Magyar Agár

Also called Hungarian Greyhound, Hungarian Sighthound, Hungarian Gazehound, Magyar Agar

Recognised breedFCI group 10Short profile

From Hungary (including historic Transylvania).1 2

At a glance the quick version

Height, male65 to 70 cm1 2

Height, female62 to 67 cm1 2

Lifespan12 to 14 years2

Sizelarge

tireless stamina over long distances

loyal and intelligent

hardy in cold weather

1 2

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, dense, smooth, with winter undercoat

A strongly built, elegant sighthound with sturdier bone and muscle than a Greyhound and a body a little longer than it is tall. The short, close, rather coarse coat grows a thicker undercoat in the cold months.1 2

Coloursmost sighthound colours are allowedfawnbrindleblackwhiteparti-coloursnot accepted: blue, blue-white, brown, wolf-grey, black and tan, tricolour1 2

Personality what they are like

Calm and affectionate with its family, a little reserved with strangers, and quick to learn. It has a stronger watchdog streak than most sighthounds, yet it is protective without being aggressive, and it usually gets along with children and other dogs when well socialised.1 2

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A true endurance runner that needs daily walks plus regular chances to gallop in a safely fenced area; lure coursing and long-distance racing suit it well.1 2

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Low-maintenance, wash-and-wear coat; a weekly rub with a grooming mitt is usually enough, with a little more attention when the winter undercoat sheds.2

Home where they are happiest

Best in a home with access to secure open space for running; the thicker winter coat makes it more comfortable in cool climates than many short-coated sighthounds.2

Food basics what goes in the bowl

A quality complete diet suited to a large, lean, athletic dog, portioned to keep it in fit running condition.1

Company who they like around

Bonds closely with its household and enjoys company, including other dogs when introduced early.2

The story where it all began

The agár is thought to have travelled with the Magyar tribes into the Carpathian Basin around the 10th century, and archaeological finds support its long presence in Hungary. For centuries it ran beside mounted hunters after hare and deer, and in the 19th century some breeders added Greyhound blood to increase speed.1 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Hunters expected these dogs to keep pace with riders for roughly 30 to 50 km in a single day.2
2
It is not as quick as a Greyhound over a short sprint, but it has more staying power over long distances.2
3
Calling it the 'Hungarian Greyhound' is technically a misnomer; 'Hungarian sighthound' is the more accurate English name.2
4
A smaller type kept by farmers, known as the Farm Agár or hare catcher, has since disappeared.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name 'Magyar Agár' translates from Hungarian: 'Magyar' means Hungarian, and 'Agár' means sighthound or greyhound, so the name literally means 'Hungarian Sighthound'.3

Name ideas for your new friend

SprintShadowCsillagZephyrGreyBreezePistaFlashVelvetArrowHunNimble

A day in the life told by a Magyar Agár

I woke up slowly, stretching my long legs. After a gentle morning cuddle with my family, I trotted to the window to watch the world go by. Then came my favorite time: a run in the fenced field. I sprinted like the wind, my ears flying back, feeling free. Later, I lounged on the sofa, keeping an eye on the door. When a stranger came by, I gave a soft woof, but my tail wagged when I saw they were friendly. Evening brought a calm walk and more snuggles. I'm a gentle soul who loves speed and peace.

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

Recognised by the official bits

FCI: Standard no. 240, Group 10 Sighthounds, Section 3 Short-haired Sighthounds. Definitive acceptance 29.03.1963; current standard dated 06.04.2000; no working trial.4
UKC / ARBA: Eligible to compete with the United Kennel Club and the American Rare Breed Association, and at North American coursing events.2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Magyar Agár. 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 7every year

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

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
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

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

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

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 Magyar Agár, and at what times?

Feed your Magyar Agár at least two meals a day for an adult, and three to four smaller meals for a puppy. A quality complete diet suited to a large, lean, athletic dog is best, portioned to keep it in fit running condition. Follow the food label for amounts and check with your vet for the ideal schedule. Consistent meal times help with digestion and routine.1 5

What should a Magyar Agár eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A quality complete diet for a large, lean, athletic dog is recommended, portioned to maintain a fit running condition. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, among others. Always avoid these and consult your vet if you have any concerns about specific foods.1 6

How often should I bathe a Magyar Agár?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and general guidance says at least once every three months. Since the coat is short and low-maintenance, you can bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty. Use a gentle dog shampoo and avoid over-bathing to keep the skin healthy.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Magyar Agár need brushing?

A weekly rub with a grooming mitt is usually enough, with a little more attention when the winter undercoat sheds. Furry Diary's plan also recommends brushing every 7 days. This keeps the short, dense coat healthy and reduces shedding around the home.2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Magyar Agár's nails, and how often?

Furry Diary suggests trimming nails every 28 days, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Trim a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part inside the nail). If you're unsure, ask your vet or a groomer to show you the safe technique.7 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Magyar Agár need?

This breed is a true endurance runner that needs daily walks plus regular chances to gallop in a safely fenced area. Lure coursing and long-distance racing suit it well. Furry Diary's plan includes daily walks and play, so aim for at least an hour of activity each day with opportunities to stretch its legs.1 2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Magyar Agár's teeth and ears?

Brush your Magyar Agár's teeth two to three times a week, ideally daily, using a dog-safe toothpaste. Check ears weekly for moisture or dirt, especially since floppy ears can trap moisture. Never push anything into the ear canal; just clean the outer part with a vet-recommended solution.7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Magyar Agár live?

The Magyar Agár typically lives between 12 and 14 years. With good care, a balanced diet, and regular vet check-ups, many enjoy a long, healthy life. Senior years usually start around age 7, so adjust care as needed.2

Is a Magyar Agár good with children and other pets?

Yes, when well socialised, the Magyar Agár is calm and affectionate with its family and usually gets along with children and other dogs. It has a protective but not aggressive nature. Early introductions and positive experiences help build those bonds.1 2

Can a Magyar Agár be left alone?

This breed bonds closely with its household and enjoys company, so it may not be happy left alone for long periods. It's best to provide companionship or gradually train it to be comfortable alone. If you must leave it, ensure it has a secure space and plenty of mental stimulation.2

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.