Basset Hound, Beagle and Basenji have in common the group to which they belong. They are all from the Hound category, dogs with high hunting skills and a very keen sense of smell. Dog breeds are divided into different groups according to a number of factors and abilities. There are several similarities between Hound dog breeds, whether they are physical or personality. Want to know what the dogsHound have in common, how is the division of dog groups made and what are the Hound dog breeds? The Paws of the House tells you all about it below!

Hound, Terrier, Shepherd group... understand the division of dog groups

According to the International Cynological Federation (FCI), there are 10 groups of dog breeds. Each of them brings together dogs that have certain characteristics in common, forming a kind of "family." Usually, dogs in the same group have some more prominent ability (such as sniffing or hunting), have a similar background (they acted as a guard dog, sniffer, companion...) and have the physique and characteristics of a dog.the similar personality (although there are differences, as the same group can house small and large dogs). The division of dog breed groups varies depending on the regulatory body. The main ones are the International Cynological Federation (FCI) and American Kennel Club (AKC).

According to the FCI, the dog groups are:

• Group 1: Shepherd and Cattle Dogs
• Group 2: Pinscher and Schnauzer Dogs, Molossoids and Mountain Dogs
• Group 3: Terrier dogs
• Group 4: Dachshund dogs
• Group 5: Spitz and Primitive Type Dogs
• Group 6: Hound or Sniffer Dogs
• Group 7: Pointing Dogs
• Group 8: Retriever Dogs, Lifters and Water Dogs
• Group 9: Companion Dogs
• Group 10: Greyhounds

According to the AKC, the division is made as follows:

• Sporting Dogs
• Hound or Sniffer Dogs
• Working Dogs
• Terrier dogs
• Toy dogs
• Non-Sporting Dogs
• Shepherd Dogs

There are some differences between these classifications. In the case of the Hound group, the AKC includes the Dachshund breed, while the FCI has a specific group for this dog (Group 4: Dachshunds). Regardless of which federation we are talking about, it is worth mentioning that there are still dogs without a defined breed, which do not have a specific group.

Hound group: learn about the origin of this group

The word "Hound" means "hunting dog" and this term well defines the dogs that are part of this group. It is believed that the dogs of the Hound group are the oldest to have an interaction with humans for work. Skeletons of Hound dogs have been found in very ancient excavations. In addition, there are drawings of Hound dogs on the walls of tombs in Ancient Egypt. The Hound group is alsoKnown as the sniffer dog group, every Hound breed acted as a sniffer dog and had a key role as a hunter. To this day, dogs that are part of the Hound group are natural born hunters and have very noticeable instincts.

Hound type dogs have physical adaptations that help in hunting

The Hound group is quite large, so the appearance among its members can vary. However, if there's one thing they all have in common, it's a well-developed muzzle. In addition, each Hound dog has an adaptation that allows their sniffing and hunting abilities to be so powerful. The long ears of some dogs like Basset Hound and Beagle help keep environmental odors close to the muzzle,The Dachshund (considered a Hound breed by the AKC) and the Basset Hound have short legs that help them stay closer to the ground, making it easier to sniff.

Every Hound dog breed is brave, determined and intelligent

Courage is something that unites all Hound dogs! Dogs from this group are fearless and always ready to go after what they need. Every Hound dog is very active and full of energy. Therefore, it is very important that the dog from this group has a regular exercise routine with games and walks. The dog collar is always a fundamental item, but when we talk about dogs from the groupHound dogs are even more essential. These pets are explorers and will be sniffing around all the time. Every Hound dog is very determined and very alert. They are intelligent and extremely curious dogs. One characteristic that sets the Hound group apart from other groups of hunting dogs is their sociability. Every Hound dog breed has a history of hunting together. They areHounds are used to working as a team and living in packs, so the Hound needs to have a more active social life and can't stand to be alone for long.

The Hound's powerful sense of smell is the group's trademark

The main characteristic that unites all dogs of the Hound group is the keen canine sense of smell. The Hound dog's sense of smell can be more powerful than any other. A great example is the Basset Hound. This breed of dog has more than 20 million odour receptors in its nose. But it is not only the dog's well-developed muzzle that makes its sense of smell so intense. As we explain,other anatomical features, such as the shape of the ears, make it easier for them to pick up scents. In addition, the brave and determined personality typical of the Hound group makes them even more committed during hunting or when sniffing, further contributing to their good sniffing ability.

Smell-guided Hound vs. Sight-guided Hound: understand the difference

The Hound group is mostly known for their dogs' keen sense of smell. They all really have a powerful sense of smell, but the truth is that Hound dogs are divided into those that are more guided by smell and those that are more guided by sight. The Hound dogs with the keenest sense of smell were bred to sniff in more enclosed places, such as dense woods. Basset Hound and Beagle are some of themHounds with more acute eyesight, such as Afghan Hounds and Basenji, were bred to hunt in more open places, such as forests. In other words: all dogs in the Hound group are hunting dogs, but the senses they use most for this task may vary.

Breeds of the Hound group

• Basenji
• Basset Hound
• Beagle
• Afghan Hound
• Bloodhound
• Borzoi
• Coonhound
• Dachshund (Dachshund)
• American Foxhound
• Greyhound
• Harrier
• Otterhound
• Whippet

Basenji

The Basenji is known for being a breed of dog that doesn't know how to bark. The shape of the larynx of this representative of the Hound group is different from other dogs. When air passes through it, it emits a different kind of sound, more reminiscent of a song than a bark. Therefore, it is the perfect option for those looking for a quiet dog at home. Like a good Hound dog, the Basenji is curious, independent andactive, as well as being extremely loyal to his family.

Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is the most famous among the Hound group. This breed of dog is known for its droopy ears and short legs, typical characteristics of a Basset. This breed of dog is also famous for its extremely sharp nose. During walks, this curious pet usually sniffs everything around him. A tip for those who have a Basset Hound dog is, from time to time...,offer certain items (such as pieces of clothing or bedding) for the animal to sniff. This way, it has its instincts stimulated in a healthy way. The success of the Basset Hound is also explained by its fun, quiet and very docile personality.

Beagle

Just like the Basset, the Beagle dog breed is among the most famous of the Hound group. This dog of English origin also has the charming drooping ears. The beauty of the breed draws anyone's attention, as well as its charming personality. The Beagle is that little dog that is always lively, with a unique adventurous spirit and always ready to have fun. Independent and curious, thisHound dog loves to explore everything around him.

Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound, or Afghan Greyhound, has a slightly more exotic appearance. With long legs, a slender body and a height that can reach 75 cm, the dog of this breed impresses anyone. Its long and voluminous coat still gives a special charm to this breed of Hound dog. The Afghan Hound is an extremely confident and very intelligent animal. It may be a little more reserved, but it isA striking feature of the Afghan Hound breed is its impressive speed!

Bloodhound

The Bloodhound is yet another example of a large Hound dog. Measuring up to 68 cm, this dog is still muscular and very strong. The little folds on the Bloodhound's face are its trademark. Many people believe that this animal has a sad appearance, but the truth is that the Bloodhound dog is very cheerful! Living with this Hound is quite simple, as the breed is calm in the most partJust remember that, like a good Hound dog, the Bloodhound needs to have its energy and instincts stimulated in the right way.

Borzoi

The Borzoi is considered one of the greatest sprinters among dogs. With very long legs, this dog has great agility and lightness when running, a characteristic that makes it one of the fastest dogs in the world. In addition to its unique speed, the Borzoi dog has an exceptional nose. Without a doubt, it is an excellent hunter! In the past, it was common to see the Borzoi hunting hares and other animals known for their high speed.But despite all the speed of the Borzoi breed, these dogs are very calm in everyday life and a very loyal companion.

Coonhound

The Coonhound is a Hound dog that, in the past, was mainly used to hunt raccoons. The breed originated in the United States, but is little known in Brazil. The Coonhound dog has a black coat with brown spots. Like other Hound dogs, such as the Basset, the Coonhound dog breed also has long, drooping ears. This dog is a little more serious and reserved, but at the same timeloves to be with his family and have fun with them. Because of his hunting background, he feels a great need to exercise and tends to live best in large spaces.

Dachshund (Dachshund)

The famous Dachshund dog, also called Dachshund or Shaggy, is a passionate little dog. The elongated body and short legs are the hallmarks of this Hound dog breed. Despite being short, he has a great protective instinct. Because he is very passionate about his guardian, he is not afraid to impose himself if he feels the need to protect him. Often, the Dachshund is confused with the Dachshund.Basset Hound, since both are lowly dogs. However, although both are dogs of the Hound group, they have their differences both physically and behaviorally.

American Foxhound

The American Foxhound is a classic hunting dog, named for the fact that in the past it was an excellent fox hunter. The American Foxhound has an exceptional nose, plenty of energy and very sharp instincts. The Foxhound is curious and brave, the type that loves to investigate everything around it. A curiosity is that the Foxhound is very playful and usually gets along very well with its friends.well with children.

Greyhound

The Greyhound - also called the English Greyhound - is considered the fastest dog in the world. The explanation lies in its aerodynamic anatomy. With long legs, slender body and muscular build, the Greyhound is very agile and can reach 68 km / h! This speed is an extra advantage that the Hound dog has during hunting. The Greyhound breed is usually very quiet. This Hound dog has nothing ofaggressive and living with him is always very pleasant.

Harrier

The Harrier is another member of the Hound family full of courage and determination. This little dog is the outgoing type, cheerful and very friendly with everyone. But like a good Hound dog, the Harrier breed dog has a very strong hunting side, with very evident instincts. In general, it is a very easy breed to deal with because, in addition to being calm, it is very loyal to the family. Often, the Harrier dog is very loyal to the family.confused with the Beagle, his brother from the Hound group, because of the physical similarities between the two.

Otterhound

The Otterhound is one of those dogs that bring joy wherever it goes. Very playful, lively and full of energy, it is impossible not to laugh in the presence of this little Hound dog. Otterhound puppy is very pleasant and a true companion. But don't think that this dog is just a joker. As a worthy Hound dog breed, the Otterhound is very active, has a powerful nose and possesses great skillsA curiosity is that the Otterhound loves to play in the water and has an enormous aptitude for hunting in aquatic places.

Whippet

Another example of a very fast Hound dog is the Whippet. This breed of dog has an elongated and slender body, with long legs and a muscular build. With these characteristics, the Whippet dog reaches long distances very quickly, a characteristic that makes its hunting abilities even more amazing. The Whippet Hound has a lot of energy and loves to run outdoors, but at the same time it isobedient and responsive to their guardian, they are one of the best dog breeds to accompany you when playing sports.