Ava Williams
Shoulder height: 40 – 50 cm
Weight: 15 – 20 kg
Age: 12 – 15 years
Color: black with brown markings
Use: hunting dog
The Slovensky Kopov is a medium-sized, short-haired hunting dog that must also be used for hunting. Training this breed requires a steady and experienced hand. When used for hunting, the Kopov is also a pleasant companion dog.
Origin and history
The Slovensky Kopov – also known by the names Slovak Hound, Wild Boar, or Kopov – originated in the mountainous regions of Slovakia, where these dogs were long used for hunting wild boar and predators and for protecting homes and farms. Purebred breeding of the Slovensky Kopov only began at the beginning of the 20th century. Since 1963 the Kopov has been registered with the FCI under the German name Slowakische Schwarzwildbracke.
Appearance
The Kopov is a medium-sized, elongated, smooth-coated hunting dog with a light, lean build. It has dark eyes, a black nose, and lop ears of medium length that lie flat against its head. The tail is long, and strong and is carried hanging down when at rest.
The black deer hound’s coat is smooth, dense, close-lying, and short. It is slightly longer on the back, neck, and tail. It consists of a coarse top coat and a soft undercoat. The fur color is black with brown markings on the chest, paws, cheeks, and above the eyes.
Nature
The Slovensky Kopov is a very intelligent, enduring scent hound that can loudly follow a warm trail in difficult terrain for hours. It has an extraordinary sense of direction, is quick and agile, and is one of the best scent hounds in its class. In addition, it is also a reliable watchdog.
The temperamental hunting dog is used to acting very independently, so it also needs very consistent but sensitive training. The best that can be achieved with Kopov with strictness or excessive harshness is that it refuses to work altogether. But once it has accepted its caregiver as its boss, it is extremely affectionate and loyal.
The Slovensky Kopov belongs in the hands of the hunter to be appropriate to the species and to be used according to its needs. When used for hunting, it is also a pleasant and undemanding companion dog who likes to take part in family life. The short, uncomplicated coat is easy to care for.