ALL Croatian Dog Breeds

7) Old Croatian Sighthound
Lets start the video with the least known dog of this list – the Old Croatian Sighthound. It is a pretty tall dog with height between 50-70 cms, which is 20-28 inch with a typical sighthound body. They almost went extinct during the Croatia's time as part of Yugoslavia, but there is report from 2008 which confirm their existence.

6) Croatian Sheepdog
Next we have the hard working, black coated, athletic dog with amazing herding skills – the Croatian Sheepdog. This dog breed is extremely active, it seems their energy level is endless. They are not only amazing herders, but they also make great wachdogs and companions for activepeople. You can always easily recognize them thanks to their thick, wavy black coat.

5) Istrian Short-haired Hound
Another energetic dog breed, this time developed to hunt and work in field. They are highly intelligent and hard working dogs. They can hunt almost all day long, thanks to their high stamina. They are known for their persistent and sharp baying or crying when they are hunting, which is quite typical for scenthounds.

4) Istrian Coarse-haired Hound
This breed was developed in the 19th century Croatia by crossing the Istrian Shorthaired hound with French Griffon Vendeen. They inherited the wiry coat from French Griffon Vendeen, but kept the extremely strong hunting instinct and work ethic just as their little bit smaller, shorthaired cousins.

3) Dalmatian
Definitely the most popular dog breed on this list, the Dalmatian, has their place of origin in their name – historical Croatian region called Dalmatia. Their origin is often time disputed, but FCI recognize them as Croatian breed, so they have a space in this video. The reason why their origin is disputed is, that paintings from 14th of similar dogs to Dalmatian can be found in Italy, Spain and even Egypt. It is also believed that Dalmatians lived with bands of nomadic gypsies and traveled them around the Europe. The history of this breed is definitely little bit mysterious and mystical.

The breed was further developed in England in 19th century where they got their lets say royal and dignified look. The English nobility bred them as companions of coaches, which they used to protect. And of course, later, they baceme the famous firefighting escorts.

2) Posavac Hound

It is very likely you might never hear about this dog breed before, but i am sure you can tell on the first sight, that it is a hunter by heart. Just as many other scenthounds, they have the typical large floppy ears and short coat in red and white color. They are active, very affectionate and playful, making them great companions for activie families.

1) Tornjak
The last breed in this video is the largest dog and definitely the best protector. The Tornjak hails from Bosnia and Hercegovina and Croatia. In the history they have been known as both – Bosnian Shepherd dog and Croatian Shepherd dog.

They were developed in the mountains, which is why they have the very thick coat which is protecting them from mountainous climate. These dogs were bred to protect sheep, so they are naturally vigilant and alert, but when they are not on their duty, they are very calm and peaceful. They are pretty territorial and protective, but they are never agressive without a reason, especially not, when they are on a walk outside their home.