MAGYAR AGAR DOG

Magyar Agar Dog Breed

• Other Names:
• Hungarian Agar
• Hungarian Greyhound

Overview

The Magyar agar is a large sized sighthound sometimes called the Hungarian Greyhound, though this is confusing to some, as it does not descend from the Greyhound. It originated in Hungary amongst the Magyar people and was bred as a hunting and coursing dog but nowadays it is often kept as a companion.

These intelligent, affectionate and well-mannered dogs can live in apartments or small homes but should be provided with ample opportunities to exercise by running or walking. They are not aggressive and can get along quite well with children and other pets if properly trained and socialized. Magyars do not like cold weather although they can adapt when necessary. This breed isn't recognized by the AKC however it is recognized by the UKC.

Magyar Agar Breed Description

As adults these dogs will reach a height of 25 to 27 inches for males and 24 to 26 inches for females. Their weight will be between 49-69 pounds. Their large size makes them excel as guard dogs and running companions.

These dogs are calm and unaggressive, and can even be gentle and sweet. They are good with kids and as family pets, though they should be socialized early in their life with any non-canine pets that they will be living with.

This is a low to medium maintenance breed. Their grooming will be very minimal--occasional brushing and bathing; they will need a good amount of vigorous exercise, making them a great fit for an active owner.

Magyar Agar Breed History

This breed has a long history that dates back to the arrival of the Magyar people in what is present-day Hungary. These dogs were the result of cross-breeding various sighthounds in the 19th century in order to make a dog with improved agility and stamina. In these times, the dogs would have been expected to run alongside their horse-riding masters.

The Maygar was used for coursing (hunting game by sight rather than sound or smell), though it also has a good nose. These dogs have also exceled at racing, especially long distance trials. The Hungarian Greyhound was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 2006.

Magyar Agar Appearance

The Magyar Agar has a long, slender but sturdy frame and a muscular build that allows it to excel at coursing game over rugged terrain. The silhouette is similar to the greyhound, but they are not descended from one another. The Magyars have thick skin covered by a short, smooth coat that can be many different colors. The coat may become slightly longer during the cold seasons. This unique trait gives them more resilience against cold temperatures than some of the other short-coated sighthound breeds. These dogs have narrow, pointed skulls on a long muscular neck much like the Greyhound, and their ears are large, floppy, and generally fall back towards the neck.

Magyar Agar Coloring

This breed's coat can be any color combination besides the following: blue, blue & white, wolf gray, black & tan, and tricolor.

The Magyar's coat often displays a common natural camouflage pattern known as counter-shading. When this is present the coat will appear lighter on its upper half and darker on its lower half when it is lit from above.

Magyar Agar Size

These are large dogs. As adults they will reach a height of 25.5 to 27.5 inches for males and 24.5 to 26.5 inches for females. Their weight will be less compared to other breeds of the same height, that is between 49-69 pounds.

Average Adult Height

23-28 in

_{*Height is measured in inches from the front paws to the top of the shoulder while the dog is standing on all four legs.}

Average Adult Weight

50-70 lbs

_{*Height is measured in inches from the front paws to the top of the shoulder while the dog is standing on all four legs.}

Magyar Agar Temperament

Dogs of this type are known to be affectionate and submissive companions in addition to excellent hunters. This breed is intelligent, loyal, and easy to train. They are unaggressive and should behave well around children and other dogs, though socialization at an early age is still highly recommended. Many owners report that their Magyar lives amicably with other non-dog pets but it must be stressed that these dogs are bred to hunt and without proper socialization and training they may have trouble seeing the cat as a friend and not prey. Biting or nipping will hardly occur with this dog, though Magyars do have a much stronger guarding instinct than other sighthound breeds. Barking is the most likely response to a stranger. Even if the Magyar is not going to be used as a hunting or coursing dog it can make a wonderful companion if given proper training and exercise.

Magyar Agar and Children

This breed has been known to be good with children, though best behavior will be found if the dog is trained and socialized at a young age. As with any larger dog, Magyars should not be left unattended with smaller children due to the threat of knocking over.

Magyar Agar and Other Pets

If these dogs are not properly socialized, they may want to chase down anything that resembles prey (which includes most small house-pets). However, with proper socialization and training, they can get along with cats and other small pets.

Magyar Agar and Strangers

These dogs are not aggressive and should not threaten unfamiliar people, though some do have guarding instincts and may bark or display protective behavior.

Magyar Agar Maintenance

These dogs are low maintenance. Their short, smooth coat is rather easy to groom and bathing will only be needed once in awhile. They will need a moderate amount of exercise to stay in shape and be mentally stimulated if not used for coursing.

Grooming Requirements

The Magyar's coat is rather resilient and should only require brushing about once a week. Bathing should be done as needed; once every few months should be sufficient.

Exercise Requirements

This is an active breed and it will require a fair amount of exercise to stay in shape if it is not used for hunting. A long walk or brisk jog each day should be sufficient; these dogs have excellent stamina and are also great for bike rides and other strenuous forms of exercise.

Living Requirements

These dogs are adaptable to different environments and should be fine in an apartment or in a small home assuming they are given sufficient exercise and human interaction. They may spend most of the day sleeping but still need plenty of exercise to keep them fit and happy.

Temperature Range

This breed prefers warm climates but can adapt to cold if they have access to proper shelter.

Magyar Agar Health

The Magyar Agar has an average life span of 12-14 years and is considered a healthy breed. No hereditary diseases are known for this breed.