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Barak Hound
Hound breed from Bosnia and Herzegovina
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Barak Hound
The Barak Hound is a medium-sized, rough-coated scent hound originating from Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is classified in the Hound group and is known for its distinctive tricolor coat. The breed is described as energetic, intelligent, alert, independent, and courageous. Its energy level is rated high (5 out of 5), while trainability is moderate (3 out of 5). Grooming needs are low (2 out of 5), and shedding is moderate (3 out of 5). The Barak Hound is moderately suitable for families with children (3 out of 5) and generally gets along with other dogs (3 out of 5). It is not well-suited for apartment living (2 out of 5). Adult males and females typically weigh between 17 and 25 kg and stand 51 to 56 cm tall. The estimated lifespan is 12 to 14 years. Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Barak Hound at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginBosnia and Herzegovina
Lifespan12–14 years
Male weight17–25 kilogram
Female weight17–25 kilogram
Male height51–56 centimetre
Female height51–56 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Barak Hound, also known as the Bosnian Coarse-haired Hound, is a breed with roots in the Balkans, specifically Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is descended from local hounds and was developed for hunting wild boar and other game in mountainous terrain. The breed's history is tied to its working role as a scent hound, adapted to the rugged landscape of its homeland. The exact timeline of its development is not clearly documented, but it is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) as the Bosnian Coarse-haired Hound (Bosanski Oštrodlaki Gonič – Barak). Recognition by other registries varies, and the breed's history outside its region of origin is less well-known. The Barak Hound's rough, coarse coat and tricolor pattern are distinctive features that likely evolved to suit its environment and hunting purpose.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
17–25 kilogramAdult weight51–56 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesRough, CoarseCoat colorsTricolorRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Energeticintelligentalertindependentcourageous
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Barak Hound-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 5
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Growth chart
Barak Hound puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight17–25 kilogramAdult female weight17–25 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Barak Hound?
The Barak Hound is a medium-sized breed. Adult males and females typically weigh between 17 and 25 kg and stand 51 to 56 cm tall at the shoulder. The estimated lifespan is 12 to 14 years.
What is the temperament of a Barak Hound?
The breed is described as energetic, intelligent, alert, independent, and courageous. Individual dogs may vary, but these traits are commonly associated with the breed.
How much exercise does a Barak Hound need?
The Barak Hound has a high energy level (rated 5 out of 5), so it requires substantial daily exercise. It was bred for hunting in mountainous terrain, so activities like long walks, runs, or hiking are recommended.
What are the grooming requirements for a Barak Hound?
Grooming needs are low (rated 2 out of 5). The coat is rough and coarse, and shedding is moderate (rated 3 out of 5). Regular brushing to remove loose hair and occasional baths should suffice.
Is the Barak Hound good for families or apartment living?
The breed has moderate suitability for families with children (rated 3 out of 5) and generally gets along with other dogs (rated 3 out of 5). However, it is not well-suited for apartment living (rated 2 out of 5) due to its high energy and need for space.
Where does the Barak Hound originate from?
The Barak Hound originates from Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is descended from local hounds in the Balkans and was developed for hunting wild boar and game in mountainous terrain.
Is the Barak Hound recognized by major kennel clubs?
Recognition status varies by registry. The breed is recognized by the FCI as the Bosnian Coarse-haired Hound. Recognition by other registries may differ, so it is best to check with specific organizations.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.