretching back over a thousand years in Hungary. Bred for speed and stamina, it was prized by nobility for hunting hares, foxes, and deer across varied terrain. This breed carries a strong prey drive and can reach remarkable speeds, making it one of the fastest dogs globally. Its slim frame and graceful stride give it an elegant, athletic appearance. Hungarian Greyhounds are independent thinkers who bond closely with their families but may be wary of strangers and small children. They’re not suited for homes with small pets due to their instinct to chase. Early socialization and firm, consistent training help manage their aloofness and prey instincts. Despite their hunting roots, they tend to be quiet dogs with low barking tendencies.
Grooming
The Hungarian Greyhound sports a short, smooth, and dense coat that sheds lightly to moderately throughout the year. Weekly brushing with a rubber curry or bristle brush keeps the coat healthy and removes loose hair efficiently. Bathing every 4 to 8 weeks is sufficient; avoid frequent baths to protect natural oils. Nail trimming every 2 to 4 weeks prevents discomfort, while monthly ear checks help avoid buildup. Coat colors vary widely, including all except blue, plus blue and white, brown, wolfgray, black and tan, or tri-color spotting patterns. No special stain care is needed due to the short coat and color variety. - Brush weekly with rubber curry or bristle brush - Bathe every 4–8 weeks - Trim nails every 2–4 weeks - Clean ears monthly - Pro tidy as needed Pro tip: Use a damp cloth to quickly freshen the coat between baths without over-washing.
Learn the Smooth routine:
→ Complete Smooth Grooming Guide
Walking
Hungarian Greyhounds require about 80 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to suit their moderate stamina and need for mental engagement. Morning walks can be brisk and focused on leash training or scent exploration, while evening outings might include off-leash running in secure areas to satisfy their coursing instincts. A typical routine might start with a 40-minute walk around the neighborhood, incorporating some recall and loose-leash practice. Later, a 40-minute session at a fenced dog park allows for sprinting and interactive play, which helps burn off energy and keeps the dog mentally sharp. Consistent walking schedules help maintain their lean physique and prevent boredom-driven behaviors. Avoid overly crowded or noisy environments to reduce stress and distractions.
Boarding
When boarding a Hungarian Greyhound, provide a crate sized between 42 and 48 inches to accommodate their slender, muscular build comfortably. They thrive with two active play blocks daily, combining physical exercise with scent or brain games to engage their hunting instincts and intelligence. Avoid small-animal toys that might trigger their chase drive. Secure fencing is essential to prevent escapes during off-leash time. Staff should introduce themselves slowly and maintain a predictable routine to help the dog feel safe and reduce anxiety. Enrichment activities like puzzle feeders or scent trails keep them occupied and calm. Their low barking level makes them suitable for quieter boarding environments, but their independent nature means they may take time to warm up to new caretakers.