Overview
The Estonian Hound was developed in the mid twentieth century when Soviet regulations required hunting dogs to be below a certain height, so Estonian breeders crossed local hounds with Beagles, Swiss Laufhunds and others to produce a smaller, hardy hare and fox hound. It became the country's national dog and is only just beginning to appear outside the Baltic states.
In manner it sits close to a Beagle: cheerful, sociable, a little stubborn and ruled by its nose. It is a sturdy, even-tempered dog that lives well in a family and gets on with most other dogs.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour and a half a day of walking with plenty of sniffing opportunity suits most adults. Speed matters less to this breed than scent; a slow woodland loop beats a quick circuit of the park.
Where it is safe, a long line lets the dog track without disappearing. If the owner has a secure field, a short free run there is the highlight of the dog's week.
On the walk
- Recall: Patchy. The nose takes priority over you, and a hare scent can carry the dog a long way. Keep a line on in open ground.
- Voice: Hounds bay when they find scent and when they are excited. Plan for noise and choose quieter routes where you can.
- Pulling: Moderate and steady rather than violent. A harness makes a trailing dog easier to manage.
- Other dogs: Good company. They enjoy a group walk and rarely squabble with other dogs.
Tips for professional walkers
- Scatter treats in long grass at the start of the walk to give the nose a job early on.
- Check ears after wet walks; they are long enough to trap moisture.
- Keep an eye on food scavenging; hounds eat first and ask later.
What to ask the owner
- Does the dog bay or howl on walks, and does the owner mind?
- Has it ever been let off, and does it have any recall away from distractions?
- Any food allergies or a tendency to scavenge that you should guard against?