Also known as the Magyar Agar is an affectionate and loyal breed. But how do you know whether you are ready to purchase a pet and if this breed is right for you? This information is absolutely necessary in making the decision to purchase a pet.
History
The origin of the Hungarian Greyhound can be traced all the way back to the 10th century in present day Hungary, where these dogs were bred and nurtured by the Magyar people. Enthusiasts believe that the Hungarian Greyhound did not descend from Greyhound breeds at all, but rather various Scenthound breeds, though this has never been proven scientifically or otherwise.
Throughout its history, the Hungarian Greyhound has been most commonly used for hunting, scenting, tracking, and retrieving game such as fox and rabbit, in the sport of racing, and as a watch dog, proving its superior abilities to work while providing gentle companionship.
Today, while the Hungarian Greyhound has attained a regional popularity as both a working and companion dog, the breed remains rather rare outside of its native Hungary.
Personality Traits
Best known for its friendly and outgoing nature, the Hungarian Greyhound is a genuinely happy breed that thrives on strong and dependable relationships with humans. These dogs are very intelligent and generally easy to train. As a pet, the Hungarian Greyhound is obedient, loyal, loving, and affectionate. This breed adapts well to indoor and apartment living, though it does require daily exercise and plenty of space outdoors.
Train-ability
Due to its eagerness to please and impress its owner and need for stimulation, the Hungarian Greyhound generally responds well to basic training and commands. These bright dogs have the ability to learn to perform most any task their trainer is willing to take the time to teach.
Establishing immediate trust and respect is key to successfully training the Hungarian Greyhound. This breed can be somewhat sensitive to criticism and responds best to positive reinforcement and reward-based training.
Benefits and Disadvantages of the Breed
There are many benefits to owning a Hungarian Greyhound, such as its no hassle, low maintenance coat. These intelligent dogs are obedient by nature, easy to train, and capable of learning to perform many impressive tricks and tasks. When properly socialized from a young age, the Hungarian Greyhound gets along well with children and other pets, known for its sweet and gentle approach to small children. This breed is alert and aware of its surroundings, serving as an effective watch dog by announcing the arrival of guests and unwanted visitors. The Hungarian Greyhound is obedient, loyal, loving, and affectionate, making an excellent hunting dog, family pet, and companion alike.
Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages to owning a Hungarian Greyhound. While this breed adapts well to indoor and apartment living, they do require large amounts of daily exercise and room to run and play outdoors. Anyone wishing to purchase this breed lacking the adequate amount of time and space to dedicate to the dog is strongly advised against doing so. A Hungarian Greyhound not receiving the adequate amount of exercise and space will often act out by destroying property, chewing, barking, whining, and ignoring basic training such as housebreaking.
The Hungarian Greyhound has a strong instinct to hunt and will occasionally indulge in a good chase. When on the run, these dogs are incredibly fast, and may pose a threat to other animals, neighborhood pets, and small woodland creatures. These dogs must be leashed or properly secured at all times when outdoors.
Proper training and socialization is absolutely required with the Hungarian Greyhound. The instinct to chase is so strong that these dogs may accidentally injure other pets. These behaviors can be greatly reduced with early training and socialization.
As previously mentioned, the Hungarian Greyhound remains rather rare outside of its native Hungary and can prove difficult to obtain. Individuals seeking to purchase this breed often encounter such challenges as inability to locate a breeder, high prices, and being placed on long waiting lists.
Common Health Concerns
While the Hungarian Greyhound is typically known as a healthy and hearty breed, they do suffer from a few health problems, including: hip dysplasia, frequent muscle strains, hypothyroidism, entropian – folding inward of the eye lid, ectropian – folding outward of the eye lid, sensitivity to anesthesia, and bloat.
Now that you know all about the breed, do you think you are ready to own a Hungarian Greyhound? Remember, purchasing a pet is a big decision and should be discussed thoroughly and seriously with your entire family.
Sources:
http://www.heydogs.com/h/hungarian-greyhound.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/maygar_agar
