Hungarian Greyhound
Summary
The Hungarian Greyhound — _Magyar Agár_ in its original language — is a sighthound of exceptional resistance and endurance, distinct from the Greyhound by its more robust frame, thicker skin, and greater cold resistance. Developed on the Hungarian plains (_puszta_) to run alongside its owners' horses during long hunts, it has greater stamina and better performance at medium and long distances than the Greyhound. It is also recognized as an excellent guard dog, an unusual characteristic among sighthounds.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Large
- Height (male)
- 65–70 cm
- Height (female)
- 62–67 cm
- Weight (male)
- 22–31 kg
- Weight (female)
- 20–28 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Short, dense, thick, and smooth; thicker undercoat in cold climates — adaptation to Central European winter
- Common Colors
- All colors except black and tan, blue and white, brown, wolf grey, tricolor — these are disqualifying in the FCI standard
Temperament & Personality
The Magyar Agár is described in the UKC standard as "reserved by nature, but not timid; sensible, intelligent, and faithful." Unlike other sighthounds, it has a pronounced guarding instinct, being vigilant and a good alert dog. With the family it is loyal, affectionate, and active; with strangers it is naturally reserved but not aggressive. It requires early socialization to avoid excessive timidity. It is energetic and needs regular exercise to maintain emotional balance.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- High
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 60–90 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Low to moderate
- Shedding
- Moderate
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 8–12 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- And progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) in some bloodlines
- Documented cases of epilepsy
- Generally very healthy (working breed)
- Like all sighthounds
- Sensitive to anesthesia
- Thyroid disease
- Recommended Health Tests
- Eye examination
- Hip evaluation
- The North American Magyar Agár Association recommends mandatory health tests for all breeding stock
- Thyroid analysis
Compatibility
- With Children
- Good
- With Other Dogs
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Acceptable
