Pet Wiki

Lithuanian Hound

Also called Lietuvių skalikas

A lively, hard-working hound that takes well to training and enjoys having a job to do.

SizeMedium
Weight24 to 30 kg (53 to 66 lb)1
Height48 to 60 cm (19 to 24 in)males 52 to 60 cm, females 48 to 55 cm1
CoatShort, dense coat
OriginLithuania; hounds of this type go back to the medieval Grand Duchy of Lithuania.1
Rare breedShort profile
energetic
responsive to training
capable all-round hunting hound
1

Personality what they are like

A lively, hard-working hound that takes well to training and enjoys having a job to do.1

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, dense coat

A strongly built hound with a big head, deep broad chest, long neck without loose skin, long ears with rounded tips and a long sabre-like tail. The coat is thick and short, around 3 to 5 cm long.1

Coloursblack and tan1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Lithuanian Hound. 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

High. It needs plenty of hard, regular exercise, ideally with chances to use its nose.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The short coat is easy to keep; a weekly brush keeps it tidy.1

The story where it all began

Hounds were a valued part of hunting life in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, with written mentions from the 1500s. After the Second World War only a few dozen remained, and breeders rebuilt the population, holding a first show in 1981. It was traditionally used on hare, fox and wild boar.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    The oldest known written mention of these hounds is a 1541 court case about a stolen hound.1

  2. 2

    Lithuanian hounds are mentioned in the Statutes of Lithuania of 1588.1

  3. 3

    The breed's first dedicated exhibition, in 1981, brought together 62 dogs.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The Lithuanian Hound is named after its country of origin, Lithuania. In Lithuanian, it is called 'lietuvių skalikas', which translates directly to 'Lithuanian hound'.1

Name ideas for your new friend

UosisĄžuolasGintarasRūtaVėtraSnaigėBriedisLapėŠuolisNosewiseBarkusTrackster

A day in the life told by a Lithuanian Hound

I wake to the scent of pine and damp earth. Before breakfast, I lead my human on a brisk trot through the forest. Every fallen leaf whispers a story, and I must sniff each one. A rabbit darts across the path, I give chase, tail high, until my human calls me back with a laugh. After a good run, we stop by the stream for a cool drink. Back home, I curl on the porch, watching clouds drift. In the evening, I rest my head on my human's knee, ready to do it all again tomorrow.

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

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Not recognised by the FCI or any other major kennel club. A provisional national standard was drawn up in 1966 and revised in 1983.1

How many About 150 dogs (after about 350 registered in 1987)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

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. 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

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. 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

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

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 Lithuanian Hound, and at what times?

Feed your adult Lithuanian Hound at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. For exact times, follow your dog's routine and ask your vet for a schedule that suits its needs.2

What should a Lithuanian Hound eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like grapes, raisins, chocolate, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by the ASPCA. Always check with your vet for a tailored diet.3

How often should I bathe a Lithuanian Hound?

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 hound gets very dirty or has skin issues.4 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Lithuanian Hound need brushing?

Brush your Lithuanian Hound weekly to keep its short, dense coat tidy. Pet Wiki's plan recommends every 7 days, which matches general advice for short smooth coats.14 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Lithuanian Hound's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 28 days, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for help.4 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Lithuanian Hound need?

This lively hound needs plenty of hard, regular exercise every day, ideally with chances to use its nose. Pet Wiki's plan includes daily walks and play to keep it happy and healthy.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Lithuanian Hound's teeth and ears?

Brush your Lithuanian Hound's teeth two to three times a week (daily is ideal) using dog toothpaste. Check its floppy ears weekly for moisture and dirt, and dry them gently. Never push anything into the ear canal.4 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Lithuanian Hound live?

The lifespan of a Lithuanian Hound varies. For typical expectations, ask your vet or a reputable breeder who knows the breed's history.

Is a Lithuanian Hound good with children and other pets?

Temperament varies. This hound is lively and trainable, but its compatibility with children and other pets depends on early socialization. Ask your breeder or a vet for guidance based on your dog's personality.

Can a Lithuanian Hound be left alone?

This breed's tolerance for being alone varies. As a working hound, it may need company and activity. Ask your vet or a breeder for advice on your specific dog's needs.

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.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. Lithuanian Hound - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for all fields
  2. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  3. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  4. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.