Size in Bloodhounds

Size in Bloodhounds

There are several references to size in the Bloodhound Breed Standard that have created confusion for some judges:

• “He is very powerful, and stands over more ground than is usual with hounds of other breeds.”
• “The mean average height of adult dogs is 26 inches, and of adult bitches 24 inches. Dogs usually vary from 25 to 27 inches, and bitches from 23 to 25 inches; but, in either case, the greater height is to be preferred, provided that character and quality are also combined.”
• “The mean average weight of adult dogs, in fair condition, is 90 pounds, and of adult bitches 80 pounds. Dogs attain the weight of 110 pounds, bitches 100 pounds. The greater weights are to be preferred, provided (as in the case of height) that quality and proportion are also combined.”

Some things to keep in mind:

• The Standard originated in England. The scenthounds there were essentially Beagles, Harriers, and English Foxhounds. The largest of these, the English Foxhound, might be as tall as 24″ in a mature male. So, a 26″ male Bloodhound, proportioned the same as an English Foxhound, will definitely take up more space. “Stands over more ground” does not infer that the breed is LONG, just longer than the other scenthounds in England at the time. Excessive length in the loin will interfere with the transfer of power from the rear drive and will be tiring over a long trail.
• The references to greater heights or greater weights being preferred refer only to the ranges mentioned. This does not mean that bigger is better, only that within the size range the larger end of that range is preferred as long as the other desired Bloodhound qualities exist in the larger individual.
• Large, clunky dogs that border on Mastiff substance will NOT easily be able to perform the original function of the Bloodhound. Carrying too much size is extremely tiring after 5-10 miles, and endurance will suffer.
• The weights listed were from over 100 years ago, back when nutrition was iffy at best. Bone and substance have definitely improved since then. Today, a 26-inch male that weighs only 110 pounds will appear and feel extremely underweight or lacking in substance, and one that is only 90 pounds will seem skeletal or puny. A 26-inch male will more likely have a healthy weight of about 125 pounds or so.
• There is nothing in the Breed Standard explaining proportion, sadly, so think of the proportions of an English Foxhound: not square, slightly longer than tall, bordering on rectangular. Length should be in the ribcage.
• There is really no such thing as a “mean average” measurement, so ignore that term.

Judges should try to reward Bloodhounds that are not racy or overly long, nor reward those that have so much substance that they have lost the appearance of athleticism. Try to find that midpoint where possible, keeping in mind the function of a good Bloodhound: mantrailing.