Pet Wiki

Montenegrin Mountain Hound

Also called Crnogorski Planinski Gonič, Yugoslavian Mountain Hound (former name), Black Hound (historic name)

A balanced, gentle scent hound that bonds closely with its owner and is reliable and easy to guide.

SizeMedium
Weight20 to 25 kg (44 to 55 lb)1
Height44 to 54 cm (17 to 21 in)2
CoatShort dense coat
OriginMontenegro, in its mountainous regions.21
GroupFCI group 6
Recognised breedShort profile
steady and even-tempered
attached to its owner
trustworthy and easy to handle
2

Personality what they are like

A balanced, gentle scent hound that bonds closely with its owner and is reliable and easy to guide.2

Coat and looks how to spot one

short dense coat

A short, thick, glossy coat that lies flat, with a good undercoat for mountain weather.2

Coloursblack and tan21

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Montenegrin Mountain 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

A working hunting hound bred to trail fox, hare and other game over rough mountain ground, so it needs plenty of exercise.12

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The short coat is simple to keep; a regular brush is enough.2

The story where it all began

This black-and-tan hound belongs to the old family of Balkan scent hounds and was long known simply as the black hound. Its first standard appeared in 1924, the FCI recognised it in 1969, and it took its present Montenegrin name in 1997.21

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Triumph the Insult Comic Dog, the puppet from Late Night with Conan O'Brien, is said to be one of this breed.1

  2. 2

    Its first written standard dates back to 1924.2

  3. 3

    It looks a lot like the Austrian Black and Tan Hound.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed is named after its country of origin, Montenegro, and its mountainous terrain, as it was developed in the mountainous regions of Montenegro. It was formerly known as the Yugoslavian Mountain Hound and historically called the 'black hound'.1

Name ideas for your new friend

ZoraVukMilaBorisJelenaEchoTrailRavenBellaRocketDinaKoda

A day in the life told by a Montenegrin Mountain Hound

The sun peeks over the mountains, and I’m already at the door, tail wagging. My human and I hit the trail, I follow scents of fox and hare, my nose to the ground, a happy baying song. We pause by a stream; I lap at the cool water. Back home, I curl at my human’s feet, nuzzling their hand. Evenings are for cozy naps, dreaming of tomorrow’s run.

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

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard no. 279, Group 6 (Scent hounds); recognised 8 May 1969; renamed from Yugoslavian Mountain Hound on 15 July 1997; current standard published 19 December 2014.2

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 Montenegrin Mountain Hound, and at what times?

Feed your adult Montenegrin Mountain Hound at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Consistent times each day help their digestion. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.3

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

A high-quality dog food suited to their age and activity level is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, which are especially risky for dogs. Always check with your vet for specific dietary needs.4

How often should I bathe a Montenegrin Mountain Hound?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and general guidance says at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues, but avoid overbathing to keep their coat healthy.5 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Montenegrin Mountain Hound need brushing?

A weekly brush is enough to keep their short, dense coat in good condition. This removes loose hair and keeps the coat glossy. Pet Wiki's plan recommends brushing every 7 days.25 Pet Wiki plan

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

Trim nails every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.5 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Montenegrin Mountain Hound need?

This working hound needs plenty of daily exercise, including long walks and active play. They were bred to hunt over rough terrain, so a good run or hike is ideal. Pet Wiki's plan includes daily walks and playtime.12 Pet Wiki plan

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

Brush their teeth at least every other day with dog toothpaste, and check ears weekly. Their floppy ears can trap moisture, so dry them gently after baths or swimming. Never push anything into the ear canal.5 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Montenegrin Mountain Hound live?

Lifespan varies by individual, so ask your vet for typical expectations. Pet Wiki notes that senior care often begins around age 8, which can guide your planning. Pet Wiki plan

Is a Montenegrin Mountain Hound good with children and other pets?

This gentle, reliable hound bonds closely with its family and is easy to guide. With proper socialization from puppyhood, they can be wonderful with children and other pets. For specific advice, talk to a good breeder.2

Can a Montenegrin Mountain Hound be left alone?

This breed forms strong bonds with its owner and may not enjoy long periods alone. It's best to gradually accustom them to short absences and provide enrichment. For your dog's specific needs, consult your vet or breeder.

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: Montenegrin Mountain Hound en.wikipedia.orgused for weight, uses, fun facts
  2. FCI Standard No. 279 Montenegrin Mountain Hound fci.beused for history, size, coat, colour, temperament, recognition
  3. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  4. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

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