| Training | |
| Sensitivity to strangers | |
| Affection for family | |
| Suitable for first-time owners | |
| Ease of grooming | |
| Energy level |
Contents
Let’s take a closer look at the Magyar Agar, and see all the characteristics and curiosities associated with this hound, also known as Hungarian Hound or Hungarian Greyhound.
Magyar Agar: Origins
Hound and lebrel dogs appeared for the first time in ancient Egypt and, since then, they have been kept practically as equals. In particular, it is known that the Hungarian Greyhound arrived in Western Europe with the same physical characteristics and the behavior we know today.
The Magyars, who in fact were hunters, took them with them and introduced them to the conquered territory of Pannonia (an ancient region between the Danubius and Sava rivers). It is said that when they left central Asia, they were carrying this precious animal with them.
Centuries went by and the Magyar Agar became a typical dog in central and Eastern Europe, without exhibiting many changes. It remained being used as a hunting dog, in particular it was very fit for hunting bunnies and foxes. In the modern age, these specimens, famous for their speed, became the protagonists in dog tracks all over the world.
In the 19th century, it was crossed with the English Greyhound to give it more speed, although its appearance remains the same. Nowadays, it is a common dog breed in Romania and Hungary, but it is less popular outside of these countries. It still is used as a hunting dog and with few rivals, with respect to races.
Magyar Agar: Characteristics
As its name indicates, this dog was included by the FCI in group 10: it is registered as a short-haired Sighthound, and its body must always be light, fast and agile.
From all the breeds it is related to, it is one of the largest ones: some specimens reach up to 28 inches (70 cm) at the withers and they weigh between 44 and 66 lb (20 and 30 kg). It is a tall, strong, but slim dog. Any other breed with a similar height would weigh double or triple its weight.
The Magyar Agar has the characteristic body of hounds:
- Long and triangular head,
- Dark and small eyes,
- Long and muscular neck,
- Long, slim and very elastic legs,
- Slim body, deep chest that contrasts with a small waist.
It has 2 traits that differentiate it from other similar breeds. Its ears fall to the front when it is alert and, in winter, it has a different hair. Despite being a short-haired dog, during the cold months its hair grows to protect it from low temperatures.
Magyar Agar: Temperament
This beautiful dog shares its character with other hounds it is related to. As all hounds, the Magyar Agar is affectionate, brave and hard-working. It becomes really attached to its family, but it may be distrustful with strangers. Despite this, it is not recommended as a guard dog. It is smart and of simple taste, but it is not excessive when it shows affection and gratitude. On the contrary, it has an energetic but calm character. It needs plenty of exercise and, although it loves to run in the field, it will get used to living in the city quite easily; as long as you take it out for a walk at least 3 times a day. Bear in mind that, inside the house, it is absolutely easy to manage, calm and obedient.
When it hunts or competes, it shows all its speed and determination. We are talking about a canine breed that is smart and easy to train, it loves to work in its natural habitat. It chases its prey with its outstanding sight more than with its sense of smell. For this reason, it is better to avoid games where objects are thrown, like sticks or balls, since these could be too stressful for it.
Magyar Agar: Health and Needed Care
This animal is healthy and has no hereditary diseases. However, due to its size, it is possible that it suffers from typical conditions in large dogs. For example, these may include stomach torsion and elbow or hip dysplasia. These are the most common health problems.
However, to look after its health, regular visits to the vet and required vaccination will be enough. The fact that it does not suffer from hereditary diseases does not make it immune to other health issues. These must be prevented and controlled correctly.
If you take your Magyar Agar for a walk in the countryside, or to a park, remember to control its coat and the paws when you come back home, in order to detect any debris, splinters or other residue. Pay attention to ticks and fleas.
The Hungarian Greyhound seems to be just another hound breed, but, as you may have seen, it has many qualities that set it apart from all the others. It is truly a beautiful and interesting dog, with a long history and unique and impressive traits.
Magyar Agar: Price, Breeders, and Puppies for Sale
Avoid pet stores or breeders who offer many canine breeds. It is important to contact a renowned breeder.
Being a scarce breed, the cost of a Magyar Agar puppy with pedigree from a respected breeder may easily exceed 1100 dollars, or 900 English pounds.
Always remember to ask for pedigree papers, that is otherwise fundamental. It allows you to verify the dog breed’s purity. An animal with pedigree has certain characteristics that differentiate it from the rest.
Now that we have cleared all doubts, you can go and find your new 4-legged friend, who is surely waiting for you.
In addition to the Magyar Agar, there are other types of sighthounds recognized:
Long or wavy sighthounds:
- Borzoi (Russian Sighthound)
- Afghan Hound
- Saluki Hound
Wirehaired sighthounds:
- Irish wolfhound
- Scottish Greyhound (Deerhound)
Short-haired sighthounds:
- Azawakh (African Greyhound)
- Spanish Greyhound
- Greyhound
- Polish Greyhound
- Magyar agár (Hungarian Greyhound)
- Miniature Italian Greyhound
- Sloughi (Arabian Greyhound)
- Whippet
