Hound Group: Listed By Popularity
Specialized Hunting Companions
↓ Skip directly to Hound BreedsHound breeds were developed for their exceptional tracking abilities, divided into scent hounds that follow odors and sight hounds that pursue by vision. Known for their determination and specialized skills, these dogs excel in hunting and make unique companions.
Key Hound Characteristics:
- Remarkable scenting or sighting abilities
- Independent nature with strong prey drive
- Varied energy levels from couch-loving to highly active
Ideal For:
These specialized dogs suit owners who appreciate their hunting heritage. While some can adapt to family life, their strong instincts make them better suited for
experienced owners who understand their unique needs.
Understanding Breed Popularity:
A breed's popularity ranking often reflects its availability. More common hounds like Beagles (#7), typically have more breeders than rare breeds like Otterhounds (#196).
Browse Hound Breeds By Popularity (#6-#165):
Size Range: The lower end of each height/weight range represents typical female measurements, while the higher end reflects male averages.
Dachshund
Miniature | Standard
Smooth | Wire-haired | Long-haired
Origin: Germany
Purpose: Hunt Badgers
Height: 5-6" | 8-9"
Weight: >11 | 16-32 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #6
Learn More
Beagle
Origin: England
Purpose: Hunt small game
Height: < 13" | 13-17"
Weight: < 20 | 20-30 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #7
Learn More
Basset Hound
Origin: France
Purpose: Track small game
Height: Up to 15 inches
Weight: 40-65 lbs
Energy: 2/5
AKC Popularity: #34
Learn More
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Origin: Southern Africa
Purpose: Hunt lions/Protection
Height: 24-27"
Weight: 70-80 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #43
Learn More
Whippet
Origin: England
Purpose: Rabbit Coursing
Height: 18-22"
Weight: 25-40 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #50
Learn More
Blood Hound
Origin: Belgium
Purpose: Tracking Dog
Height: 23-27"
Weight: 80-110 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #58
Learn More
Irish Wolfhound
Origin: Ireland
Purpose: Hunt wolves
Height: 30-34"
Weight: 105-140 | 120-180 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #76
Learn More
Basenji
Origin: Congo
Purpose: Flush game
Height: 15-17"
Weight: 20-24 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #80
Learn More
Borzoi
Origin: Russia
Purpose: Hunt wolves
Height: 26-32"
Weight: 60-105 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #102
Learn More
Afghan Hound
Origin: Afghanistan
Purpose: Hunt gazelle
Height: 25-27"
Weight: 50-60 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #110
Learn More
Greyhound
Origin: Egypt
Purpose: Hunting companion
Height: 27-30"
Weight: 60-70 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #118
Learn More
Norwegian Elkhound
Origin: Norway
Purpose: Hunt moose
Height: 19.5-20.5"
Weight: 48-55 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #124
Learn More
Bluetick Coonhound
Origin: United States
Purpose: Hunt raccoons, bears...
Height: 21-27"
Weight: 45-80 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #137
Learn More
Saluki
Origin: Middle East
Purpose: Gazelle hunter
Height: 23-28"
Weight: 40-65 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #141
Learn More
Redbone Coonhound
Origin: United States
Purpose: Track bears, cougars...
Height: 21-27"
Weight: 45-70 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #144
Learn More
Black & Tan Coonhound
Origin: United States
Purpose: Hunt raccoons & other game
Height: 23-27"
Weight: 65-110 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #151
Learn More
Treeing Walker Coonhound
Origin: United States
Purpose: Hunt raccoons
Height: 20-27"
Weight: 50-70 lbs
Energy: 5/5
AKC Popularity: #152
Learn More
Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen
Origin: France
Purpose: Hunt small game
Height: 13-15"
Weight: 25-40 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #155
Learn More
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Origin: Portugal
Purpose: Flush rabbits
Height: 8-12"
Weight: 9-13 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #157
Learn More
Scottish Deerhound
Origin: Scotland
Purpose: Hunt deer
Height: 28-32+"
Weight: 75-95 | 85-110 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #165
Learn More