The Barak is a medium-sized hound with a distinctive, shaggy, and weather-resistant coat. Their expression is serious and determined, reflecting their hunting heritage.

18-22 inches (46-56 cm) at the shoulder

35-55 pounds (16-25 kg)

Long, dense, coarse, and shaggy outer coat with a thick undercoat

Wheaten yellow, reddish-yellow, earthy grey, or dark grey, often with white markings on the head, chest, and feet

Long and moderately broad, with a pronounced stop

Large, oval, and dark brown

Medium-length, set high, and hanging close to the head

Thick at the base, tapering towards the tip, and carried in a slight curve

The Barak is known for its tenacity and courage as a hunter, balanced by a calm and even-tempered nature at home. They are loyal and affectionate with their families.

Forms strong bonds with their family and are deeply devoted.

Bred to track and confront game, showing fearlessness and determination.

Possesses a strong work ethic and will follow a scent tirelessly.

Generally calm and well-behaved indoors, especially when properly exercised.

Quick learners, though their independent nature can sometimes make training a challenge.

Generally patient and tolerant with children, especially when raised with them.

The Barak is best suited for active individuals or families who can provide ample exercise and have experience with independent dog breeds. They thrive in environments where their hunting instincts can be channeled.

Good with children when properly socialized.

Relatively rare, making them difficult to find.

The ideal owner for a Bosnian Coarse-Haired Hound is someone active, experienced with dogs, and ideally, interested in hunting or scent work. They need a home with space to roam and a commitment to consistent training and socialization.

The Barak's grooming needs are moderate, focusing on maintaining their coarse coat. They require a balanced diet and benefit from a living environment with ample space.

Brush weekly with a stiff-bristled brush to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Bathe only when necessary.

Moderate shedding, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes.

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Divide their daily food intake into two meals to prevent bloat.

Ideally suited to homes with access to a securely fenced yard. They can adapt to apartment living if provided with sufficient daily exercise.

Check and clean their ears regularly to prevent infections.

Trim nails regularly, usually every few weeks, to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.

Training a Barak requires patience and consistency due to their independent streak. They need significant daily exercise to satisfy their hunting instincts and high energy levels.

Baraks are intelligent but can be independent thinkers, making training somewhat challenging. Early socialization and positive reinforcement methods, emphasizing consistency and reward-based training, are crucial. They respond well to firm, but gentle leadership. Avoid harsh training techniques, as they can lead to stubbornness. Focus on keeping training sessions engaging and varied to maintain their interest.

This breed has high energy levels and requires substantial daily exercise. Long walks, runs, or hikes are essential, and providing them with a securely fenced yard where they can run freely is ideal. Mental stimulation is equally important; scent work, tracking games, and interactive toys can help keep them engaged and prevent boredom. Without sufficient exercise, they may become restless and potentially destructive.

Expose them to various people, dogs, and environments from a young age.

Use treats, praise, and play to motivate them.

Maintain a consistent training routine and rules.

Engage their natural scenting abilities with tracking games.

Ensure a secure yard, as their hunting instincts may lead them to roam.

Be prepared for their independent nature and occasional stubbornness.

The Barak is generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health conditions. Responsible breeding practices can minimize these risks.

A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis and pain.

Similar to hip dysplasia, but affecting the elbow joint.

Due to their floppy ears, they can be prone to ear infections if moisture and debris get trapped.

A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists, trapping gas and cutting off blood supply.

The Bosnian Coarse-Haired Hound, also called the Barak, has a lineage deeply rooted in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Developed in the 19th century, it is believed to be a descendant of various local hounds and possibly some sighthound influence, contributing to its speed and stamina. Bred primarily for hunting wild boar, fox, and hare across challenging, mountainous terrain, the Barak developed a weather-resistant coat and an exceptional tracking ability. The breed was officially recognized by the FCI (Federation Cynologique Internationale) in 1965 under Group 6 (Scenthounds and Related Breeds), Section 1.2 (Medium-sized Hounds). Despite facing near extinction during the Bosnian War in the 1990s, dedicated breeders worked diligently to preserve the Barak, ensuring its survival. Today, it remains relatively rare outside its native region but continues to be a valued hunting dog and companion.

Yes, they can be excellent family pets when properly trained and socialized. They are loyal and affectionate with their families, including children.

They require a significant amount of daily exercise, including long walks, runs, or hikes. Access to a securely fenced yard is also beneficial.

Training can be moderately challenging due to their independent nature. Consistency, positive reinforcement, and early socialization are key.

They are moderate shedders, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes. Regular brushing helps manage shedding.

Like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues, such as hip and elbow dysplasia and ear infections. Regular vet checkups and preventive care are important.

They are relatively rare outside of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Contacting breed-specific clubs or rescue organizations may be necessary.

They are not excessive barkers, but they will bark to alert their owners to strangers or unusual situations. Their hunting background means they may bay or howl when on a scent.

They can adapt to apartment living if provided with sufficient daily exercise and mental stimulation. However, a home with a securely fenced yard is ideal.

The average lifespan of a Barak is 12-14 years.

They can be good with other dogs if properly socialized from a young age. However, their hunting instincts may make them less tolerant of small, fast-moving animals.