Pet Wiki

Serbian Hound

Also called Srpski Gonič, Balkan Hound, Balkanski Gonič

Recognised breedFCI group 6Short profile

From Serbia (Balkans)12

At a glance the quick version

Height, male46 to 56 cm32
Height, female44 to 54 cm32
Sizemedium
tireless stamina
lively and dependable
copes with rough terrain
32

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, dense, glossy with undercoat

A robust, medium-sized hound, a little longer than tall, with high-set hanging ears and a tail carried low. The short coat is thick and shiny with an undercoat beneath.3

Coloursfox red from yellowish red to rust with a black saddle or mantleblack markings on the templessmall white chest spot allowed32

Personality what they are like

Friendly and lively, with a dependable nature and real staying power. It is energetic and disciplined when working and full of character.32

Daily activity how busy a day looks

High. A pack hound used for long hunts over difficult ground, so it needs generous daily exercise.2

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Low. A weekly brush keeps the short, dense coat tidy; check the hanging ears regularly.3

Home where they are happiest

Suits an active, rural home with secure outdoor space.2

Company who they like around

Traditionally kept and hunted in packs, so it is used to other dogs.2

The story where it all began

This old Balkan scent hound comes from hounds that spread across the region, probably with some Asia Minor influence. Long known as the Balkan Hound, it was renamed the Serbian Hound in 1996 because it is found mainly in Serbia.32

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    The FCI standard says the breed is mentioned in writing as early as the year 1005.3

  2. 2

    Until 1996 it was officially called the Balkan Hound.2

  3. 3

    It is known for a high-pitched voice while on the trail.2

  4. 4

    It has traditionally been used in packs on boar, deer, fox and hare.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed was originally known as the Balkan Scenthound. Because the breed was most widespread in Serbia, in 1996 the name was changed to Serbian Hound.4

Name ideas for your new friend

BalkanGoničKosaZekaLunaRokoMilaBuraSrećkoDunjaVukCvrle

A day in the life told by a Serbian Hound

This morning I woke up and stretched my legs, ready for a long sniff around the yard. My human laughed when I chased a leaf, thinking it was a rabbit. Later, we walked through the fields, and I followed a scent trail for ages, my tail wagging the whole time. Back home, I flopped on the cool tiles and watched the sunset, happy and tired. Life is simple: run, sniff, and cuddle.

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

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard No. 150 (Srpski Gonic), Group 6, Section 1.2 (medium-sized scent hounds); accepted 30 Mar 1955; current standard 25 Mar 2003; working trial. Renamed from Balkan Hound in 19961

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Serbian Hound. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

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

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

  1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
  2. In a bowl, mix the mashed banana, oats, and chopped blueberries together.
  3. Add splashes of water gradually until the mixture comes together into a large ball.
  4. Roll out the mixture on a lightly floured surface to about 1-2cm thick.
  5. Use a knife or cookie cutter to cut into shapes.
  6. Place the shapes on a lined baking tray.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until slightly browned.
  8. 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

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 Serbian Hound, and at what times?

Feed your Serbian Hound at least two meals a day, ideally at the same times each morning and evening. This matches general guidance for adult dogs and helps keep their energy steady.5

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

Choose a high-quality dog food suited to their active lifestyle. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, as these are especially harmful to dogs.6

How often should I bathe a Serbian Hound?

A bath every eight weeks or so keeps their short coat fresh, following Furry Diary's plan. You can bathe more often if they get very dirty, but at least once every three months is fine.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Serbian Hound need brushing?

A weekly brush is perfect for their short, dense coat to keep it tidy and remove loose hair. Furry Diary suggests brushing every seven days, and it's a nice bonding moment.37 Pet Wiki plan

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

Trim nails about every four weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick, to keep them comfortable.7 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Serbian Hound need?

This energetic hound needs generous daily exercise, like long walks or play sessions. Furry Diary recommends daily walks and play to match their high activity needs.2 Pet Wiki plan

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

Brush teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste, and check their floppy ears weekly for moisture. Never push anything into the ear canal; just dry gently.7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Serbian Hound live?

Lifespan varies for each dog, so ask your vet for breed-specific information. They can give you the best guidance based on your hound's health.

Is a Serbian Hound good with children and other pets?

Yes, they are friendly, lively, and dependable, and they get along well with other dogs since they are used to pack life. With proper socialization, they can be wonderful family members.32

Can a Serbian Hound be left alone?

This pack-oriented hound enjoys company, so being left alone for long periods may not suit them. It's best to ask a good breeder about their individual tolerance.

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. FCI - Serbian Hound (150) fci.beused for recognition
  2. Serbian Hound - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for names, weight, use, temperament, facts
  3. FCI Standard 150 (English) fci.beused for history, temperament, size, coat, colours
  4. ukcdogs.com ukcdogs.com
  5. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  7. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

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