What Breeds Are Considered Hounds?

We've all heard about their excellent sense of smell, floppy, furry ears and dreamy big eyes - but beyond that, what exactly makes puppies in the hound group so special? Don't worry, we're here to give you some insider information on the incredible breeds that make up this group.

What Makes a Dog a Hound?

According to hound experts, hounds are generally classified as olfactory hounds or sight hounds. However, since almost all hounds are bred for hunting, they all have an excellent sense of smell or impeccable eyesight.

They're a diverse group, though - some are slow and steady (with evil-sensitive noses), while others are wind-fast and adept at spotting small prey, or have endless stamina that allows them to follow scents Miles are over.

Almost all hounds are a bit rowdy, with impressive howls (called bays) that are sure to make them stand out...especially to your not-so-happy neighbors. But don't let that completely stop you from appreciating these breeds - with proper training and attention, these quirks can be kept under control.

Plus their good traits like patience, friendliness, loyalty and reliability more than make up for it! Here are some particularly cute hound breeds we want to introduce to you:

1. Beagle

Yes, there's no denying it - Beagles are one of the cutest breeds of them all! These dogs were originally bred for hunting, but they can also make great companions and loving family members. Happy, fun, and loyal, this breed can be lemon, red and white or tricolor, with large eyes and long, soft ears.

Make sure to give your beagle plenty of playtime, as they are curious puppies and are sure to run into some trouble if you don't keep them entertained. You also need to keep an eye on them, as they will follow their noses everywhere - even in unsafe situations (get out of your yard, onto the street, etc.).

2. Basset Hound

While known for those drooping, affectionate eyes and long, long ears, these hounds have a lot more to offer! Originally bred for rabbit hunting, they have an incredible sense of smell, only slightly inferior to the Bloodhound. Their long ears are also useful, collecting scents from the ground and delivering them to their noses.

These dogs make excellent family pets and are generally laid back and cute in the home, although they can get a little pissed off when they're looking for a really interesting scent. They're also known to be a bit, er, sound - so make sure you don't leave them outside unattended for too long - your neighbors may not like it.

3. Saluki

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Saluki is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, used as hunting dogs by kings, pharaohs and other important figures of the past. Considered hunting dogs, they are agile and have impeccable eyesight.

They are also very elegant, with long limbs and soft eyes, giving them a dignified and regal look (another reason they are so popular with royalty).

Salukis can adapt to most situations, as long as they get enough exercise, playtime, and hugs from those they admire. You'll also want to brush your silky bristles once a week to keep them looking their best.

4. American English Hound

The American English Coonhound is used to hunt raccoons and foxes. They were first brought to the United States by European settlers in the 17th century and were originally called "Virginia Hounds."

Best for more experienced dog owners, this breed is friendly and fun, but can also be a bit stubborn when training - and the bark can be a little loud and boisterous for some.

Looking beautiful and elegant, their coats are available in red and white hooks, blue and white hooks, tricolor hooks, red and white, black or white.

5. Dachshund

The small but mighty dachshund is an olfactory hound originally bred to hunt badgers (because they can burrow into dens), rabbits and foxes - and sometimes they are even used to track wild boars.

They're not designed for strenuous activity, but they're smart, independent, and lovable, making them a fun addition to the family, although they require some training and discipline to keep them in check.

Dachshunds are a diverse breed with three coats—long, smooth, and stiff—in standard or miniature sizes.

6. English Foxhound

English Foxhounds were bred to hunt foxes (duh), they are scent hounds and love to run around outside with other dogs - that means when they have a large fenced yard where they can exercise and play when they are happiest.

This breed is known for their stamina, and they can trot outdoors for hours without resting. They are also known for their loud, distinctive bark. In fact, experts say this breed is so group-oriented and driven by instinct that they're not generally considered house pets and are generally better suited to hunters who have many at a time and take them away on a regular basis.

7. Bloodhound

Perhaps the most famous of the entire hound group, the Bloodhound is by far the most accomplished smeller. This super-intelligent breed was bred to hunt deer and wild boar and was perfected in Western Europe nearly a thousand years ago.

Bloodhounds are especially gifted at finding missing persons, which is why they have earned the nickname "Detective Hounds." Once bloodhounds are scented, it's nearly impossible to distract them -- making them essential for law enforcement searches.

Their appearance also sets them apart, with plenty of weight (they can weigh up to 110 pounds), sturdy legs, lovely wrinkled faces, long drooping ears and warm, deep-set eyes. From black and tan to red, this breed is definitely not to be missed.

As part of the family, Bloodhounds are gentle and friendly, and as pack animals they love to spend time with their favorite people - including kids!

8. Basenji

Although the Basenji are slightly different from other hunting dogs, they are considered part of the sight hound group because of their keen eyesight and fast speed when hunting. Originating in central Africa many years ago (they are also one of the oldest breeds), the Basengis are known for their unique running style, with strides that look like a small racehorse.

Unlike other retrievers, this breed doesn't bark or bark - although they do make weird yordle-like sounds when trying to express themselves. These dogs are fairly small, with a short coat, curly tails and expressive faces.

9. Rhodesian Ridgeback

The Rhodesian Ridgeback from the southern African region (known for the stripes of hair growing back on its coat) was originally bred to "fight and confuse" lions. They are also good at fending off leopards and baboons, hunting antelope, and protecting their homes for humans.

Not a first-time dog owner, this breed is very independent and definitely needs a steady, experienced hand when it comes to training. Daily exercise and mental stimulation are essential for this breed—if you keep them entertained, they'll add a wonderful touch to the family.

10. Greyhound

A popular family pet, these hounds are considered the "sprint champions" of the dog kingdom. They were originally bred to hunt hares, foxes and deer - and considering they can reach speeds of up to 45 miles per hour, they excel at those!

Not only is this breed fast, but it also makes a great companion and family pet. They tend to be suave in temperament, and their elegant and elegant appearance only adds to their attractiveness.

Looking to add a greyhound to your family? Consider adopting a "retired" greyhound instead of a puppy - they usually need a loving home and can really fit in most situations (they even love apartments!) and offer never-ending love and loyalty to family members.

11. Otter Hound

The Otter Hound is an English olfactory hound that is considered a "vulnerable native breed" by the American Kennel Club, as there are only about 600 of the breed worldwide.

These puppies need a lot of exercise, so they're perfect for families that live in the country (or have a large backyard). They also love to swim, so take them in the water whenever possible - just expect things to get a little messy. They're usually like this, whether tracking mud or drooling, so clean freaks may not be a good fit for this breed.

12. Harrier

This breed is considered very rare, so you may never have seen them, although they were recognized by the AKC in 1885.

Harriers look a bit like terriers and are thought to have first appeared to hunt hares in England around the 1200s.

They are a friendly and outgoing bunch, although they sometimes have to be observed around smaller animals as they may see them as prey (oops!). They are considered to get along well with their families - just make sure you don't let them get bored.

While these breeds tend to be more suitable for experienced dog owners who are ready and willing to train them, they are sure to bring a lot of love and affection to any family.