Overview
The Montenegrin Mountain Hound, formerly the Yugoslavian Mountain Hound, is a medium-sized scenthound from the mountains of Montenegro and the surrounding region. It is black with tan markings, sturdy and deep-chested, with a dense coat suited to cold forest and a loud, musical voice on the hunt. Very few live in Britain.
Balkan hounds are kept for hunting and have the temperament that goes with it: sociable with people and other dogs, calm at home, and completely absorbed by scent once outdoors. They are not difficult dogs, but they are not easy to recall.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour and a half a day across two walks suits an adult, with distance mattering more than speed. A long steady trot through woodland with a nose full of scent is the ideal. Under-exercised hounds become noisy and destructive.
Hardy in cold and wet thanks to the coat, less comfortable in heat. Adjust summer routes to shade.
On the walk
- Trailing: Once on a line the dog will follow it across anything, including roads. Lead on near traffic and long line in the open.
- Voice: Hounds bay when they find scent and when they are excited. Pick routes with space from houses.
- Other dogs: Pack-minded and generally relaxed with other dogs. A good group-walk candidate with the usual introductions.
- Pulling: Steady forward pressure rather than lunging. A harness and a few direction changes early in the walk keep the dog thinking about you.
Tips for professional walkers
- Carry strong-smelling treats to compete with the ground for attention.
- Use a long line in open country if the owner wants the dog to range.
- Check the ears after walks; hound ears trap mud and moisture.
- Choose rural woodland routes over busy parks for both the noise and the scent.
What to ask the owner
- Has the dog been worked, and what does it react to most strongly: deer, fox, rabbit?
- Does it have any recall off the lead, and where have you tried it?
- Is the dog vocal on walks, and is that a problem on your usual routes?