Hound of the seven districts e Hungarian hound: these are the other two names by which the Transylvanian hound, a hunting dog of Magyar origin but which is universally known with its approach to the region made famous by Count Dracula. The use in hunting dates back to many centuries ago and still today the animal stands out as one of the best breeds as regards the hounds in general and the dogs for blood trail.
There are many i strengths that distinguish it, so much so that many hunters just can't do without it. The standard heights are basically two: the minor variety of these dogs goes from 45 to 50 centimeters at the withers, while the greater variety from 55 to 65 centimeters.
History
The breed has very ancient origins and to get the first testimonials we have to go in Hungary. The nation, the nature of the terrain and the climate have influenced the history of this hound.
The first testimonies of the breed are attested in Middle Ages. In this period theErdélyi Kopó, as it was commonly called in the Eastern area was the hunting dog favorite among the nobles.
If at first he had wide diffusion subsequently things changed. The development of agriculture and forestry have pushed to abandon the practice of hunting in favor of cultivation.
I Carpathians they became their new home, but the inaccessible forests, mountains and land led to the creation of two varieties of the breed. The big and the small hound of the Transylvania, which despite different characteristics were always bred together.
Il big hound due to its size it was used for hunting big game, the most sought-after prey were initially the bufali, later focused on hunting forbear, boar and lynx, typical of the area.
Il little hound, on the other hand, it was mainly used for hunting small game like fox e hare, which were found in the woodlands, was later used for hunting the chamois in rocky regions.
At the beginning of twentieth century, the Transylvanian hound crossed a difficult period. Its presence on the territory was limited, which at one point almost came to extinction.
Historical events and social upheavals have had a fundamental weight in the life of this breed.
Following the conquest by the Romanians of Transylvania, the population decided to give a clear sign of supremacy and underline the new presence in the territory exterminate the hound.
Fortunately, some specimens managed to escape and find shelter in Hungary. Precisely here due to the weight that the breed had had in the noble context, the Kopò found refuge. Thanks to some experts who decided to breed them, the breed managed to survive and proliferate, on the territory.
Unfortunately the Industrial Revolution and the development of the agricultural industry caused a new one setback in the proliferation of hounds. The breed was considered harmful for the fields, so much so that the hunting areas were transformed into new industries, so they tried again to eliminate the kopó until 1968, when it was published FCI standard, which secured the breed from future repercussions.
General Appearance
Physically, the Transylvanian Hound does not go unnoticed. There head shape and how it stands out from the rest of the body, the proportions and arts characterized by one strong and muscular structure these are all hallmarks of the hounds originating from Central Europe. Following the extinction of the small hound, it was decided to breed only large ones that have a medium-sized build.
Il stable and durable body, is designed to withstand long-distance hunting trips. The athletic taxman andsturdy skeleton, even if not coarse and graceful, it allows it to move easily on the rough terrain of Eastern Europe.
Character
Despite having developed in difficult and hostile areas, the dog has a completely different character. The hound is extremely loyal and friendly not only with the people around him, but also with other dogs. Ideal within a numerous family in which there are children, develops towards the master and also the other members of the family a sense of protection. He hardly detaches himself from his point of reference, also because he loves being in company.
It equipped with a sense of direction developed, manages to guide the hunter in any environment without ever losing direction. Extremely intelligent, can be trained with extreme simplicity, and has no problem responding to the commands given to him by the master.
Distrustful of strangers, he is capable of give your all for the people he grows fond of, developing a sense of protection who shows all his courage.
Widely used in hunting trips since its origins, the hound is able to carry on a hunting trip independent of its master, moreover, it manages to cover long distances without showing signs of fatigue. It is perfect for following the trail of big game.
When it comes time to reach the prey, he faces it with confidence and precision without letting it escape, moreover, he is able to carry out a hunting trip alone or in pairs.
Farms
In Italy it is not very widespread, in fact, there is only one breeding recognized by the ENCI and it is located in the province of Cosenza. While very skilled and perfect for hunting large and small prey, it also has a few defects.
Among the most widespread, there are above all those of physical character. Particular attention should be paid to badly worn ears, a depigmented nose, and a clear eye.
On a character level, however, in some cases it is overly sociable and sometimes it can turn out a little aggressive. Despite this, the Transylvanian hound is an ideal animal inside homes with children, because as previously mentioned, it has a innate sense of protection and he is willing to do anything to secure his masters.