Slovenský kopov

Also called Slovakian Hound, Slovak Hound, Black Forest Hound

A spirited, persistent and brave hunter in the field that is relaxed and good-natured at home.

Size	Medium
Weight	15 to 20 kg (33 to 44 lb)1
Height	40 to 50 cm (16 to 20 in)males 45 to 50 cm, females 40 to 45 cm1
Coat	Short, dense coat with undercoat
Origin	Slovakia, Central Europe.2 3
Group	FCI group 6

Recognised breedShort profile

tireless tracker with great stamina

excellent sense of direction

easygoing and good with children

1 4 3

Personality what they are like

A spirited, persistent and brave hunter in the field that is relaxed and good-natured at home. It is clever and trainable, loyal to its family and watchful over its property, and fairly quiet for a hound.1 3 4

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, dense coat with undercoat

A light, agile hound with a close-fitting, moderately coarse coat about 2-5 cm long, a little longer on the back, neck and tail, over a dense undercoat that thickens in winter.1

Coloursblack with brown to mahogany tan markings1 3

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Slovenský kopov. 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: bred to follow a trail for hours, so it needs long daily walks or runs and scent work or hunting to keep it content.1 4

Company who they like around

Gets on well with children and bonds with its family, while keeping an eye on the home.3

The story where it all began

Hounds of this type have hunted in the Slovak forests for a very long time, probably shaped by Austrian, Polish and Hungarian hounds. The modern breed was described from the 1870s, the FCI recognised it in 1963, and a breed club was set up in Bratislava in 1988.3 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
It can follow a warm trail for hours, giving voice as it goes, and is prized for wild boar hunting.1
2
The breed standard highlights its unusually strong sense of direction, helping it find its way back to the hunter.1
3
The name 'Black Forest Hound' used in North America seems to be a marketing name with no link to Germany's Black Forest.3
4
It always comes in the same colours: black with rich tan markings.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name 'Slovenský kopov' translates to 'Slovakian Hound' in English, reflecting its origin in Slovakia. The breed is also sometimes called 'Black Forest Hound' in North America, but this name was created for marketing and has no connection to the Black Forest.3

Name ideas for your new friend

TatraHajkaLesnikBrynzaZoraDubrovnikRufusBarkleySashaLukaMinaOskar

A day in the life told by a Slovenský kopov

This morning I sniffed the frosty trail behind the cottage, my nose full of wild boar and pine. After a good run through the meadow, I checked every fence post, all safe. Back home, I curled on the rug while my human read. Later, I gave a low woof at the mailman, then wagged hello. Evening came with a gentle head on my human's knee. A good day.

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

Recognised by the official bits

FCI: Standard no. 244, Group 6 (Scent hounds), Section 1.2 medium-sized hounds; definitive recognition 16 Apr 1963; subject to a working trial.2
United Kennel Club (UKC): Recognised.3

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 Slovenský kopov, and at what times?

Feed your adult Slovenský kopov at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Consistent times like morning and evening work well. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.5

What should a Slovenský kopov eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Your Slovenský kopov should eat a high-quality dog food suited to its age and activity. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, and xylitol, these are especially harmful to dogs. Always consult your vet for a safe diet.6

How often should I bathe a Slovenský kopov?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests bathing every 56 days, and general guidance recommends at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets dirty or has skin issues. Use a gentle dog shampoo.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Slovenský kopov need brushing?

Brush your Slovenský kopov weekly to keep its short, dense coat healthy and reduce shedding. During shedding seasons, you may need to brush more often. This also strengthens your bond.7 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Slovenský kopov's nails, and how often?

Trim your Slovenský kopov's nails every 28 days, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.7 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Slovenský kopov need?

Your Slovenský kopov needs high daily exercise, long walks, runs, and scent work to stay happy. Pet Wiki recommends daily walks and play. This breed thrives with an active owner.1 4 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Slovenský kopov's teeth and ears?

Brush your Slovenský kopov's teeth at least every other day, ideally daily, using dog toothpaste. Check ears weekly and dry them gently, floppy ears can trap moisture. Never insert anything into the ear canal.7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Slovenský kopov live?

Lifespan varies for this breed; consult your vet or a good breeder for typical expectations. They can give you the best guidance for your individual dog.

Is a Slovenský kopov good with children and other pets?

Yes, the Slovenský kopov is good-natured and gets on well with children, bonding closely with its family. It is also watchful over its home. Early socialisation helps with other pets.3 1 4

Can a Slovenský kopov be left alone?

This breed bonds closely with its family and may not enjoy long periods alone. It's best to ask your vet or a good breeder for advice on leaving it alone, as needs vary.

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.