Bosnian Broken-Haired Hound - Barak

Bosnian Broken-Haired Hound – Barak

The Bosnian Broken-Haired Hound, or Barak, is a robust and courageous scenthound originating from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Known for its distinct shaggy, weather-resistant coat and unique personality, this medium-sized breed is both a persistent hunter and a loyal family companion. While friendly and playful with children, their high energy levels and strong prey drive require active owners and consistent training. They typically live 12 to 15 years and require minimal grooming to maintain their low-shedding coat. Prospective owners should also consider key breed-specific health and costs before bringing one home.

Breed Group

Hound Dogs

Country of Origin

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Breed Size

Medium

AKC Recognition

No

FCI Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1954

Family dog

Excellent

9 / 10

Good with kids

Excellent

9 / 10

First-time owner

Good

7 / 10

Apartment dog

Good

6 / 10

Yard need

Highly Recommended

2 / 10

Can be left alone

Not Recommended

1 / 10

What Do Owners Want to Know?

Are Bosnian Broken-Haired Hound - Barak good family dogs?

The Bosnian Broken-Haired Hound is a loyal and affectionate companion that is generally friendly and playful with children. However, their high energy levels and strong prey drive mean they are best suited for active families who can provide consistent training and supervision during playtime.

Family dog: 9 / 10

Are Bosnian Broken-Haired Hound - Barak good with kids?

Bosnian Broken-Haired Hounds are generally friendly and good-natured with children, making them suitable family companions. Due to their background as a persistent hunting breed, they possess high energy levels and a strong prey drive, so play should be supervised. Early socialization and consistent training are important to ensure they remain gentle and well-behaved around younger family members.

Good with kids: 9 / 10

Are Bosnian Broken-Haired Hound - Barak good for first-time owners?

Bosnian Broken-Haired Hounds can be suitable for first-time owners who are active and committed to providing consistent, firm guidance. While intelligent and loyal, their independent nature and high energy levels require a dedicated approach to training and exercise to manage their stubborn streak and hunting instincts. Novices should be prepared to meet their significant daily activity needs to ensure a well-behaved companion.

First-time owner: 7 / 10

Are Bosnian Broken-Haired Hound - Barak good apartment dogs?

Bosnian Broken-Haired Hounds are adaptable, but they are generally not considered "excellent" apartment dogs due to high energy and vocal tendencies. While they are loyal companions that thrive on human interaction, their exercise needs must be met with daily walks and indoor play.

Apartment dog: 6 / 10

Do Bosnian Broken-Haired Hound - Barak need a yard?

A fenced yard is highly recommended for a Bosnian Broken-Haired Hound, as they are high-energy scenthounds that require significant daily activity. While they can adapt to various living situations if their physical and mental needs are met through vigorous exercise, a secure outdoor space is the ideal environment for them to safely play and satisfy their natural tracking instincts.

Yard need: 2 / 10

Can Bosnian Broken-Haired Hound - Barak be left alone?

Bosnian Broken-Haired Hounds are social hunting dogs that can tolerate being left alone for moderate periods, but they are prone to boredom and destructive behaviors if isolated for too long. They thrive best in active households where they receive consistent companionship and mental stimulation to prevent excessive barking or anxiety.

Can be left alone: 1 / 10

Are Bosnian Broken-Haired Hound - Barak good with cats?

Bosnian Broken-Haired Hounds generally coexist well with cats, especially when raised together from a young age. While their hunting background can trigger a chase instinct, early socialization and consistent training usually result in a friendly, harmonious household. Always supervise initial introductions to ensure a safe and positive relationship.

Good with cats: 9 / 10

Are Bosnian Broken-Haired Hound - Barak aggressive?

The Bosnian Broken-Haired Hound is not naturally aggressive and is known for being friendly and playful. While they possess a strong-willed hunting nature and can be alert watchdogs, they are typically devoted and gentle family companions. Early socialization and consistent training are key to managing their energy and ensuring they remain well-behaved around people and other animals.

Aggression tendency: 4 / 10

Are Bosnian Broken-Haired Hound - Barak high-energy dogs?

Bosnian Broken-Haired Hounds are medium to high-energy dogs that require substantial daily physical and mental stimulation to stay happy. Originally bred for persistent hunting, they thrive on vigorous exercise and outdoor activities like long walks, hikes, or tracking games. Without a consistent outlet for their energy, they can become frustrated, bored, and may develop destructive behaviors or excessive barking.

Energy level: 8 / 10

How much exercise does a Bosnian Broken-Haired Hound - Barak need?

Bosnian Broken-Haired Hounds are high-energy scenthounds that require approximately 60 minutes of daily exercise to stay healthy and prevent destructive behavior. Ideal activities include long, brisk walks, jogging, or tracking games that engage their natural hunting instincts. Providing ample mental stimulation alongside physical activity is essential for this intelligent and persistent breed.

Exercise need: 8 / 10

Can Bosnian Broken-Haired Hound - Barak live in hot weather?

Bosnian Broken-Haired Hounds possess a shaggy, weather-resistant double coat that provides some protection, but they are generally best suited for moderate climates. They can tolerate average warm temperatures provided they have access to shade and fresh water. Owners should avoid strenuous hunting or exercise during the hottest parts of the day to prevent overheating and ensure their comfort.

Hot weather tolerance: 5 / 10

Can Bosnian Broken-Haired Hound - Barak live in cold weather?

Bosnian Broken-Haired Hounds are moderately resilient to cold weather thanks to their shaggy, weather-resistant coats. While they handle chilly conditions better than short-haired breeds, owners should still monitor them for signs of discomfort in freezing temperatures and provide a warm, dry environment after outdoor excursions to ensure their safety.

Cold weather tolerance: 7 / 10

Are Bosnian Broken-Haired Hound - Barak banned in apartments or rentals?

Bosnian Broken-Haired Hounds may frequently face restrictions due to their size and vocal nature as scenthounds. Always verify individual landlord policies regarding size and activity levels.

Rental restriction risk: 9 / 10

Vet Insights

The Bosnian Broken-Haired Hound is generally a robust and healthy breed. However, as with many active scenthounds, it is important to monitor for joint issues such as hip dysplasia and ensure they receive regular ear cleanings.

Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
VeterinarianResearcherDog breed specialist
Verified