Overview
The Cretan Hound, or Kritikos Lagonikos, has been hunting hare and rabbit on Crete for thousands of years. It sits between the sighthounds and the scenthounds, using speed in the open and a keen nose in scrub. It is slender and medium-sized with a short coat, large ears and a curled tail carried high.
In Britain it is almost unknown. The character reported by Greek owners is gentle and quiet with people, reserved with strangers, and relentless in pursuit of game. Treat it as a Podenco-type primitive hunter and plan the walk around a strong prey drive.
Exercise and walking needs
About ninety minutes a day, with at least one opportunity to run flat out in a fenced area. These dogs are built for rough, rocky ground and cope well with hills and heat.
The thin coat and lean body do not suit British winters. A coat in the cold and a brisk pace on wet days are sensible.
On the walk
- Prey: Hare, rabbit and squirrel will be hunted with speed and purpose. Keep it on a lead in open country and never rely on a shout to stop it.
- Recall: Can be taught in calm conditions but switches off in the presence of game. A long line gives freedom without the risk.
- Other dogs: Usually tolerant and not confrontational. Watch for it treating very small dogs as quarry at a distance.
- Agility: Jumps well and climbs rocks and walls. Check fences before trusting a field.
Tips for professional walkers
- Use a sighthound harness or wide martingale; the head is narrow and collars slip.
- Carry a coat on cold days and dry the dog off after wet walks.
- Check pads and legs after running on rough ground; the skin is thin and cuts easily.
What to ask the owner
- Has the dog ever hunted or caught game, and how does it react to cats and small dogs?
- Where is it currently allowed to run free, and is there a secure field you can use?
- How does it cope with the cold and does it wear a coat?