Transylvanian Hound
The Transylvanian Hound is one of the oldest and rarest hound breeds of Central Europe — an ancient Carpathian scent hound that was used by Hungarian and Transylvanian noblemen for centuries to hunt bear, lynx, bison, and wild boar in the forests of the Carpathian Mountains.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Origin
Romania
Lifespan
10–14 years
Weight
20–35 kg (44–77 lbs)
Height
45–65 cm (18–26 in)
Exercise
30 to 45 min/day
Diet
Omnivore — high-quality food for an active large hunting hound.
Taxonomic Hierarchy
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
The Story
The Transylvanian Hound is one of the oldest and rarest hound breeds of Central Europe — an ancient Carpathian scent hound that was used by Hungarian and Transylvanian noblemen for centuries to hunt bear, lynx, bison, and wild boar in the forests of the Carpathian Mountains. It existed historically in two sizes: a taller variety for large game and a shorter variety for fox. Only the taller variety survives today. The breed nearly went extinct under Communist rule in Romania, was preserved in Hungary by dedicated breeders, and was re-established in Romania after 1989.
Also Known As
Quick Facts
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Physical Profile
Source: wikimedia
A large, well-muscled, athletic scent hound in the classic tricolour hound pattern — black with tan eyebrows, tan muzzle markings, and white chest and feet. Dense, short coat. Pendant ears. Confident, courageous stance.
Grooming
Low
Shedding
Moderate
Brushing
1x-Weekly
Bathing
Every-6-8-Weeks
Coat Colors
Recognized By
Source: wikimedia
Temperament & Personality
Courageous, loyal, and determined — a working hunting hound with genuine courage against large game. Calm and gentle at home. Strong hunting drive requires secure fencing.
Personality Scores
Adaptability
3/5Attention Need
2/5Friendliness
3/5Playfulness
3/5Protectiveness
2/5Living Profile
Ideal Space
House-Large-Garden
Daily Exercise
30 to 45 min/day
Ideal Weather
-10°C to 25°C
Cognitive Benchmarks
Adaptability
30%
Attention
20%
Playfulness
30%
Communication Style
Stress Signals
baying, stubbornness, escape attempts
Care & Wellness
Professional Care Protocol
- •2+ hours vigorous exercise daily. Very low grooming. Secure fencing essential.
Nutrition Notes
Transylvanian hound. Two sizes. Very healthy primitive breed.
Vaccination Schedule
Vaccination Schedule
Senior Care
Very few health issues. Hungarian/Romanian Transylvanian hound. Nearly extinct — rebuilt. Two sizes (tall and short). 10-14 years.
Wellbeing Activities
Nutrition & Sustenance
Daily Calories (Adult)
1200 kcal
Daily Calories (Young)
900 kcal
Recommended Foods
Foods to Avoid
Health Overview
Generally healthy due to working selection. Hip dysplasia. Ear infections. Robust breed.
Common Conditions
Price Estimates
Pricing Guide
Average estimates as of 2025
Nearly extinct — rebuilt. India: unavailable.
Purchase Price
$1,200 to $2,500
Adoption Fee
$100 to $400
Data from 2025
Fun Facts
The Transylvanian Hound was used by the medieval Hungarian kings for royal hunts — it is one of the few hunting breeds that was specifically maintained by royal decree, with the King of Hungary reserving the right to the finest Transylvanian Hounds for royal hunting parties.
