Pet Wiki

Bulgarian Hound

Also called Barak, Bulgarian Barak, Balgarski Barak

A working scent hound kept by hunters; sources describe its hunting role rather than its home temperament.

SizeMedium
Weight19 to 27 kg (42 to 60 lb)males 23 to 27 kg, females 19 to 22 kg1
Height48 to 58 cm (19 to 23 in)males 53 to 58 cm, females 48 to 53 cm1
CoatLong, coarse (rough-haired)
OriginBulgaria (mainly the north, north-west and centre of the country)1
Rare breedShort profile
keen scenting hunter
hardy rough-coated build
rare regional heritage breed
1

Personality what they are like

A working scent hound kept by hunters; sources describe its hunting role rather than its home temperament.1

Coat and looks how to spot one

long, coarse (rough-haired)

A harsh, longer coat that sets it apart from the smooth-coated hounds of the Balkans.1

Coloursyellowish-redstraw yellowdark redred with grey or black-grey saddlesmall white marks allowed1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Bulgarian Hound. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • Brushingevery week
  • Bathevery 8 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
  • Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
  • ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Bred as a hunting scent hound, so it is suited to owners who can give it regular long outings and scent work.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The coarse longer coat benefits from regular brushing to keep it tidy.1

The story where it all began

This is a long-haired hound lineage of Bulgaria that was first written about by F. Laszka in 1905. It is regarded as the only long-haired hound of its region, and a 2020 genetic study linked its maternal DNA to Bronze Age dog remains found in Italy.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    It is described as the only long-haired hound breed in its part of the Balkans.1

  2. 2

    The breed was first described in writing by F. Laszka in 1905.1

  3. 3

    A 2020 mitochondrial DNA study found shared sequences between modern Bulgarian Hounds and Italian dogs that lived about 3,300 to 3,600 years ago.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed is also known as the Barak, and its Bulgarian name is 'Български барак' (Balgarski Barak). The name 'Barak' is the traditional name for this long-haired hound breed in Bulgaria.1

Name ideas for your new friend

BarakBorisDobriHoundIskarKosaraLudoMilaRilaScentViharZora

A day in the life told by a Bulgarian Hound

My day starts with a long walk in the forest. I sniff the ground, following scents of deer and hare. My person lets me lead, and I find a trail, my nose goes wild! We run for hours, me barking with joy when I find a fresh track. Back home, I flop on the cool floor, tired but happy. My person scratches my ears and says I'm the best hunting partner. Another great day.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

Bulgarian Republican Federation of Cynology (BRFK)
Has a national breed standard.1
FCI
Not recognised by the FCI.1

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Blueberry and Oat Bites

These three-ingredient treats are quick to make and packed with antioxidants from blueberries and fibre from oats. They are low in fat and perfect as a training reward.

You need

  • 100g oats
  • 1 banana (mashed)
  • 40g fresh blueberries (chopped)
  • Splash of water (as needed)

How

  1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
  2. In a bowl, mix the mashed banana, oats, and chopped blueberries together.
  3. Add splashes of water gradually until the mixture comes together into a large ball.
  4. Roll out the mixture on a lightly floured surface to about 1-2cm thick.
  5. Use a knife or cookie cutter to cut into shapes.
  6. Place the shapes on a lined baking tray.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until slightly browned.
  8. Leave to cool completely before serving.

How much: Offer one or two bites per day for a medium-sized dog. Reduce your dog's usual food portion to account for these treats.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Bulgarian Hound, and at what times?

Feed adult Bulgarian Hounds at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. The exact times can vary, but a consistent schedule is best. For amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.2

What should a Bulgarian Hound eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by the ASPCA. Always consult your vet for a tailored diet plan.3

How often should I bathe a Bulgarian Hound?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests bathing every 56 days, but you can bathe more often if needed. Use a dog-specific shampoo and avoid over-bathing to keep its coat healthy.4 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Bulgarian Hound need brushing?

Brush your Bulgarian Hound weekly to keep its coarse coat tidy and remove loose hair. Pet Wiki's plan suggests brushing every 7 days. Regular brushing also helps distribute natural oils.14 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Bulgarian Hound's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 28 days or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Use dog nail clippers and cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.4 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Bulgarian Hound need?

This breed needs daily exercise with long walks and opportunities for scent work. As a hunting hound, it thrives on regular outings. Aim for at least an hour of activity each day.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Bulgarian Hound's teeth and ears?

Brush your Bulgarian Hound's teeth daily if possible, at least 2-3 times a week, using dog toothpaste. Check ears weekly and dry them gently, as floppy ears can trap moisture. Never insert anything into the ear canal.4 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Bulgarian Hound live?

Lifespan varies; consult your vet for breed-specific information. Typically, medium-sized dogs live around 10-13 years, but this is not confirmed for this breed. Ask a good breeder or vet.

Is a Bulgarian Hound good with children and other pets?

As a working hound, its temperament around children and other pets can vary. Early socialization and training are important. Consult a breeder or vet for specific advice.

Can a Bulgarian Hound be left alone?

This breed's tolerance for being alone depends on its individual temperament and training. As a hunting hound, it may need companionship and activity. Ask a good breeder or vet for guidance.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. Bulgarian Hound - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for all fields (secondary source citing BRFK standard and genetic studies)
  2. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  3. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  4. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.