Hygen Hound

Historical Development and Temperament

The Hygen Hound, or Hygenhund, is a distinct Norwegian scent hound developed in the 19th century by Hans Fredrik Hygen. By crossing various local scent hounds with imported German and English stock, Hygen sought to create a robust, cold-resistant hunter capable of navigating the rugged Scandinavian terrain. The breed was officially recognized in 1839, marking a significant milestone in Nordic hunting history. These dogs are renowned for their exceptional stamina and independent spirit, traits that are strictly monitored by national organizations dedicated to preserving the breed's working utility.

Temperamentally, the Hygen Hound is calm and affectionate within the home, yet transforms into a tireless, focused worker in the field. They possess a keen sense of smell and a persistent tracking ability. When preparing these dogs for dog shows, handlers must emphasize the dog's natural, athletic gait and balanced proportions. It is essential for breeders to maintain the integrity of the breed's pedigree names to ensure that the genetic diversity remains healthy and that the breed does not suffer from the pitfalls of over-specialization.

Anatomical Specifications

• General Appearance: A rectangular, medium-sized hound with a sturdy, muscular build.
• Head: The skull is slightly arched with a well-defined stop and a straight, powerful muzzle.
• Eyes: Dark brown, expressing a calm and intelligent gaze, which is often scrutinized by FCI judges during evaluation.
• Ears: Set at medium height, hanging close to the head, and rounded at the tips.
• Coat: Short, straight, and dense, providing excellent protection against harsh weather.
• Movement: The gait must be efficient and ground-covering, adhering to the strict exhibition standards set forth by the FCI.
• Training: Prospective owners should seek guidance from reputable cynology schools to ensure the hound's high energy is channeled appropriately.

• The breed was named after its creator, Hans Fredrik Hygen, who was a captain in the Norwegian army.
• Hygen Hounds are specifically bred to hunt hare, a common game in the Norwegian mountains.
• They are known for their 'cold nose,' meaning they can track game even when the scent is very faint or old.
• Despite their hunting prowess, they are remarkably gentle with children and make excellent family companions.
• The breed is quite rare outside of its native Norway, making it a prized possession for hound enthusiasts.