Slovak Rough-haired Pointer

Slovak Rough-haired Pointers appreciate the stiff-haired Ogar for its lightning-fast reaction. It literally “flies like a bullet” after the shot is fired. It is well-oriented in the dense grass (it follows the blood trail) and on the water. That is why it is considered a universal dog. It is also very attached to the owner and is suitable for keeping in a large friendly family.

Breed Photos

Origin History

The Slovak Rough-haired Pointer is considered a relatively young breed. Its origin dates back to about the 50s of the twentieth century. In Slovakia, in the post-war years, hunting small game returned in popularity. In this regard, experienced enthusiasts thought about breeding a new universal helper. They were able to get it by crossing the German Drahthaar with the Czech Fousek. And a little later, to get the color gray, they added the blood of a Weimaraner. The stiff-haired Ogar (so the breed is called at home) was the successful result of all the hunters’ experiments. They were engaged in breeding under the keen guidance of the dog breeder Coloman Slimak. In the future, he would even write a book with a detailed description of Czechoslovakian breeds.

Until 1975, the breed was called the “stiff-haired Weimaraner”. Until the time, the Slovak Rough-haired Pointer was recognized as an independent breed. In 1982 the breed standard was adopted, and the International Canine Federation officially recognized the dogs. Now the breed remains quite popular in its homeland, as well as among hunters in France. In Slovakia, the hard-haired Ogar is valued for its solid working qualities. The Slovak Association of Hunters also recognizes the breed.

Appearance

The Slovak Rough-haired Pointer puppy is born exclusively with blue eyes. After growing up, the color acquires a yellowish tint. The eyes are almond-shaped. The body of the hard-haired beagle is slightly extended, the format is rectangular. The neck is strong and well-muscled. A broad chest with pronounced ribs. His back is straight and long. The abdomen is taut. The transition from forehead to muzzle is moderately pronounced. Slim floppy ears rounded toward the end. The tail is set high and cropped on 1/2 of the length. The coat of medium length (4-5 cm) is firm and close to the body, with a dense undercoat.

Another characteristic feature of the breed is the muzzle hair, which forms a beard because of its hairiness. The Slovak Rough-haired Pointer also has funny, slightly slanting eyebrows made of soft wool. The permissible color: all shades of light brown and gray with barely visible light markings.

Character

Slovak Rough-haired Pointers appreciate the stiff-haired Ogar for its lightning-fast reaction. It literally “flies like a bullet” after the shot is fired. It is well-oriented in the dense grass (it follows the blood trail) and on the water. That is why it is considered a universal dog. It is also very attached to the owner and is suitable for keeping in a large friendly family.

You can be sure that the Slovak Rough-haired Pointer will find a common language with your child. She will never refuse him to play together. Her character is balanced. The attitude to guests at home is friendly, so a guard dog is not suitable. Due to its active disposition, the stiff-haired Ogar is more suitable for keeping in a spacious house of its own than in an apartment.

Care

The Slovak Rough-haired Pointer is not at all undemanding in its care. Frequent bathing of the pet is not recommended not to damage the coat’s natural protection and not interfere with its self-cleaning. If it is strictly a pet and not a “workhorse”, bathing is mandatory once every four months. The breed’s shedding is seasonal. Taking care of your pet’s coarse fur is not complicated – comb out the hair once every few weeks. Also, don’t forget about hygiene procedures for the eyes and ears. Inspect them every week, too. Nail clippings are recommended once a month.

Training

Sharp intelligence, quick wit, and obedient nature are the Slovak Rough-haired Pointer traits that will help you in your training. It demonstrates a strong desire to please its owner and rather receive praise and rewards for doing so. The rough-haired hound also needs intense training and long walks with active games. Do not forget about the early socialization of the pet. It is especially true for small animals because the Slovak Rough-haired Pointer can easily mistake them for prey.

Common Diseases

Over the years of studying the breed by cynologists and veterinarians, no severe genetic diseases have been reported. However, there is a propensity for some diseases:

• spondylitis of the spinal discs;
• problems with the immune system;
• metaphyseal osteopathy;
• hip dysplasia;
• idiopathic epilepsy;
• eye and ear infections.

Nutrition

The diet of a hard-haired hound should be as balanced as possible. As with any active and healthy dog, the Slovak Rough-haired Pointer has a regular diet. It consists of a large amount of protein and all necessary vitamins. We recommend that you talk to an experienced breed owner or your veterinarian to find the perfect diet for your dog.