Hound dogs: the perfect mix of brains, brawn, and heart. They’re built for adventure, yet gentle enough to charm your family. But which ones stand out from the pack? We’ve done the homework to bring you 30 of the best breeds, each with something special to offer. Keep reading to find your next four-legged soulmate.
#30. Ibizan Hound
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Spain |
| Size | Medium (22-27 inches) |
| Weight | 45-50 pounds |
| Coat | Smooth or Wire-haired |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
The Ibizan Hound is an agile and elegant breed with roots in ancient Egypt. They’re affectionate, good with kids, and excel at athletic activities. Their sleek build and expressive eyes make them stand out in any crowd.
#29. Plott Hound
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | United States |
| Size | Medium (20-25 inches) |
| Weight | 40-60 pounds |
| Coat | Short and Smooth |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
The Plott Hound, North Carolina’s state dog, is prized for its exceptional hunting skills and fearless nature. They’re intelligent, loyal, and love outdoor adventures. However, their high energy requires plenty of exercise and stimulation.
#28. Scottish Deerhound
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Scotland |
| Size | Large (28-32 inches) |
| Weight | 75-110 pounds |
| Coat | Wiry and Shaggy |
| Lifespan | 8-11 years |
Scottish Deerhounds are gentle giants with a history as royal hunting companions. Despite their large size, they’re calm and well-mannered, making them great indoor pets for spacious homes. They thrive on companionship and short bursts of activity.
#27. Basset Hound
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | France |
| Size | Medium (14 inches) |
| Weight | 40-65 pounds |
| Coat | Short and Smooth |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
Known for their droopy ears and soulful eyes, Basset Hounds are charming family pets. They’re excellent trackers, thanks to their incredible sense of smell. Despite their laid-back demeanor, they enjoy leisurely walks and outdoor play.
#26. Afghan Hound
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Afghanistan |
| Size | Large (25-29 inches) |
| Weight | 50-60 pounds |
| Coat | Long and Silky |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
The Afghan Hound is a picture of elegance with its flowing coat and aloof personality. Beneath their regal exterior lies a playful and loving pet. They’re independent thinkers, requiring consistent training and ample exercise.
#25. Beagle
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | United Kingdom |
| Size | Small (13-15 inches) |
| Weight | 20-30 pounds |
| Coat | Short and Smooth |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
Beagles are cheerful and curious, making them one of the most popular hound breeds. Their extraordinary sense of smell and tracking abilities are unmatched. Beagles are also great with children and adapt well to various living environments, though they do best with plenty of exercise.
#24. Bluetick Coonhound
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | United States |
| Size | Medium (21-27 inches) |
| Weight | 45-80 pounds |
| Coat | Short and Dense |
| Lifespan | 11-12 years |
Bluetick Coonhounds are striking with their speckled blue coats and droopy ears. These dogs are excellent hunters, particularly skilled at tracking raccoons. They’re affectionate and loyal but need a lot of physical activity and mental stimulation to stay happy.
#23. Rhodesian Ridgeback
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Zimbabwe |
| Size | Large (24-27 inches) |
| Weight | 70-85 pounds |
| Coat | Short and Sleek |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
Originally bred to hunt lions, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a courageous and powerful dog. Despite their hunting origins, they’re gentle and protective of their families. They’re independent thinkers and require consistent training from an early age.
#22. Whippet
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | England |
| Size | Medium (18-22 inches) |
| Weight | 25-40 pounds |
| Coat | Short and Smooth |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
Whippets are speedy and graceful, often described as “little greyhounds.” They’re affectionate and enjoy lounging around the house as much as they love sprinting in open spaces. Whippets are low-maintenance and make excellent companions for families and individuals alike.
#21. American Foxhound
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | United States |
| Size | Medium (21-25 inches) |
| Weight | 65-75 pounds |
| Coat | Short and Smooth |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
Bred for speed and stamina, American Foxhounds are hardworking and friendly. These dogs thrive in active households and enjoy long walks or runs. Their melodious bay is a signature trait, though it’s worth noting they can be vocal.
#20. Black and Tan Coonhound
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | United States |
| Size | Large (23-27 inches) |
| Weight | 65-110 pounds |
| Coat | Short and Dense |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
Black and Tan Coonhounds are hardworking and reliable hunting dogs. Known for their keen noses and determination, they excel at tracking game over rugged terrain. They’re also loving and easygoing family pets, provided they get plenty of exercise.
#19. Pharaoh Hound
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Malta |
| Size | Medium (21-25 inches) |
| Weight | 45-55 pounds |
| Coat | Short and Glossy |
| Lifespan | 11-14 years |
Pharaoh Hounds are sleek and elegant, with a unique trait of blushing when excited. They’re intelligent and enjoy mental challenges, making them great at agility and obedience training. Friendly and affectionate, they’re perfect companions for active families.
#18. Saluki
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Middle East |
| Size | Large (23-28 inches) |
| Weight | 40-65 pounds |
| Coat | Smooth or Feathered |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
The Saluki, known as the “royal dog of Egypt,” combines grace with athleticism. Their slender build and silky coat give them a striking appearance. While independent, they form deep bonds with their families and require gentle training.
#17. Otterhound
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | United Kingdom |
| Size | Large (24-27 inches) |
| Weight | 80-115 pounds |
| Coat | Rough and Water-Resistant |
| Lifespan | 10-13 years |
With webbed feet and a love for swimming, Otterhounds are natural water dogs. They have an outgoing and playful personality, thriving in active households. This rare breed is both a skilled hunter and a loving family companion.
#16. Bloodhound
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Belgium |
| Size | Large (23-27 inches) |
| Weight | 80-110 pounds |
| Coat | Short and Loose |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
Bloodhounds are legendary for their scent-tracking abilities, often used in search and rescue missions. These gentle giants are affectionate and patient, making them wonderful companions. Their droopy ears and wrinkled faces only add to their charm.
#15. Harrier
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | United Kingdom |
| Size | Medium (19-21 inches) |
| Weight | 45-60 pounds |
| Coat | Short and Dense |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
Harriers are cheerful and hardworking dogs, known for their stamina and energy. They excel in hunting packs but also adapt well to family life with proper exercise. Harriers are social and thrive in active households.
#14. Greyhound
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Middle East |
| Size | Large (27-30 inches) |
| Weight | 60-70 pounds |
| Coat | Short and Sleek |
| Lifespan | 10-14 years |
Greyhounds are synonymous with speed, often reaching speeds of up to 40 mph. Despite their athleticism, they’re calm and gentle pets, content with lounging around the house. Their friendly and adaptable nature makes them excellent companions.
#13. Basenji
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Central Africa |
| Size | Small (16-17 inches) |
| Weight | 22-24 pounds |
| Coat | Short and Fine |
| Lifespan | 13-14 years |
Known as the “barkless dog,” Basenjis communicate with unique yodel-like sounds. They’re intelligent and independent, requiring patient training. These playful and curious dogs bond closely with their families, making them delightful companions.
#12. Norwegian Elkhound
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Norway |
| Size | Medium (19-21 inches) |
| Weight | 48-55 pounds |
| Coat | Dense and Weatherproof |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
Norwegian Elkhounds are fearless and loyal, originally bred to hunt large game like moose. They’re protective of their families and thrive on companionship. With their thick coats and high energy, they’re well-suited for outdoor adventures.
#11. Treeing Walker Coonhound
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | United States |
| Size | Medium (20-27 inches) |
| Weight | 50-70 pounds |
| Coat | Short and Smooth |
| Lifespan | 12-13 years |
Treeing Walker Coonhounds are skilled hunters with a strong drive to chase and tree game. They’re intelligent, friendly, and eager to please, making them great companions. These dogs love active play and need regular exercise to stay happy.
#10. Borzoi
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Russia |
| Size | Large (26-28 inches) |
| Weight | 60-100 pounds |
| Coat | Long and Silky |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
Borzoi, also known as Russian Wolfhounds, are elegant and graceful dogs with a calm demeanor. They’re affectionate with their families but have a strong prey drive, requiring secure spaces to roam. Their luxurious coats need regular grooming.
#9. Irish Wolfhound
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Ireland |
| Size | Giant (32-34 inches) |
| Weight | 105-120 pounds |
| Coat | Rough and Hard |
| Lifespan | 6-8 years |
Irish Wolfhounds are gentle giants with a history of hunting wolves. Despite their massive size, they’re friendly and patient, making them excellent family pets. They require space to move around but are generally calm indoors.
#8. Redbone Coonhound
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | United States |
| Size | Medium (21-27 inches) |
| Weight | 45-70 pounds |
| Coat | Short and Smooth |
| Lifespan | 11-12 years |
The Redbone Coonhound is a striking breed with its sleek red coat. Known for their determination in the hunt, they’re equally affectionate and playful at home. These dogs need plenty of exercise and love outdoor activities.
#7. Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen (PBGV)
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | France |
| Size | Small (13-15 inches) |
| Weight | 25-40 pounds |
| Coat | Rough and Medium |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
The PBGV is a lively and cheerful hound with a shaggy coat. They were bred for hunting small game and are full of energy. Their playful and social nature makes them wonderful companions for families who can match their activity level.
#6. Dachshund
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Size | 8-9 inches (standard); 5-6 inches (miniature) |
| Weight | 16-32 pounds (standard); 11 pounds or less (miniature) |
| Coat | Smooth, Long, or Wire-haired |
| Lifespan | 12-16 years |
Dachshunds, affectionately known as “wiener dogs,” are playful and spirited. Originally bred to hunt badgers, they’re courageous and tenacious. They form strong bonds with their families, making them devoted companions.
#5. Portuguese Podengo
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Portugal |
| Size | Small to Medium (8-28 inches) |
| Weight | 9-44 pounds |
| Coat | Smooth or Wire-haired |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
The Portuguese Podengo is a versatile and energetic breed, skilled in hunting and agility. They come in three sizes (Small, Medium, Large), each with distinct qualities. Podengos are intelligent and loyal, forming strong bonds with their owners.
#4. Bavarian Mountain Hound
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Size | Medium (17-20 inches) |
| Weight | 40-55 pounds |
| Coat | Short and Dense |
| Lifespan | 10-14 years |
Bavarian Mountain Hounds are calm and loyal dogs, originally bred to track wounded game. They’re well-suited for active families and love outdoor activities. These dogs are intelligent and devoted but need experienced handlers who can meet their physical and mental exercise needs.
#3. Cirneco dell’Etna
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Sicily |
| Size | Small to Medium (16-20 inches) |
| Weight | 17-26 pounds |
| Coat | Short and Sleek |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
The Cirneco dell’Etna is a rare and ancient breed, named after Sicily’s Mount Etna. These agile dogs were bred for hunting small game in rocky terrains. They’re loyal, intelligent, and thrive in active homes with plenty of mental stimulation.
#2. Azawakh
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | West Africa |
| Size | Medium to Large (23-29 inches) |
| Weight | 35-55 pounds |
| Coat | Short and Fine |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
The Azawakh is a sighthound with an elegant and slender build. Native to the Sahel region, these dogs were traditionally used by nomadic tribes for hunting and guarding. They’re affectionate and deeply loyal to their families, but they do require gentle training.
#1. Sloughi
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | North Africa |
| Size | Medium to Large (24-29 inches) |
| Weight | 45-65 pounds |
| Coat | Short and Smooth |
| Lifespan | 10-14 years |
The Sloughi, often called the “Arabian Greyhound,” is a graceful and athletic breed. With roots in the deserts of North Africa, they were prized for their hunting abilities. Calm and affectionate at home, they form strong bonds with their owners and are known for their quiet nature.
Wrapping Up
This concludes our list of the top 30 hound breeds. Each breed has unique traits, making them well-suited to a variety of lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for a hunting partner, an active companion, or a relaxed family pet, there’s a hound for everyone!