Description of a Russian Hound.

Scenthounds have been used in Russia as far back as any European country, probably before the Middle Ages. In fact, the Russians feel that their indigenous Russian Hound was crossed with the laikas many years ago to obtain the smaller ears, oblique eyes, thick grayish undercoat and more wedge-shaped head. By the early 16th century, writings confirmed the presence of fine hounds with "loud and melodious baying" that were used for hunting hare.

Although the Russian Hound has changed gradually over its long history through the introduction of European hounds and selective breeding, it maintains many of its earlier qualities. It is the hound most suited to the Russian hunt, as well as the country's climate, and hunting with hounds is the Russian national sport.

In the early 20th century, the Russian Hound had many minor regional differences based on its locale or breeder, and was often named for these places or people. The first Soviet Cyno-logical Congress adopted a standard for the breed in 1925, based on the dogs bred in the Kostroma region. Soon regional distinctions were obliterated, and today the Russian Hound is one of the most populous breeds in the country, with many thousands registered. These dogs are slightly longer than tall and thick set, with a quiet, even temperament.