Serbian Tricolour Hound
A rare and loyal Serbian scenthound with a striking tricolour coat, bred for hunting fox and hare.
44–55 lbsWeight
18–22 inHeight
12–14 yrsLifespan
HighEnergy
A rare and loyal Serbian scenthound with a striking tricolour coat, bred for hunting fox and hare.
The Serbian Tricolour Hound (Srpski Trobojni Gonic) is a relatively rare and distinctly Serbian breed, closely related to the Serbian Hound but set apart by its striking tricolour coat of black, white, and tan markings. While the Serbian Hound sports a bicolour pattern, the Tricolour is immediately recognizable for its bold, three-toned appearance. Though both breeds share common ancestry and were developed in the Balkans for centuries, the Serbian Tricolour Hound was officially recognized as a separate breed by the FCI in 1961.
Bred primarily for hunting fox and hare across the rugged terrain of Serbia, this hound is athletic, tireless, and possesses an extraordinary sense of smell. Despite being primarily a working dog, the Serbian Tricolour Hound is deeply loyal and affectionate with its family, making it a rewarding companion for active owners who can meet its considerable exercise needs.
Real Serbian Tricolour Hounds — browse photos showcasing their look, size, and personality.
The Serbian Tricolour Hound is an energetic, passionate hunter at heart, yet surprisingly gentle and devoted in the home. This breed bonds strongly with its family and is known for its even, stable temperament. Alert and curious by nature, it thrives when given a job to do or plenty of mental stimulation.
As a high-energy working hound, the Serbian Tricolour Hound requires substantial daily exercise to stay healthy and content. Without enough physical and mental stimulation, these dogs may become bored, restless, or destructive. A securely fenced yard is strongly recommended, as their tracking instinct can lead them to wander.
The Serbian Tricolour Hound has a short, dense, and smooth coat that is low-maintenance compared to many other breeds. The striking tricolour pattern — black saddle, white base, and tan markings — requires little more than regular brushing to stay clean and shiny. Ear care is especially important given this breed's drop ears and active outdoor lifestyle.
The Serbian Tricolour Hound is intelligent and eager to please, but its strong scenting instinct can make it easily distracted outdoors. Training is most effective when it starts early, relies on positive reinforcement, and keeps sessions short and engaging. Recall training in particular requires consistent practice due to this breed's tendency to follow its nose.
The Serbian Tricolour Hound is generally a robust and healthy breed with a lifespan of 12–14 years. Like most hounds, the primary health concerns relate to their joints, ears, and eyes. Responsible breeding practices and regular veterinary care go a long way in keeping this breed healthy for many years.
The Serbian Tricolour Hound is an excellent choice for active families or individuals with outdoor lifestyles and access to plenty of open space. It thrives with experienced dog owners who understand scent hound temperament and can provide consistent training and ample exercise. It is not an ideal fit for apartment dwellers or first-time owners looking for a low-energy companion.
As a medium-sized, high-energy working breed, the Serbian Tricolour Hound requires a nutritious, protein-rich diet to fuel its active lifestyle. Daily food portions should be adjusted based on the dog's age, weight, activity level, and the specific food's caloric content. Always provide fresh water and avoid feeding immediately before or after vigorous exercise to reduce the risk of bloat.
Bring your dog's regular food when boarding to avoid digestive upset.