Bosnian broken-haired hound

Summary

The Bosnian broken-haired hound, also known as Barak, is a breed of dog originating from Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is a medium-sized hunting dog, specifically bred for tracking small game such as rabbits and wild boars. This breed is known for its endurance, agility, and excellent scenting abilities.

Baraks have a distinctive appearance with their rough and broken coat, which is dense and weather-resistant. The coat comes in various colors, including tricolor (black, tan, and white) or bicolor (black and white). The breed has expressive, intelligent eyes and long, floppy ears.

Known for their friendly and sociable nature, Baraks make loyal and affectionate family pets. They are generally good with children and get along well with other dogs. However, their hunting instincts may make them less suitable for homes with small pets like cats or rabbits. They require regular exercise to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

With the right training and socialization, Baraks can be obedient and well-behaved dogs. They are fast learners and have a strong desire to please their owners. Due to their hunting background, they may have a strong prey drive, so it's important to provide them with outlets for their energy and mental stimulation.

Overall, the Bosnian broken-haired hound, or Barak, is a versatile and capable hunting breed that also excels as a loving companion.

Usage areas

The Bosnian broken-haired hound, commonly known as barak, is a versatile and capable breed with a rich history. Bred in Bosnia and Herzegovina, this medium-sized dog is primarily known for its exceptional hunting abilities and is considered the national breed of the country.

Barak dogs were originally developed for hunting various game in the region, including larger mammals like wild boar, as well as smaller prey such as hares and foxes. Their excellent sense of smell, powerful tracking skills, and endurance make them well-suited for hunting in challenging and rugged terrains. These dogs are often employed by hunters to track, scent, and flush out game, showcasing their remarkable determination and agility.

In addition to hunting, barak dogs are also known for their loyalty and affectionate nature, making them wonderful companions and family pets. They thrive in environments where they have plenty of space to exercise and play. Their playful and outgoing personalities require mental and physical stimulation, as well as regular exercise, to keep them happy and content.

Due to their remarkable scenting abilities and trainability, barak dogs can also excel in search and rescue operations. Their keen sense of smell, intelligence, and natural instincts make them well-suited for search missions, whether it's locating missing persons or finding trapped individuals in disaster-stricken areas. Their strong work ethic and ability to handle challenging situations with focus and determination make them a valuable asset in these scenarios.

Moreover, barak dogs have also been utilized in police work, specifically in narcotics detection. Their exceptional scenting capabilities and trainability enable them to locate hidden drugs with precision, making them an asset to law enforcement agencies.

Overall, the Bosnian broken-haired hound, or barak, is a versatile breed with a history deeply rooted in hunting. Whether it's as a hunting companion, search and rescue dog, or working alongside law enforcement, the barak's capabilities and loyal nature make it a valuable asset in various usage areas.

Mentality

The Bosnian Broken-haired Hound, also known as the Barak, is a versatile and intelligent hunting breed originating from Bosnia and Herzegovina. This breed is highly valued for its exceptional scenting abilities, stamina, and strong work ethic.

The Barak is known for its steadfast and focused mentality, making it an excellent choice for hunters seeking a dedicated and effective tracking partner. With a natural instinct for tracking scents, these dogs excel in various hunting activities, including trailing game through various terrains, such as forests, mountains, and lowland areas.

While primarily bred for hunting, Bosnian Broken-haired Hounds also make excellent companions and family dogs due to their generally friendly and affectionate nature. They form strong bonds with their human family and are known to be exceptionally loyal and protective.

Despite their dedication and loyalty, Baraks are typically reserved and somewhat aloof with strangers, making them natural guard dogs. Their vigilant and watchful nature makes them highly effective at alerting their owners to any potential threats or unfamiliar individuals approaching their territory.

In terms of training, it is important to note that the Bosnian Broken-haired Hound possesses a strong independent streak. While they are intelligent and capable of learning quickly, they may require a patient and consistent approach to training. Thus, early socialization and obedience training are crucial to ensure that these dogs grow up to be well-rounded and obedient companions.

In terms of exercise needs, Baraks are an energetic breed that requires regular physical activity to thrive. This includes daily walks, jogs, or runs, along with ample opportunities for mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys or scent games. Regular exercise is essential in preventing boredom and keeping these dogs physically and mentally healthy.

Overall, the Bosnian Broken-haired Hound, or Barak, is a dedicated and versatile breed with a strong work ethic and unwavering focus. Their loyal and protective nature, combined with their exceptional hunting abilities, makes them an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile hunting dog or a loyal and vigilant companion.

Health

The Bosnian broken-haired hound, also known as barak, is a breed known for its excellent overall health and vitality. These dogs have evolved over the years to adapt to the diverse terrain and climate of Bosnia and Herzegovina, resulting in a robust and resilient breed with relatively few health issues.

One of the defining characteristics of the barak is its shaggy, broken coat, which provides them with protection against various environmental elements. This coat requires regular brushing to maintain its quality and prevent matting. Additionally, the barak has floppy ears that should be checked regularly for any signs of infection or ear mites.

Like any other dog breed, baraks are not immune to certain health concerns. However, they generally have a lower risk of developing genetic disorders or breed-specific health issues. Responsible breeders perform health screenings to ensure that the breeding stock is free from any hereditary conditions.

As with all dogs, keeping a barak in good health requires proper nutrition, regular exercise, and routine veterinary care. Providing a balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight will help prevent obesity and associated problems such as joint issues. Regular exercise is essential for these active dogs, as it helps maintain their physical and mental well-being.

It is crucial for barak owners to be vigilant with preventative healthcare measures, such as vaccinations, regular deworming, and tick and flea prevention. Regular veterinary check-ups are also recommended to detect any potential health issues early on.

Overall, the Bosnian broken-haired hound, or barak, is a healthy and hardy breed. With proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary attention, these dogs can enjoy long and healthy lives as loyal and beloved companions.

Size and looks

The Bosnian Broken-haired Hound, also known as Barak, is a medium-sized dog breed. They have a well-balanced and sturdy build, with a muscular body.

The Barak has a unique and distinct appearance. Their coat is dense and wiry, which gives them excellent protection from harsh weather conditions and dense undergrowth. The coat color can vary, but it typically comes in a combination of black, tan, and white. Some Baraks may have ticking on their coat, which adds to their overall charm.

Their head is set well on a strong neck, with a moderately long muzzle and powerful jaws. The eyes are medium-sized and usually brown or hazel in color. They have medium-sized pendant ears that are set at eye level and hang close to the head.

Baraks have a noble expression and an alert posture. They possess a balanced and graceful gait, enabling them to move swiftly and with agility.

Overall, the Bosnian Broken-haired Hound, or Barak, is a beautiful and athletic breed with a distinctive appearance that sets them apart.

History

The Bosnian broken-haired hound, or barak, is an ancient breed that hails from Bosnia and Herzegovina. This breed has a rich history that can be traced back to the medieval era.

Originally developed as a noble and regal hunting dog, the barak was highly esteemed by Bosnian aristocracy for its exceptional hunting skills and ability to work in difficult terrains. This breed was selectively bred to become a versatile hunting companion capable of tracking and chasing game, including hares, foxes, and wild boars.

The barak's distinctive appearance and features make it well-suited for its hunting role. It has a muscular body with a medium to large size, deep chest, and strong limbs. One of its most distinguishing characteristics is its unique, wiry, and broken coat, providing protection against harsh weather conditions and dense vegetation encountered during hunts.

Sadly, during various periods in history, the Bosnian broken-haired hound faced declining numbers due to social and political upheavals. However, dedicated breed enthusiasts and hunters worked diligently to preserve and revitalize the breed. Today, there are efforts to continue its conservation and recognition as a notable breed both within Bosnia and beyond.

The barak is known for its loyalty, intelligence, and strong work ethic. It is not only an excellent hunting companion but also a loving and devoted family dog. With proper training and socialization, it can adapt well to various living situations, making it a great companion for active individuals or families who appreciate its heritage and are willing to provide it with the exercise it needs.

Overall, the Bosnian broken-haired hound, or barak, represents a significant part of Bosnia's history and cultural heritage. Its unique abilities, versatility, and distinctive appearance make it a remarkable breed that continues to hold a special place in the hearts of dog enthusiasts and hunters alike.

Fur care

The Bosnian broken-haired hound, also known as Barak, has a distinctive coat that contributes to its unique appearance. The fur is characterized by being rough and broken, giving the breed an appealing and rustic texture.

The fur of the Barak is known to be medium length, with coarse outer hairs and a thick undercoat. This coat serves as protection against various weather conditions, including cold temperatures and thick vegetation while hunting. The coat is often dense and of moderate length, which helps these dogs adapt well to their natural environment.

As for fur care, the Bosnian broken-haired hound requires regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and in optimal condition. This breed is known to shed moderately throughout the year, so weekly brushing sessions will help remove loose hair and prevent matting. During shedding seasons which typically occur twice a year, more frequent brushing may be required.

Additionally, occasional bathing should be carried out to maintain hygiene and remove any dirt or unwanted odors. It is important to use a dog-specific shampoo that is gentle on the skin and coat. Regularly inspecting and cleaning the ears, trimming the nails, and brushing the teeth are general grooming needs that apply to all dog breeds, including the Bosnian broken-haired hound.

Other info

The Bosnian broken-haired hound, also known as the barak, is a breed of dog that hails from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Here are some more information and fun facts about this unique breed:

Appearance: The barak is a medium-sized dog, with a strong and muscular body. They have a unique coat which is short, thick, and hard, but with longer hairs dispersed throughout, giving it a broken appearance. The coat comes in various combinations of colors such as white, black, tan, and brown.
Hunting Heritage: The barak is primarily a hunting dog that was developed for tracking and trailing game, like wild boars, deer, and bears. They are known for their exceptional scenting abilities and are used by hunters for their tenacity and endurance in the field.
Temperament: This breed is known to be highly intelligent, courageous, and loyal. They are also described as friendly, sociable, and good-natured. The barak is generally good with children and can form strong bonds with their families.
Physical Activity: As a working breed with high energy levels, the barak requires regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They thrive in an active lifestyle, enjoying long walks, runs, and engaging in challenging games. A tired barak is a happy barak!
Training and Socialization: Early training and socialization are essential for this breed to ensure they grow into well-behaved and balanced adults. The barak is intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Positive reinforcement methods work best with this breed.
Health: The barak is generally a healthy breed with no known breed-specific issues. However, like any dog breed, they can be prone to certain health conditions such as hip dysplasia, ear infections, and bloat. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet are important for their overall well-being.
Popularity: The Bosnian broken-haired hound is most popular in its native country, Bosnia and Herzegovina, where it is considered a national treasure. Outside of its country of origin, it's a relatively rare breed and not commonly found in other parts of the world.

Remember, if you are interested in adopting or purchasing a barak, it's important to do thorough research to ensure the breed is the right fit for your lifestyle and living situation.

Bosnian broken-haired hound - called barak