Russian Hound
Description
The Russian Hound, or Russkaja Gončaja, is a scent hound with a rich heritage rooted in Russia's hunting traditions. Developed from a mix of Central Asian and local dogs, this breed was refined to endure tough terrain and harsh weather while tracking game over long distances. Their medium-sized, muscular build supports stamina and agility, making them reliable partners for hunting hares, foxes, boar, and deer. Known for their calm demeanor and steady temperament, Russian Hounds can adapt well to family life but retain a strong prey drive. They tend to be reserved around strangers but show loyalty and affection to their household. Their distinctive, melodic bark serves as an alert during hunts, reflecting their attentive nature. Weighing between 50 and 75 pounds, they carry a dense, straight double coat that protects them in cold climates.
Grooming
The Russian Hound's dense, straight double coat requires consistent care to stay healthy and clean. Expect heavy shedding during spring and fall when the undercoat 'blows' and loose hair comes off in large amounts. Brush your dog twice a week regularly, increasing to daily sessions during these shedding seasons to manage loose fur and prevent matting. Use an undercoat rake on dense areas to reach deeper layers and remove dead hair effectively. Bathing every 6 to 8 weeks is sufficient, but ensure the coat is thoroughly dried afterward to avoid skin issues. Avoid shaving the coat, as it disrupts the natural insulation and protection. - Brush 2× weekly; daily in heavy sheds - Use undercoat rake on thick spots - Bathe every 6–8 weeks; dry completely - Monitor for dirt accumulation on black & tan coats Pro tip: A professional de-shedding treatment every 6 to 8 weeks helps keep the coat manageable and reduces indoor hair buildup.
Learn the Dense routine:
→ Complete Dense Grooming Guide
Walking
Russian Hounds need about 80 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to keep them engaged and balanced. Morning walks can focus on brisk exercise to burn off energy, while evening strolls offer a calmer pace with opportunities for scent exploration. This breed enjoys tracking scents, so incorporating varied routes or allowing sniff breaks will satisfy their natural instincts and keep walks interesting. Example routine: - Morning: 40 minutes brisk walk with scent breaks - Evening: 40 minutes relaxed stroll in quiet area Walks should challenge their nose and body without overwhelming them, supporting mental and physical well-being.
Boarding
When boarding a Russian Hound, provide a crate sized between 42 and 48 inches to accommodate their medium-large frame comfortably. Their playstyle is active but not hyper, so plan two distinct play sessions daily that include scent or brain games to engage their tracking instincts. Avoid small-animal toys to prevent accidental ingestion or frustration, and ensure fencing is secure to contain their strong prey drive. Staff should introduce themselves slowly and maintain a predictable routine to help the dog feel secure in a new environment. Consistency and mental enrichment are key to reducing stress and encouraging positive behavior during their stay.