Description written by: Paul Smith
Although
known world-wide by an English name, the Bloodhound is nonetheless a Belgian. It is,
in fact, the Saint Hubert, the great pack hound raised in the Ardennes since the beginning
of the Middle Ages,and preserved and selectively bred by the British after the eleventh
century. It was than that it was given the name Bloodhound..In 1553, Dr..
Johannes Caius, the physician and canine expert, gave this explanation of the name:
'It is well known that [Bloodhounds] follow their prey not only while alive, but also
after death when they have caught the scent of blood.' However, this interpretation
has been contested: some believe that 'blood' signifies a pure'bred dog or a nobleman's
dog, much as 'blood horse' refers to a thoroughbred. Whatever the derivation of the
name, William the Conqueror valued the animal enough to decide that on his lands, other
breeds of dogs must have three toes amputated so as not to compete with the Bloodhound for
game..
Powerful and solid, the Bloodhound moves with great dignity. The head with
its wrinkled brow and distinctive jowls, its long ears and drooping eyes resembles the
basset Hound's. But the Bloodhound's expression is more solemn. Its skull is
long and narrow, and the occiput well developed. forming one of the Bloodhound's more
noticeable features. Endowed with the keenest sense of smell of any domestic animal,
It is reputed to be the best of all trackers.
The Bloodhound of today though still the best tracker of all animals has evolved into
one of the best family pets.. There love for human companionship is incomparable to all
other dog breeds. No animal will ever fit into a family better, if you can handle giving
up the living room couch.
For more information on Bloodhounds, please visit our web site at www.911rescue.org or call us at
1-870-239-8724 - SEARCH AND
RESCUE - PARAGOULD, AR.
