Cretan Hound

The Cretan Warren Hound or Kritikos Lagonikos is a breed of dog native to the Greek island of Crete, where it has been used for centuries as a hunting dog. It is a medium-sized, agile and hardy dog with a distinctive coat and a friendly temperament.

General details

The Kritikos Lagonikos is a medium-sized dog, weighing between 15 and 25 kilos. In addition, males measure between 48 and 55 cm in height at the withers, while females measure between 46 and 53 cm. The average life expectancy of this breed is 12 to 14 years. They are not recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).

Breed history in brief

The Kritikos Lagonikos is a breed of dog originating from the Greek island of Crete, where it has been used for centuries as a hunting dog. Its name means "Cretan hunting dog" in Greek. The exact history of the breed is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated from ancient hunting dog breeds of the region. The Kritikos Lagonikos is a dog highly valued by the hunters of Crete because of its ability to hunt hares and other small animals. It is also used as a companion dog and as a property guardian. Today, the Kritikos Lagonikos is still a highly valued breed in Crete and other parts of Greece, where it is used as a hunting dog and as a pet. The breed is not well known outside Greece.

Breed characteristics

The Kritikos Lagonikos is a medium-sized dog with a distinct and attractive appearance. It has a head proportional to the body, with triangular and erect ears. Its eyes are dark and have a lively and intelligent gaze. The tail is long and curved towards the tip. Its coat is short, dense and shiny, with a hard and resistant texture. The most common colors are brown, gray and white, often with black spots or markings all over the body. Kritikos Lagonikos require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them healthy and happy. They are intelligent dogs and easy to train, but can be stubborn and need a firm and consistent leader. They are also protective and alert dogs, which makes them good watchdogs.

Common health problems

Diseases that can affect Kritikos Lagonikos include respiratory diseases, such as canine infectious tracheobronchitis and pneumonia. They can also suffer from gastrointestinal diseases, such as gastroenteritis and inflammatory bowel disease. Other common health problems in this breed include allergies, dermatological problems and hip dysplasia.