The Bloodhound Dog

The Bloodhound dog originates from Belgium dating back to the Middle Ages. They were bred by monks at the St. Hubert monastery. At roughly the same time a similar breed appeared in Great Britain. There is speculation that both the dogs at the monastery and those in Great Britain arrived in Europe with crusaders who were returning from the Middle East. The Bloodhound dog is the oldest and largest of the scent hounds. It is believed that Bassets, Beagles, and most Spaniels have some Bloodhound in their ancestry. The Bloodhound is un-equaled in its ability to track, especially tracking human beings. Although large and perhaps intimidating to some, it is very good natured and would never attack or bite someone who it is tracking. It is never employed as police or guard dog. Unique characteristics are the deep folds of skin on face and upper lips that hang a couple of inches below its bottom jaw.