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Slovenský kopov
Hound breed from Slovakia
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Slovenský kopov
The Slovenský kopov is a medium-sized black and tan scent hound from Slovakia, known for its exceptional endurance and tenacious courage. It was bred specifically for tracking and hunting wild boar in mountainous and rugged terrain. This persistent scenthound combines intelligence with a distinctive work-focused temperament. The breed is described as courageous, energetic, intelligent, loyal, alert, and work-focused. Its coat is short and black and tan. Size estimates indicate males and females weigh 15–20 kg and stand 45–50 cm tall. Lifespan is estimated at 12–14 years. Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Slovenský kopov at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginSlovakia
Lifespan12–14 years
Male weight15–20 kilogram
Female weight15–20 kilogram
Male height45–50 centimetre
Female height45–50 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Slovenský kopov is an ancient national breed developed in Slovakia during the 1950s by crossing local hunting dogs with other European scent hounds. It was specifically bred as a versatile scenthound for tracking and hunting wild boar and deer in mountainous terrain. The breed standard was first established in 1963. The breed's origins are rooted in Slovakia, and it is classified in the Hound group. Its development focused on creating a dog with exceptional endurance and courage for hunting in rugged landscapes.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
15–20 kilogramAdult weight45–50 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesShortCoat colorsBlack and tanRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Courageousenergeticintelligentloyalalertwork-focused
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
Typically responsive to training
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 Slovenský kopov-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
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 5
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Growth chart
Slovenský kopov 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 weight15–20 kilogramAdult female weight15–20 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 Slovenský kopov?
The Slovenský kopov is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult weight for both males and females is 15–20 kg, and height is 45–50 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12–14 years.
What is the temperament of a Slovenský kopov?
The breed is described as courageous, energetic, intelligent, loyal, alert, and work-focused. Individual dogs may vary, but these traits are commonly associated with the breed.
How much exercise does a Slovenský kopov need?
The breed has a high energy score of 5 out of 5, indicating a need for substantial daily exercise. It was bred for hunting in mountainous terrain, so regular vigorous activity is important.
What are the grooming requirements?
Grooming needs are low, with a score of 2 out of 5. The short coat requires minimal brushing. Shedding is moderate, scored 3 out of 5.
Is the Slovenský kopov suitable for apartment living?
Apartment suitability is low, scored 2 out of 5. This breed is best suited to homes with access to a yard or open space due to its high energy and work-focused nature.
How does the Slovenský kopov get along with children and other dogs?
Child suitability is scored 3 out of 5, and dog compatibility is also 3 out of 5. While generally good, individual temperament varies, and early socialization is recommended.
Where does the Slovenský kopov originate from?
The breed originates from Slovakia. It was developed in the 1950s by crossing local hunting dogs with other European scent hounds, and the breed standard was established in 1963.
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.