The Istrian Short-Haired Hound temperament can be gentle and loyal. However, they don’t make the best household companions. This breed is an excellent hunter who is rarely kept as a pet.
This dog is best suited to hunting families.
There seems to be general disagreement about certain Istrian Short-Haired Hound traits. It is possible that there may be more individual difference than with many other breeds.
Table of Contents
Istrian Short-Haired Hound Temperament
1. Intelligent
Intelligence is a hallmark of the Istrian Short-Haired Hound’s temperament. Like most hunting dogs, she is bright and learns quickly.
2. Independent
However, also like most hunting breeds, she has a mind of her own. She is fairly easily trained. However, she’s unlikely to obey blindly, especially when following a scent.
3. Docile
Though she’s lively and enthusiastic in the field, the Istrian Short-Haired Hound temperament is different indoors. She’s calm and gentle and content to relax.
Some say this breed is also good with children, but others disagree. Again, this appears to be an individual difference. There is no evidence of aggression toward children.
The key here may be good socialization, but again, some individuals will do better than others.
4. Loyalty
One of the nicest things about the Istrian Short-Haired Hound temperament is its devotion to its owner. However, the strong bond this dog forms means she doesn’t like to be left alone for long periods of time.
5. Affectionate
The Istrian Short-Haired Hound temperament is usually affectionate with her owner or trainer, though some individuals may be less so. It is less likely to show affection to other humans.
6. Energetic
As a hunting breed, the Istrian needs a lot of exercise. If she doesn’t get it, you will have to deal with some negative Istrian Short-Haired Hound behaviors.
7. Strong Prey Drive
The Istrian Short-Haired Hound temperament is not suited to homes with small animal pets. It may be hard (if not impossible) to train her not to chase them.
As a breed, they are unreliable with other dogs. Some will do well, but others may not.
8. Vocal
This breed is known for its deep, booming voice. On the job, she barks nonstop as she tracks her prey. It’s an instinctive part of her hunting nature that may be hard to train out of her.
This dog can bark a lot when she’s anxious or uncertain. She’s not a good choice for homes with nearby neighbors.
She will bark to alert to strangers, but again, she is not aggressive. She is most likely be wary or aloof toward them.
Istrian Short-Haired Hound History
The Istrian Short-Haired Hound originated in the peninsula of Istria. Until 1947, Istria was part of Italy, but 90% of it now belongs to Croatia.
This breed has an ancient heritage. It was depicted in frescoes in a 13th century chapel in Beram in central Istria. Many historians consider it to be the oldest hound in that part of the world.
It is believed that the Istrian’s ancestors were ancient Phoenician sighthounds and various European scenthounds.
The Istrian Short-Haired Hound Temperament is as popular in her homeland as she ever was. She is still used there to hunt hare and fox.
The Istrian Short-Haired Hound breed was recognized by the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1949 and by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 2006.
This is a rare breed that’s hard to find outside of Europe.
Istrian Short-Haired Hound Training
This dog was born to hunt. She is intelligent and quick to learn. Though she’s generally eager to please, she has an independent streak too.
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