Hound Dogs

Scent and sight specialists with independent streaks—great for explorers

Hounds include scent trackers like the Beagle and scent-sensitive coonhounds, plus swift sighthounds like the Greyhound. They’re independent, often soft‑natured, and benefit from secure off‑leash spaces. In Canada, plan for weather‑appropriate gear, recall training, and regular scent or sprint games to satisfy instincts.

Beagle, Bloodhound, and Greyhound standing alert on a misty Canadian forest trail at sunrise, representing Hound dog breeds.
A photograph captures a Cirneco dell’Etna sitting alert on a forest trail, highlighting its sleek reddish coat and large upright ears.

The Cirneco dell’Etna is a slim, elegant primitive hunting hound from Sicily—light on its feet, affectionate with family, and keen-eyed for small game. With a short, low-odour coat and catlike cleanliness, Cirnechi (plural) are great for active apartments or houses. If you’re wondering “Are Cirneco dell’Etna good apartment dogs?”—yes, with daily exercise and enrichment. “Do Cirneco dell’Etna shed?”—lightly. “Are Cirnechi hypoallergenic?”—no, but they’re low-shedding. Expect a sensitive, biddable sighthound that thrives on kind training and secure off-leash options.

The Harrier is a cheerful, medium-sized pack scenthound—sturdy, social, and built for hours of trotting. Great for active families who enjoy long walks, trail time, and scent-based games.

The Borzoi is a graceful, aristocratic sighthound renowned for speed and a flowing, silky coat. Calm indoors, athletic outdoors—best with space and secure fencing.

Portuguese Podengo Pequeno with a reddish-brown and white coat sitting on a dirt trail in a forest, looking alert and curious with upright ears.

The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is a lively, clever, rabbit-hunting hound in a portable package. Famous for its pricked ears, keen nose, and joyful “let’s go!” attitude, the Pequeno comes in smooth and wire coats and thrives with active families. If you’re wondering, “Are Portuguese Podengo Pequenos good apartment dogs?”—yes, with daily exercise and enrichment. They’re affectionate, social, and fun, yet retain an independent, primitive-dog streak.

The Hamiltonstovare (Hamilton Hound) is a stylish Swedish scenthound—friendly, athletic, and built for all-day tracking. Ideal for active owners who love long hikes, nosework, and positive training.