Pet Wiki

Erbi Txakur

Also called Erbi Txakurra, Euskal Erbi Txakur, Braco Navarro, Sabueso Navarro, Sabueso Pirenaico

SizeMedium
CoatShort coat
OriginSpain, Basque Country (provinces of Álava and Bizkaia).1
Last checked2026-09-30
Rare breedShort profile
keen scenting hunter
sturdy and muscular
part of Basque rural heritage
1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for an Erbi Txakur. 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

Coat and looks how to spot one

short coat

A medium-sized, muscular scenthound, a little smaller than the Spanish Hound, with a short coat and chestnut eyes.1

Colourspale orange-brown with white markings on face, chest, paws and tail tip1

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A working hunting hound bred for long days tracking game.1

The story where it all began

A traditional Basque scenthound once used mainly to hunt hare, which is where its name comes from. Today it more often trails wild boar and roe deer. The Basque Government recognised it as a native breed in 2001.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Its Basque name means 'hare dog'.1

  2. 2

    It is one of fourteen native animal breeds of the Basque Country.1

  3. 3

    It was included in the Basque rural development plan for 2007-2013 to help conserve it.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name Erbi Txakurra comes from Basque and means 'hare dog,' reflecting its traditional use for hunting hares.1

Name ideas for your new friend

AritzBasajaunEnekoGaraiIkerKepaLurMendiNoraOihanTxikiXabier

A day in the life told by an Erbi Txakur

I wake up before the sun, my nose already twitching with the scent of the Basque hills. My human and I set out on a long trail, and I lead the way, my nose to the ground. I track a rabbit through the brush, then pause to listen to the birds. At a stream, I lap up cool water and wag my tail. We walk for hours, and I feel the joy of the hunt in my bones. Back home, I flop onto my bed, tired but happy. My human pats my head, and I dream of tomorrow's adventure.

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

Recognised by the official bits

Basque Government
Recognised as a traditional Basque breed by decree in 2001; one of five Basque dog breeds.1

How many Fewer than 50 dogs1

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

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

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 Erbi Txakur, and at what times?

Feed your adult Erbi Txakur at least two meals a day at consistent times. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. For exact amounts, follow the food label and ask your vet.2

What should an Erbi Txakur eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Your Erbi Txakur should eat a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol. Always check with your vet for a complete list.3

How often should I bathe an Erbi Txakur?

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 very dirty or has skin issues.4 Pet Wiki plan

How often does an Erbi Txakur need brushing?

Brush your Erbi Txakur weekly to keep its short coat healthy and remove loose hair. This matches both Pet Wiki's plan and general grooming advice.4 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim an Erbi Txakur's nails, and how often?

Trim your Erbi Txakur's nails about every four weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a small amount at a time to avoid the quick.4 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does an Erbi Txakur need?

This energetic hound needs daily exercise like walks and playtime to stay happy and healthy. As a working breed, it thrives with plenty of activity.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after an Erbi Txakur's teeth and ears?

Brush your Erbi Txakur's teeth two to three times a week using dog toothpaste. Check its floppy ears weekly for moisture and dirt, and never push anything into the ear canal.4 Pet Wiki plan

How long does an Erbi Txakur live?

Lifespan varies for each dog. Ask your vet or a good breeder for typical expectations for your Erbi Txakur.

Is an Erbi Txakur good with children and other pets?

Temperament with children and other pets depends on individual upbringing and socialization. Consult a good breeder or trainer for guidance.

Can an Erbi Txakur be left alone?

Tolerance for being left alone varies. Ask your vet or a good breeder for advice based on your dog's personality.

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. Wikipedia, Erbi Txakur en.wikipedia.orgused for all fields
  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.