At a glance the quick version
Coat and looks how to spot one
short, dense coat with undercoat
A light, agile hound with a close-fitting, moderately coarse coat about 2-5 cm long, a little longer on the back, neck and tail, over a dense undercoat that thickens in winter.3
Personality what they are like
A spirited, persistent and brave hunter in the field that is relaxed and good-natured at home. It is clever and trainable, loyal to its family and watchful over its property, and fairly quiet for a hound.324
Daily activity how busy a day looks
High: bred to follow a trail for hours, so it needs long daily walks or runs and scent work or hunting to keep it content.34
Company who they like around
Gets on well with children and bonds with its family, while keeping an eye on the home.2
The story where it all began
Hounds of this type have hunted in the Slovak forests for a very long time, probably shaped by Austrian, Polish and Hungarian hounds. The modern breed was described from the 1870s, the FCI recognised it in 1963, and a breed club was set up in Bratislava in 1988.21
Fun facts for the dinner table
- 1
It can follow a warm trail for hours, giving voice as it goes, and is prized for wild boar hunting.3
- 2
The breed standard highlights its unusually strong sense of direction, helping it find its way back to the hunter.3
- 3
The name 'Black Forest Hound' used in North America seems to be a marketing name with no link to Germany's Black Forest.2
- 4
It always comes in the same colours: black with rich tan markings.3
Recognised by the official bits
- FCI
- Standard no. 244, Group 6 (Scent hounds), Section 1.2 medium-sized hounds; definitive recognition 16 Apr 1963; subject to a working trial.1
- United Kennel Club (UKC)
- Recognised.2
The care rhythm Furry Diary remembers it for you
A typical home-care rhythm for a Slovenský kopov. It is our own starting plan, not a vet's advice, and you can change every line in the app.
- Brushingevery week
- Bathevery 8 weeks
- Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
- Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
- Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
- ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
- Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
- Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Slovenský kopov, and at what times?
Feed your adult Slovenský kopov at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Consistent times like morning and evening work well. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.5
What should a Slovenský kopov eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Your Slovenský kopov should eat a high-quality dog food suited to its age and activity. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, and xylitol, these are especially harmful to dogs. Always consult your vet for a safe diet.6
How often should I bathe a Slovenský kopov?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests bathing every 56 days, and general guidance recommends at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets dirty or has skin issues. Use a gentle dog shampoo.7 Furry Diary plan
How often does a Slovenský kopov need brushing?
Brush your Slovenský kopov weekly to keep its short, dense coat healthy and reduce shedding. During shedding seasons, you may need to brush more often. This also strengthens your bond.7 Furry Diary plan
How do I trim a Slovenský kopov's nails, and how often?
Trim your Slovenský kopov's nails every 28 days, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.7 Furry Diary plan
How much exercise does a Slovenský kopov need?
Your Slovenský kopov needs high daily exercise, long walks, runs, and scent work to stay happy. Furry Diary recommends daily walks and play. This breed thrives with an active owner.34 Furry Diary plan
How do I look after a Slovenský kopov's teeth and ears?
Brush your Slovenský kopov's teeth at least every other day, ideally daily, using dog toothpaste. Check ears weekly and dry them gently, floppy ears can trap moisture. Never insert anything into the ear canal.7 Furry Diary plan
How long does a Slovenský kopov live?
Lifespan varies for this breed; consult your vet or a good breeder for typical expectations. They can give you the best guidance for your individual dog.
Is a Slovenský kopov good with children and other pets?
Yes, the Slovenský kopov is good-natured and gets on well with children, bonding closely with its family. It is also watchful over its home. Early socialisation helps with other pets.234
Can a Slovenský kopov be left alone?
This breed bonds closely with its family and may not enjoy long periods alone. It's best to ask your vet or a good breeder for advice on leaving it alone, as needs vary.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Furry Diary's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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Where this comes from
Every breed page shows where each fact comes from. If we got something wrong, sorry, we are pet people, not a science magazine. Tell us at [email protected] and we will fix it.
- SLOVENSKÝ KOPOV (244) - FCI breed nomenclature fci.beused for recognition, group, working trial
- Slovenský kopov - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for other names, UKC, temperament, history, fun facts
- FCI Standard No. 244 - Slovakian Hound fci.beused for size, weight, coat, colour, temperament, use
- Slovensky Kopov - American Kennel Club akc.orgused for temperament, traits
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
- ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Cat grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- RSPCA: What to feed your rabbit rspca.org.ukused for owner questions
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.