Pet Wiki

Serbian Tricolour Hound

Also called Srpski Trobojni Gonič, Yugoslavian Tricolour Hound

Loyal and kind, forming close bonds with its people and usually eager to please.

SizeMedium
Weight20 to 25 kg (44 to 55 lb)1
Height44 to 55 cm (17 to 22 in)males 45 to 55 cm, females 44 to 54 cm21
CoatShort, thick, glossy with undercoat
OriginSerbia (Balkans)31
GroupFCI group 6
Recognised breedShort profile
devoted and affectionate
calm indoors, driven outdoors
great endurance
21

Personality what they are like

Loyal and kind, forming close bonds with its people and usually eager to please. It is relaxed in the house but full of energy and persistence at work.21

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, thick, glossy with undercoat

A sturdy, rectangular hound with a long head and a short, shiny coat that feels slightly coarse, with a good undercoat underneath.21

Coloursdeep red or fox red with a black saddlewhite markings on head, neck, chest, legs and tail tip (no more than a third of the body)2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Serbian Tricolour 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

High. Used for hunts lasting many hours over hard terrain, so it needs plenty of daily exercise.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Low. Weekly brushing suits the short coat; keep the hanging ears clean.2

Home where they are happiest

Suits an active, rural or outdoorsy home with secure space.1

Company who they like around

Bonds strongly with its owners and traditionally hunts in small packs.1

The story where it all began

The tricolour hound was long treated as a variety of the Serbian Hound until it was given its own standard in 1946. The FCI recognised it in 1961 under the name Yugoslavian Tricolour Hound, which changed after Yugoslavia broke up.21

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    It was first recognised by the FCI under the name Yugoslavian Tricolour Hound.2

  2. 2

    The standard limits white markings to no more than one third of the coat.2

  3. 3

    It hunts mainly by scent but also has good eyesight.1

  4. 4

    It is rarely seen outside Serbia.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name 'Serbian Tricolour Hound' (original name: SRPSKI TROBOJNI GONIČ) refers to its country of origin, Serbia, and its tricolour coat pattern of deep red, black, and white.4

Name ideas for your new friend

TrobojkaLepaBojanZoraRistaDaraŠaraMilošVesnaCvrkNadaBoki

A day in the life told by a Serbian Tricolour Hound

I woke up and nudged my human's hand until they scratched my ears. After breakfast, we went to the forest, and I found a trail that zigzagged for hours. I barked happily when I spotted a squirrel, but my human called me back. At home, I curled up on the sofa, dreaming of tomorrow's adventure. I love my pack, and they love me back.

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

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard No. 229 (Srpski Trobojni Gonic), Group 6, Section 1.2 (medium-sized scent hounds); accepted 23 Jul 1961; current standard 26 Nov 2002; working trial3
Kinološki Savez Srbije
Recognised as a breed separate from the Serbian Hound in 19461

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 Tricolour Hound, and at what times?

Feed your Serbian Tricolour Hound at least two meals a day, ideally at the same times each morning and evening. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.5

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

A high-quality dog food suited to their age and activity level is best. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always avoid these and consult your vet for a complete list.6

How often should I bathe a Serbian Tricolour 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 they get very dirty or have skin issues, but avoid overbathing to keep their coat healthy.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Serbian Tricolour Hound need brushing?

A weekly brushing is perfect for their short, thick coat. This removes loose hair and keeps the coat shiny. Pet Wiki's plan also recommends weekly brushing.27 Pet Wiki plan

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

Trim nails about every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part). If you're unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.7 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Serbian Tricolour Hound need?

This breed has high energy and needs plenty of daily exercise, including long walks and active play. They were bred for long hunts, so a tired hound is a happy hound. Pet Wiki's plan recommends daily walks and play.1 Pet Wiki plan

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

Brush their teeth two to three times a week with dog-safe toothpaste. Check their floppy ears weekly for moisture or dirt, and dry them gently. Never push anything into the ear canal.7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Serbian Tricolour Hound live?

Lifespan varies for each dog. Ask your vet or a reputable breeder for an estimate based on the dog's lineage and health.

Is a Serbian Tricolour Hound good with children and other pets?

Yes, they are loyal and kind, forming close bonds with their family. They traditionally hunt in packs, so they usually get along well with other dogs. Supervise around small pets due to their hunting instinct.21

Can a Serbian Tricolour Hound be left alone?

They bond strongly with their owners and may not enjoy long periods alone. Provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation before leaving them. If left too long, they could become bored or anxious.21

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. Serbian Tricolour Hound - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for weight, temperament, use, history, facts
  2. FCI Standard 229 (English) fci.beused for history, temperament, size, coat, colours
  3. FCI - Serbian Tricolour Hound (229) fci.beused for recognition
  4. fci.be fci.be
  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.