Bulgarian Scenthound

Also called Bulgarsko Gonche, Ludogorsko Gonche, Bicolor hound

A working hunting hound; sources focus on its role in the field rather than its home temperament.

Size	Medium
Height	47 to 58 cm (19 to 23 in)males 49 to 58 cm, females 47 to 58 cm1
Coat	Short, smooth
Origin	Bulgaria (Ludogorie region, northern Bulgaria)1

Rare breedShort profile

dedicated scent hunter

Bulgaria's most common smooth-haired hunting dog

easy-care smooth coat

Personality what they are like

A working hunting hound; sources focus on its role in the field rather than its home temperament.1

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, smooth

A short, close-lying smooth coat typical of Balkan hunting hounds.1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Bulgarian Scenthound. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

As a hunting scent hound it needs plenty of daily exercise and chances to follow scent.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The smooth coat needs only simple occasional brushing.1

The story where it all began

The breed comes from the Ludogorie area of northern Bulgaria and is now the most widespread smooth-coated hunting dog in the country. It belongs to the family of Balkan hounds and is related to the Greek Harehound, Serbian Hound and Transylvanian Hound.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
It is the most widely kept smooth-haired hunting dog in Bulgaria.1
2
One of its local names, Ludogorsko Gonche, refers to the Ludogorie region where it developed.1
3
Genetic research places it close to other Balkan hounds such as the Serbian Hound and Transylvanian Hound.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name "Bulgarian Scenthound" comes from its country of origin, Bulgaria, and its role as a scent hound used for hunting. It is also known as "Bulgarsko Gonche" (Bulgarian: българско гонче), where "Gonche" means hound, and "Ludogorsko Gonche" after the Ludogorie region of northern Bulgaria where it originated.1

Name ideas for your new friend

BorisMishoRadaDoraStrelaLudogorBalkanTrakiSvetlaKaraGoncheBulgarka

A day in the life told by a Bulgarian Scenthound

This morning I woke to the smell of dew and pine. My human called me for a walk, and I led her straight to the forest. I sniffed every tree, every rock, each one told a story. I found a trail and followed it for ages, my tail wagging like a flag. We stopped by a stream, and I splashed a little, then we headed home. I curled up on my bed, dreaming of tomorrow's scents.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

Bulgarian Republican Federation of Cynology (BRFK): Has a national breed standard; not listed by the FCI.1

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Blueberry and Oat Bites

These three-ingredient treats are quick to make and packed with antioxidants from blueberries and fibre from oats. They are low in fat and perfect as a training reward.

You need

100g oats
1 banana (mashed)
40g fresh blueberries (chopped)
Splash of water (as needed)

How

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
In a bowl, mix the mashed banana, oats, and chopped blueberries together.
Add splashes of water gradually until the mixture comes together into a large ball.
Roll out the mixture on a lightly floured surface to about 1-2cm thick.
Use a knife or cookie cutter to cut into shapes.
Place the shapes on a lined baking tray.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until slightly browned.
Leave to cool completely before serving.

How much: Offer one or two bites per day for a medium-sized dog. Reduce your dog's usual food portion to account for these treats.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Bulgarian Scenthound, and at what times?

Feed your Bulgarian Scenthound at least two meals a day for adults, three to four for puppies. A consistent schedule helps digestion. Check the food label for portion sizes and ask your vet for a tailored plan.2

What should a Bulgarian Scenthound eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food suited to its age and activity. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol. Always consult your vet for specific dietary advice.3

How often should I bathe a Bulgarian Scenthound?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, and general guidance recommends at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets dirty or has skin issues. Use a dog-specific shampoo.4 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Bulgarian Scenthound need brushing?

Brush your Bulgarian Scenthound weekly to remove loose hair and keep its short smooth coat healthy. This simple routine is enough for this low-maintenance breed.1 4 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Bulgarian Scenthound's nails, and how often?

Trim nails about every 28 days, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. Ask your vet or groomer to show you the proper technique.4 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Bulgarian Scenthound need?

Your Bulgarian Scenthound needs plenty of daily exercise, including walks and chances to follow scents. Aim for at least an hour of activity each day to keep it happy and healthy.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Bulgarian Scenthound's teeth and ears?

Brush your dog's teeth at least twice a week with dog toothpaste; daily is ideal. Check ears weekly and dry them gently, as floppy ears trap moisture. Never insert anything into the ear canal.4 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Bulgarian Scenthound live?

Lifespan varies for this breed; many medium-sized hounds live 10 to 14 years. For more specific information, ask your breeder or vet.

Is a Bulgarian Scenthound good with children and other pets?

As a working hunting hound, its home temperament is not well-documented. It may be good with children if socialized early, but always supervise. Ask a reputable breeder about its behavior with other pets.1

Can a Bulgarian Scenthound be left alone?

There is no specific information about being left alone. As an active hunting hound, it may not tolerate long periods without exercise. Consult your breeder or vet for advice.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.