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Also known as the Slovakian Hound, Slovak Hound, or Slowensky Kopov, a medium-sized odorous hound is of relatively light, but solid, build. Their coat is solid black with moderate roughness, close-fitting, dense and always tan marks. It is a highly intelligent breed with an excellent sense of smell and direction. Where he is known, he dominates the hunting world with his endurance, character and great courage.
A famous type of Hunting Dog since ancient times, the breed today was first identified in the 1870s. The first written reference to Slovensky Kopov dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries, when this breed was prohibited from crossing with others. This suggests that Kopov had already formed an identity among hunting circles. The name “”Kopov”” is derived from the Hungarian word “”kopo”” which means odor hunter. The bacround of this breed is believed to have used the Brandbrake (Austrian Black and Tan Hound), Chart Polski, and Magyar Agar (Hungarian Greyhound).
A more integrated approach to breeding kopovs began in 1915, when a series of regulations on hound dogs forbade the use of long breeds to chase deer. This was also a time when Kopov’s color patterns began to be standardized.
The modern era of Kopov breeding began in 1936. A few select dogs were chosen for a controlled breeding program aimed at removing any unwanted variation in color and height. Eventually, over several generations, the Kopov population stabilized and the genotype was standardized. In 1963, FCI accepted Slovensky Kopov as a Schnathound type Hunting Dog. The Slovak Hound Breeders Club was established in 1988 in Bratislava, Solvacia.
Although extremely common in its area of origin, it is now being discovered only by dog enthusiasts in other countries.
The Slovenski kopov or Slovakian hound is a distinctive hunting hound in appearance, with a muscular body, long legs, long tail and long drooping ears. The short coat is always black, with tan markings (black and tan). Dogs should weigh about 16 kg (35 lb) and be 46 cm (18 in) at the withers, with bitches being slightly smaller. The ideal size is described in the breed standard to discourage the breeding of overly large or overly small dogs. Other measurements for the ideal hound to preserve the breed type are given in the standard. The breed is more heavily built than the similarly marked American Black and Tan Coonhound, but a more sturdily built hound from Poland, more lightly built than the otherwise similar Oger Polski. The eyes are always deep, deep, and there is a glimpse of vivacity and courage in them.
The gestation period in lasts for 60-64 days The primary period of the reproductive cycle of the female is called Proestrus and goes on for around 9 days. During this time the females begin to draw in males. The subsequent part is the Estrus when the bitch is receptive to the male. It goes on for around 3 to 11 days. The third part is the Diestrus. Usually, it happens around day 14. In this period the bitch’s discharge changes for distinctive red and reaching its end. The vulva gets back to average, and she will no longer allow mating. The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time span between heat periods ordinarily keeps going around a half year. The litter size ranges between 6 to 8 puppies at a time’
Slovensky Kopov has a short, close-fitting coat that only needs to be brushed occasionally. Since he has dense undercoats, he sheds seasonally and during this time, more regular brushing will be required. Also, taking an occasional bath will keep him clean and he will look his best. Its strong, fast-growing nails should be cut with a nail clipper or grinder when needed to avoid overgrowth, splits, and cracks. Its ears should be periodically examined to avoid the formation of wax and debris, which may result in infection. The teeth should be brushed as required.
As with all breeds, initial socialization and puppy training classes are recommended. This breed has a reputation for being difficult to house. However, in every other case, it is very easy to train them. For example, They like to perform tricks and learn new ones quickly. They respond very well to training based on positive rewards rather than harsh or negative methods. This breed is required to live with his family and is likely to result in undesirable behaviour if he is regularly left alone for long periods of time.
Exercise options may include playing time in the backyard, preferably fencing, or taking walks several times a day. Exercise can also come in the form of indoor activities, such as hide-and-seek, chasing a ball rolling on the floor, or learning new tricks. Some outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, and retrieving balls or flying discs can provide a good outlet for spending energy. If you live in an apartment, even a short walk in the hallway can give your dog some exercise, especially during inclement weather. Training for dog sports such as agility, obedience and rally can also be a great way to give your dog exercise.
Slovensky Kopov should perform well on high quality dog food, whether it is commercially manufactured or prepared at home with the supervision and approval of your vet. Any diet should be appropriate for the age of the dog (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are at risk of being overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight levels. Treatment training can be an important aid, but giving too much can lead to obesity. Know which human foods are safe for dogs and which are not. Contact your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet. Clean, fresh water must be available at all times.
Some dogs may face health challenges in their lives, but most Slovakian predatory dogs are healthy dogs. Working with a responsible breeder, prospective owners can obtain the education necessary to learn about specific health concerns within the breed.