Hungarian Greyhound
Other names: Magyar Agar, Hungarian Agar
Although commonly known as the Hungarian Greyhound, the Magyar Agar (AH-gar) is not a direct relative of the common or garden greyhound. They look kind of alike and are both hunting ‘sight hounds,’ but the name is misleading. The Magyar Agar is a complex character of ancient stock, clever, kind, and generally obedient – but a lot depends on the training. In the wrong hands, he will soon become dissatisfied with civilian life which could lead to trouble. Other than that, he tends to be a friendly and sociable addition to the home, and requires a significant amount of exercise each day to keep him trim and happy – making him an ideal partner in crime for a cyclist or jogger.
Key facts about the Hungarian Greyhound
Origins and history
The Agár probably followed the native Hungarian Magyars to the region around Transylvania and the Carpathians (in today’s Romania) in the 10th century. He remained a common hunting dog throughout the centuries. Indeed, it is suggested that in Socialist times, these dogs roamed the streets, and hunters might pick one up for a job! Over years of working around mountainous areas and travelling with nomads, the Magyar Agar has become a truly long-range, high-stamina hunter.
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 10 - Sighthounds
Section
Section 3 : Short-haired Sighthounds
Physical characteristics of the Hungarian Greyhound
Adult size
Female : Between 24 and 26 in
Male : Between 26 and 28 in
Weight
Female : Between 55 and 66 lb
Male : Between 55 and 66 lb
Coat colour
Any colour is acceptable except blue, blue-white, brown, wolf-grey, black and tan, or tricolour.
Type of coat
Dense, coarse, and smooth, with the possibility of a dense undercoat in cold seasons.
Eye colour
Dark.
Description
He looks greyhoundish. But his bones are more substantial. His head has more of a wedge shape, his skin is thicker and his fur denser, to cope with that harsh Hungarian winter. Thus he comes across as stronger, tougher than the classic greyhound. He has a biggish nose for his size, with large, sensual nostrils to keep the air circulating as he runs. Seductive eyes and large, rose ears. See him run in dots, patches, or striped like a tiger: the Magyar Agar will not be pinned down, aesthetically!
Good to know
Being a sighthound, the Magyar Agar is among those breeds who are known to respond badly to anaesthesia.