Overview
The Bulgarian Hound is a working scenthound from Bulgaria, one of a family of Balkan hunting dogs used for hare, fox and wild boar in hilly, wooded country. Formal documentation of the breed is thin, it is rare even at home, and you are very unlikely to meet one in Britain unless an owner has brought it over.
The honest approach is to treat it as what it is: a medium, hardy scenthound of the Balkan type. That means a strong nose, a loud voice, stamina for a full day, tolerance of other dogs from pack life, and little interest in recall when a trail is fresh. Everything beyond that should come from the owner.
Exercise and walking needs
Give an adult around an hour and a half a day, with as much of it as possible on varied, scent-rich ground. This is a hound bred to work for hours, and short walks on pavement leave it unsatisfied.
Tracking games on a long line give the nose a legitimate job. A hidden treat trail or a scented toy works well and tires the dog mentally.
On the walk
- Recall: Treat as absent on scent. Only let the dog off in a properly fenced space, and start with a long line even there.
- Voice: Expect baying on a trail and barking at excitement. Plan routes where that will not upset neighbours.
- Pulling: Steady and strong when the nose is down. A harness and a fixed lead are the sensible choice.
- Wildlife: Deer, rabbits and foxes are the quarry this dog was bred for. Keep the lead on anywhere they appear.
Tips for professional walkers
- Let the dog sniff for long stretches; it is the point of the walk for a scenthound.
- Carry very smelly treats to stand a chance against a fresh trail.
- Check the ears and pads after rough walks and dry the ears after rain.
- Walk alone or with calm, tolerant dogs rather than a lively group.
What to ask the owner
- Where did the dog come from, and has it ever been worked as a hunting hound?
- How does it react to livestock, deer and cats?
- Is it used to being walked on its own, or has it always been with other hounds?