Also called Bulgarsko Gonche, Ludogorsko Gonche, Bicolor hound
A working hunting hound; sources focus on its role in the field rather than its home temperament.
| Size | Medium |
|---|---|
| Height | 47 to 58 cm (19 to 23 in)males 49 to 58 cm, females 47 to 58 cm1 |
| Coat | Short, smooth |
| Origin | Bulgaria (Ludogorie region, northern Bulgaria)1 |
A working hunting hound; sources focus on its role in the field rather than its home temperament.1
short, smooth
A short, close-lying smooth coat typical of Balkan hunting hounds.1
A typical home-care rhythm for a Bulgarian Scenthound. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
No breed-specific rule names the Bulgarian Scenthound in the 44 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Checked 2026-11-05. Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
As a hunting scent hound it needs plenty of daily exercise and chances to follow scent.1
The smooth coat needs only simple occasional brushing.1
The breed comes from the Ludogorie area of northern Bulgaria and is now the most widespread smooth-coated hunting dog in the country. It belongs to the family of Balkan hounds and is related to the Greek Harehound, Serbian Hound and Transylvanian Hound.1
The breed name "Bulgarian Scenthound" comes from its country of origin, Bulgaria, and its role as a scent hound used for hunting. It is also known as "Bulgarsko Gonche" (Bulgarian: българско гонче), where "Gonche" means hound, and "Ludogorsko Gonche" after the Ludogorie region of northern Bulgaria where it originated.1
This morning I woke to the smell of dew and pine. My human called me for a walk, and I led her straight to the forest. I sniffed every tree, every rock, each one told a story. I found a trail and followed it for ages, my tail wagging like a flag. We stopped by a stream, and I splashed a little, then we headed home. I curled up on my bed, dreaming of tomorrow's scents.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
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
Feed your Bulgarian Scenthound at least two meals a day for adults, three to four for puppies. A consistent schedule helps digestion. Check the food label for portion sizes and ask your vet for a tailored plan.2
Feed a high-quality dog food suited to its age and activity. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol. Always consult your vet for specific dietary advice.3
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, and general guidance recommends at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets dirty or has skin issues. Use a dog-specific shampoo.4 Pet Wiki plan
Brush your Bulgarian Scenthound weekly to remove loose hair and keep its short smooth coat healthy. This simple routine is enough for this low-maintenance breed.14 Pet Wiki plan
Trim nails about every 28 days, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. Ask your vet or groomer to show you the proper technique.4 Pet Wiki plan
Your Bulgarian Scenthound needs plenty of daily exercise, including walks and chances to follow scents. Aim for at least an hour of activity each day to keep it happy and healthy.1 Pet Wiki plan
Brush your dog's teeth at least twice a week with dog toothpaste; daily is ideal. Check ears weekly and dry them gently, as floppy ears trap moisture. Never insert anything into the ear canal.4 Pet Wiki plan
Lifespan varies for this breed; many medium-sized hounds live 10 to 14 years. For more specific information, ask your breeder or vet.
As a working hunting hound, its home temperament is not well-documented. It may be good with children if socialized early, but always supervise. Ask a reputable breeder about its behavior with other pets.1
There is no specific information about being left alone. As an active hunting hound, it may not tolerate long periods without exercise. Consult your breeder or vet for advice.
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.
Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.
Bulgarian Hound
Greek Harehound
Serbian Hound
Transylvanian Hound