Greek Harehound

Also called Hellenic Hound, Hellinikos Ichnilatis, Greek Hound, Gkekas

An energetic, eager and bright hound that loves to work.

Size	Medium
Weight	17 to 20 kg (37 to 44 lb)1 2
Height	43 to 57 cm (17 to 22 in)males 45 to 57 cm, females 43 to 55 cm1 2
Lifespan	13 years3
Coat	Short, dense, slightly hard
Origin	Greece (southern Greece)4 3
Group	FCI group 6
Last checked	2026-09-30

Recognised breedShort profile

lively and keen

great stamina

ringing voice

1 2

Personality what they are like

An energetic, eager and bright hound that loves to work. It hunts well alone or in a pack and uses a clear, carrying voice when on a trail.1 2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Greek Harehound. 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, dense, slightly hard

A lean, strong, medium-sized scent hound, a little longer than tall, with a short, close-lying coat that feels slightly harsh.1 2 3

Coloursblack and tan (a small white chest spot is allowed)1 2

Daily activity how busy a day looks

High: bred for long days tracking hare over rough, hilly ground, so it needs vigorous daily exercise and scent-based activity.1 3

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Minimal: an occasional brush keeps the short coat neat.1 2

Home where they are happiest

Best in an active, outdoor-oriented home with secure space.1

Company who they like around

Comfortable working with other hounds in a pack.1

The story where it all began

Developed in southern Greece to track and chase hare, this hound is thought to descend from the ancient Laconian hounds. Mountain isolation kept the type largely unchanged, and the FCI accepted the breed in 1959.3 4

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
It comes in only one colour pattern: black and tan.3
2
Wikipedia describes it as the only Greek breed recognised by the FCI.3
3
Its gait is described as swift and light, and the tail is carried in a sabre curve.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed is named for its primary function: hunting hares in Greece. It is also known as the Hellenic Hound (Hellinikos Ichnilatis), where 'Hellinikos' means 'Greek' and 'Ichnilatis' means 'tracker' or 'scent hound'.5

Name ideas for your new friend

ApolloAtlasBellaDaphneEchoHeraKostasNikoOlympiaRheaSocratesZoe

A day in the life told by a Greek Harehound

I’m a Greek Harehound, and every morning starts with a long run over rocky hills. I follow every scent with my nose to the ground, barking joyfully when I find a trail. My human laughs and calls me back, but I can’t help it, I love the chase. After a good romp, I curl up in the sun, dreaming of tomorrow’s adventure.

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

Recognised by the official bits

FCI: Standard No. 214 (Hellinikos Ichnilatis), Group 6, Section 1.2 Medium-sized hounds; definitive acceptance 16 Oct 1959; current standard dated 19964
UKC: Recognised 2006 as Hellenic Hound, Scenthound Group2

Treats they will love homemade and simple

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

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

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

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

Frozen Yoghurt and Fruit Treats

These refreshing frozen treats are perfect for warm days and use simple, dog-safe ingredients. Yoghurt provides calcium and probiotics, while strawberries and apple add vitamins and natural sweetness.

You need

30g plain, unsweetened yoghurt (no additives or sweeteners)
2-3 medium strawberries (washed and chopped)
Half a small apple (cored and chopped into small pieces)

How

Wash the strawberries and apple thoroughly. Core the apple and chop both fruits into small, bite-sized pieces.
Mix the chopped fruit together in a small bowl.
Place a few pieces of fruit (no more than five) into each compartment of a small silicone mould or ice cube tray. Each mould should be roughly 30mm x 25mm x 17mm or smaller.
Pour the plain yoghurt over the fruit, filling each mould to the top.
Place the mould or tray in the freezer for at least 3-4 hours, or until fully frozen.
Pop the treats out of the moulds and serve immediately.

How much: Small dogs can have one treat per day; medium/large dogs can have two per day. These count towards the 10% treat allowance, so reduce your dog's main meals accordingly.

Recipe from PDSA

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 Greek Harehound, and at what times?

Feed adult Greek Harehounds at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Consistent morning and evening times work well. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.6

What should a Greek Harehound eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A high-quality dog food suited to its life stage is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol. Always consult your vet for a tailored diet.7

How often should I bathe a Greek Harehound?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets dirty. A bath every three months is a good general guideline.8 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Greek Harehound need brushing?

Brush your Greek Harehound weekly to keep its short, dense coat neat. Pet Wiki's starting plan recommends brushing every 7 days.1 2 8 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Greek Harehound's nails, and how often?

Trim nails when you hear clicking on the floor, about every 28 days as a starting point. Cut a little at a time and stop before the quick. If unsure, ask a vet or groomer.8 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Greek Harehound need?

This energetic hound needs vigorous daily exercise, including long walks and scent-based activities. Pet Wiki's starting plan recommends daily walks and play.1 3 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Greek Harehound's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste; daily is ideal. Check ears weekly and dry them, especially since floppy ears trap moisture. Never push anything into the ear canal.8 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Greek Harehound live?

The Greek Harehound typically lives around 13 years, a lovely long life for an active companion.3

Is a Greek Harehound good with children and other pets?

This hound is comfortable working with other hounds, but its temperament with children and other pets can vary. For specific guidance, ask a good breeder or an experienced vet.1

Can a Greek Harehound be left alone?

This energetic hound thrives with activity and company, so leaving it alone for long periods may not suit it well. It's best to ask a good breeder or vet about your specific dog's needs.1

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.