Hygen Hound
Other names : Hygenhund, Hygen Dog
The fact is that you’ve probably never heard of the Hygenhund. Even so, you will probably recognise his stance and his look, as he is an active, muscular and lithe dog, certainly very hound-like. Even though this breed of Hygenhund was developed for hunting purposes, he is also an amazing family pet too. If you are searching for a breed that will be obedient, loyal and also a good watchdog, perhaps the Hygenhund is the dog for you.
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Life expectancy |
The Hygen Hound has a life expectancy of between 11 and 13 years |
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Temperament |
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Size |
Medium
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Adult size |
Female
Between 19 and 22 in
Male
Between 20 and 23 in
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Adult weight |
Female
Between 44 and 55 lb
Male
Between 44 and 55 lb
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Coat colour
Yellow and red, chestnut (possibly with or without black shading), black with chestnut (often with white markings). |
Black
Brown
Red
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Type of coat
Straight and rough-haired, yet shiny and dense too. |
Long
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Eye colour
Brown. |
Brown
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Purchase price |
The Hygen Hound costs between £600 and £800 |
Outside of his native Norway, the Hygenhund dog isn’t very well known. In recent years his popularity has declined rapidly. This hard-working scent hound, and great family companion dog, has been given a hard rap, probably because of his tendency to be possessive.
More details about the Hygen Hound
Hygen Hound: Origins and history
This Norwegian hound was developed during the 19th century. A Norwegian breeder, Mr. Hygen, was responsible for breeding the first dogs of this variety; a hunting dog with great determination and stamina to pursue prey through the harsh Arctic regions. His first scent hounds, the Holsteiner Hounds, were bred with Scandinavian Hounds, to produce the resulting Hygenhunds who were more compact and lighter. Even today, the breed is very rare outside of Norway.
Physical characteristics of the Hygen Hound
This medium-sized scent hound is solidly built, yet compact. His head is triangular-shaped with a broad skull. The Hygenhund’s tail is carried high, and it should not curl over his back. His wide ears hang down, framing his face. This dog has a calm and keen expression with dark brown eyes.
FCI classification of the Hygen Hound
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Group 6 - Scent hounds and related breeds
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Section 1 : Scent hounds
Hygen Hound: Characteristics
As the Hygenhund was initially developed as a hunting dog, he will probably have a totally different temperament when hunting to when he is at home. They are very obedient and loyal dogs, energetic too, but affectionate in the home.
When associating with children, the Hygenhund can be protective, playful and loving, especially if he is socialised with the children from a young age.
When trained and socialised, the Hygenhund is a calm, stoic dog.
Because of his hunting capabilities, the Hygenhund is an intelligent hound, who will respond well to training routines.
A scent hound used to hunt hares and foxes.
The Hygenhund will be loving and loyal towards those he lives with, but can be quite wary of strangers. He may become aggressive to any stranger who approaches him.
This happy, energetic lively dog likes to stay busy. He is independent too and can become very possessive about his toys and food bowl.
Hygen Hound: Behaviour
This dog only moderately tolerates solitude, preferring interaction and guidance from his owner.
Usually very obedient, the Hygenhund will be loyal and respond to your training techniques, providing you use positive training methods. Once this dog understands a command, he will remember it.
This breed needs lots of attention from his owner, otherwise he will become very vocal. In normal circumstances though, there is some barking, but not constantly.
As a scent hound, the Hygenhund needs a fenced yard. He may well give chase if he picks up an attractive scent when out walking.
This dog will certainly need lots of exercise to tire him out, otherwise destructive behaviours may result.
Not a greedy dog providing he receives a high-quality food product to meet his dietary requirements.
As an alert dog, the Hygenhund will bark to let you know if someone is trying to enter your home, or if a stranger is approaching. As a protective breed, he will also defend his home and family.
Training a Hygen Hound
Usually very obedient, the Hygenhund will be loyal and respond to your training techniques, providing you use positive training methods. Once this dog understands a command, he will remember it.
Hygen Hound: Lifestyle
Not the perfect choice for a dog breed to live in a flat. He needs space and a yard as a minimum.
As a dog that lives to hunt, the Hygenhund certainly has high exercise requirements. A brisk daily walk is needed and a large outside space where he can run freely. He can exercise for long periods of time without tiring and has boundless stamina.
As a medium sized sporting dog, he will travel happily in the rear of a car if going for a day’s hunting. Not recommended for travelling on public transport.
Breed compatibility Hygen Hound
When the Hygenhund is around cats, supervision is needed, as this breed has a high prey drive.
Very good around other dogs, especially when socialised together.
The Hygenhund is a loyal and protective playmate around children.
This dog is more suited to an owner who will take him hunting frequently. He can be a companion pet, but isn’t a lap dog.
Not the ideal choice of pet for a first time dog owner. He needs a master to show the dog who is the leader in the pack.
Hygen Hound: Purchase price
The initial purchase price for a Hygenhund puppy is between £600 to £800. In addition, monthly costs to maintain one of these dogs will be between £100 to £120 for food, vet bills, and pet insurance.
Hygen Hound: Shedding
Average
A seasonal shedder.
Hygen Hound: Grooming
With his thick, shiny coat, the Hygenhund is fairly easy to groom. His coat will look groomed with brushing several times a week.
Hygen Hound: Health
In the main, the Hygenhund is fairly healthy. Its life expectancy is between 11 and 13 years.
Certainly a strong dog with tremendous stamina.
This dog will have no issues in higher temperatures.
Very good in cooler climates, especially when hunting over many difficult terrains, in all weathers such as in his native Norway.
It’s important to monitor this dog, to ensure he doesn’t gain too much weight. This is very important once his working life comes to an end and his lifestyle is more sedentary.
- Canine hip dysplasia
- Sensitivity to anaesthesia
- Allergies
- Gastric dilation
- Bloat
- Von Willebrand’s disease
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