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Sinhala Hound Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Sinhala Hound so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Hunting Dogs
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OriginSri Lanka flagSri Lanka
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Sinhala Hound known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
Sri Lankan DogSri Lankan Street DogThe Sri Lankan Rice HoundSinhalese Hound
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Sinhala Hound? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Purebred

Sinhala Hound Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Sinhala Hound? Learn how big the Sinhala Hound breed typically grows.
SmallMedium
Weight Statistics
How much does a Sinhala Hound weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Sinhala Hound breed.
Male: 22-26 pounds (10-12 kg), Female: 20-25 pounds (9-11 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Sinhala Hound?
Male: 24 pounds (11 kg), Female: 22.5 pounds (10 kg)
Height
How tall is the Sinhala Hound? Sinhala Hound height:
Male: 14-16 inches (36-41 cm), Female: 13-15 inches (33-38 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Sinhala Hound?
Male: 15 inches (38.5 cm), Female: 14 inches (35.5 cm)

Sinhala Hound Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Sinhala Hound puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Sinhala Hound costs.
Unknown
Unfortunately, we couldn't find the price of the Sinhala Hound. If you have a Sinhala Hound for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Sinhala Hound gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Sinhala Hound? How many Sinhala Hound are there in the world?
Rare: You may rarely see each other in everyday life, but you might catch a glimpse of each other at dog shows.

There are very few of them, and there have been times when they have almost drifted to the brink of extinction, so few are left.

Sinhala Hound Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Sinhala Hound? Discover the Sinhala Hound's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The Sinhala Hound ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Sinhala Hound? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's trainability and response to training methods.
Sinhala Hound dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Sinhala Hound as a watchdog? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's alertness and guarding instincts.
Sinhala Hound dogs are one of the best watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're very consistent in their effort. The best vocal cords and sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're very territorial and protective about their property, so the Sinhala Hound dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Territorial Protection
Is a Sinhala Hound protective of its territory? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's guarding instincts and behavior.
Sinhala Hound dogs are average defenders. Some dogs are very protective of their territory, while others easily let a stranger to trespass. This breed is not sure to defend its territory in every situation.

Sinhala Hound Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Sinhala Hound have? Learn about characteristic Sinhala Hound temperament and behavior traits.
ActiveIndependentAlertLivelyGentle
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Sinhala Hound sensitivity:
Sinhala Hound dogs are less sensitive than other dog breeds. They aren't receptive to their owner's emotions and handle soft punishment quite well.

They don't mind an always changing daily routine, a hectic household, young children, a noisy or office environment, and frequent guest visits.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Sinhala Hound a good family dog?
Average to High: Sinhala Hound dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Sri Lankan Dog need? Sinhala Hound social needs:
Sinhala Hound dogs are kinda antisocial. This breed doesn't like being around people all the time, they tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Sinhala Hound to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Sinhala Hound roam?
Sinhala Hound dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command. This breed is also able to cause damage to your fence.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Sinhala Hound have high prey drive?
Sinhala Hound dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something. Cats or any other small animals are in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Sinhala Hound dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Sinhala Hound Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Sinhala Hound bark a lot? Learn about typical Sinhala Hound vocalization patterns and triggers.
Average: The Sinhala Hound barks occasionally. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Sinhala Hound? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Sinhala Hound breed.
Average: Sinhala Hounds, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Sinhala Hound live in an apartment? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's suitability for apartment living.
Not an apartment-friendly dog the Sinhala Hound breed. If you don't have a garden, think carefully about your decision, keeping Sinhala Hound indoors can cause a lot of problems.

Sinhala Hound Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Sinhala Hound to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's flexibility to new situations.
Average: Sinhala Hound dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Sinhala Hound be left alone? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's tolerance to solitude.
Sinhala Hound dogs handle alone time quite well. They are not prone to have separation anxiety.

Sinhala Hound Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Sinhala Hound biting potential? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The Sinhala Hound has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Sinhala Hound mouthy? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's tendency to use mouth during play.
Sinhala Hound dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Sinhala Hound dogs need to be taught a good attitude.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Sinhala Hound bite? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Sinhala Hound bite force: Weak. The Sinhala Hound bite force is considered weak when compared to other dog breeds. The bite force Sinhala Hound measurements usually fall below 200 PSI, making them one of the breeds with the weakest bite force. The bite force of a Sinhala Hound may be weak, but it's important to remember that any dog's bite can still be dangerous if not managed properly. Despite the bite force of Sinhala Hound being lower, it does not make them any less lovable or enjoyable as pets.

Sinhala Hound bite wounds might not be as severe, but it is still essential to be cautious and prevent any biting incidents.

They are usually not aggressive and very friendly towards children and other animals. To ensure a well-behaved dog, it's essential to learn how to train a Sinhala Hound puppy not to bite from an early age. With proper training and socialization, a Sinhala Hound can be a wonderful addition to any family, providing love and companionship for years to come.

Sinhala Hound Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Sinhala Hound live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Sinhala Hound breed.
14-18 years
The average lifespan of Sinhala Hound: 16 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Sinhala Hound handle different weather? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's climate adaptability.
Prefers average to warm weather conditions
Different dogs have different preferences when it comes to weather conditions. However, in general, most dogs prefer average to warm weather conditions, as they typically find hot weather conditions to be uncomfortable and taxing.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Sinhala Hound? Discover typical conditions affecting the Sinhala Hound breed.
The Sinhala Hound is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Sinhala Hound need vet visits? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's veterinary care requirements.
Average
The Sinhala Hound should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.

Sinhala Hound Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Sinhala Hound? Understand daily activity needs of the Sinhala Hound breed.
Sinhala Hound dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Sinhala Hound need? How much exercise do Sinhala Hound dogs require per day?

Do Sinhala Hound dogs need a lot of exercises?

Sinhala Hound dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Sinhala Hound breed need?
Sinhala Hound dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

Sinhala Hound Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Sinhala Hound prone to weight gain? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's obesity risks.
Low to Average: The Sinhala Hound has a low to the average risk for obesity. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Sinhala Hound weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Sinhala Hound need daily? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's feeding requirements.
1 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Sinhala Hound Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Sinhala Hound hypoallergenic? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
Sinhala Hound dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Sinhala Hound come in? Discover all possible Sinhala Hound color variations.
Black Red SableBlack & Tan
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Sinhala Hound need? Learn about Sinhala Hound coat maintenance requirements.
Effortless: The Sinhala Hound requires minimal grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned sometimes to avoid infections. Sinhala Hound is one of the best choices if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Highly recommended for beginners.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Sinhala Hound drool a lot? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's drooling habits.
The Sinhala Hound is a perfect example of a low drooling tendency. If you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, the Sinhala Hound could be a good choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool less than others, just like the Sinhala Hound.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Sinhala Hound smell bad? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's natural odor levels.

Medium

The Sinhala Hound has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Sinhala Hound have? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's fur characteristics.
SoftThickDouble
Bathing Needs
How often does a Sinhala Hound need baths? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's bathing requirements.
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.

Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean.

Shedding Level
How much do Sinhala Hound dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Sri Lankan Dog? Do Sinhala Hound dogs shed a lot?
Sinhala Hound dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.

Sinhala Hound Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Sinhala Hound good with children? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's behavior around kids of different ages.
Sinhala Hound dogs are average friendly dogs towards children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Sinhala Hound get along with other pets? Discover the Sinhala Hound's compatibility with other animals.
Sinhala Hound dogs usually don’t get on well with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Sinhala Hound temperament with other people:
Sinhala Hound dogs are stranger-friendly dogs.
Cat Friendly
How well do Sinhala Hound dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Sinhala Hound breed live with a cat?
Sinhala Hound dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Sinhala Hound good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Sinhala Hound dogs get along with other dogs?
Sinhala Hound dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Sinhala Hound breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Sinhala Hound breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Sinhala Hound dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Sinhala Hound dogs good office canines? Do Sinhala Hound dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
Yes
Sinhala Hound is one of the best dog breeds for office environment
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Sinhala Hound dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Sri Lankan Dog temperament with senior people? Are Sinhala Hound dogs good for elderly owners?
Sinhala Hounds are commonly okay with elderly people.

Sinhala Hound As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Sinhala Hound be a service dog? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Sinhala Hound is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Sinhala Hound good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Sinhala Hound is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Sinhala Hound good at detection work? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Sinhala Hound is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Sinhala Hound do search and rescue? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Sinhala Hound is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Sinhala Hound good on boats? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's maritime capabilities.

Not really

Sinhala Hound breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Sinhala Hound pull carts? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's drafting abilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Sinhala Hound is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Sinhala Hound used in military service? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Sinhala Hound Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Sinhala Hound usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
1-6 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Sinhala Hound pregnant? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Sinhala Hound: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Sinhala Hound have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Sinhala Hound Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Sinhala Hound in? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's AKC classification.
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Sinhala Hound in? Learn about the Sinhala Hound's international classification.
Not recognized by FCI.

Sinhala Hound Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Grooming Requirements: Effortless: The Sinhala Hound requires minimal grooming.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Sinhala Hound is a perfect example of a low drooling tendency.
  • Obesity Tendency: Low to Average: The Sinhala Hound has a low to the average risk for obesity.
  • Watchdog Rating: Sinhala Hound dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Alone Time Tolerance: Sinhala Hound dogs handle alone time quite well.
  • Office Friendly: Sinhala Hound is one of the best dog breeds for office environment
  • Good For First Time Owners: Sinhala Hound dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Allergy Friendliness: Sinhala Hound dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Adaptability: Not an apartment-friendly dog the Sinhala Hound breed.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Sinhala Hound dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world.
  • Cat Friendly: Sinhala Hound dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.

Sinhala Hound History

The Sinhala Hound is a native dog found throughout Sri Lanka, often living in a semi-wild state scavenging for food. According to a legend when Prince Vijaya first arrived in Sir Lanka in the 6th century BC, he was greeted by the barking of these dogs. There is not much evidence or written record about the breed, but some people believe that it is the Sinhala Hound that was mentioned in the Mahavamsa which would indicate that the dog goes way back in time. The Mahavamsa, also known as the “Great Chronicle”, is a meticulously kept historical chronicle of Sri Lanka, written in the style of the epic poem and which dates back to the 5th century. In the chronicle, there are domestic dogs mentioned who belong to the island’s Stone Age inhabitants. However, we cannot be sure if they were actual Sinhala Hounds.

According to historians, the Sinhala Hound can be found in a variety of colors, but brown and dark brown brindle is the most common among them. Apparently, they are described as watchful, alert, amiable, and obedient with a keen scenting ability. They are thought to be very similar in form to the African Basenji, the New Guinea singing dog, and the Australian Dingo. Unfortunately, we don’t actually know if these breeds are related in any way.

Long overlooked by authorities in favor of imported dog breeds, only recently have the Sri Lankan Kennel Club been encouraged to recognize the landrace as a breed.

Rate The Sinhala Hound Breed

Sinhala Hound Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Rayan

    Jan 26, 2024, 8:21:19 AM:

    Sinhala hound is a very good dog.I hope sl hounds will be world best dog breed

  • Nirmani

    Mar 10, 2023, 3:13:28 AM:

    Sinhala hounds are very lovely, kind, affectionate, and loyal dogs. If you train him to be with cats, they will be friendly to each other. Some information in this article is a bit wrong I think. But as a whole, it is a good article.

  • Diana Rosas

    Jan 13, 2023, 10:41:31 AM:

    They are great dogs, very playful although some dogs have attitudes. Their coats vary, some have long fur while others have short fur. As all dogs, they love belly rubs.

  • mia

    Mar 12, 2022, 3:05:57 AM:

  • Prasad

    Nov 27, 2020, 11:30:58 AM:

    Sinhala hounds are very intelligent dogs, highly adaptive, very healthy and very affectionate

  • Sahan

    Jul 1, 2020, 7:01:20 PM:

    Really appreciate this work.. Big salute for those who work hard for this ❤️

  • Vishmi

    Apr 25, 2020, 9:40:13 PM:

    Sinhala Hounds are usually straying in Sri Lanka. But they are very intelligent dogs, highly adaptive, very healthy and very affectionate. These dogs need little to moderate attention, because they will just obey their master no matter what.

  • Thushan

    Jan 18, 2020, 2:55:16 PM:

    Veary smart dog they can adopt climate changes easier than other dogs easy to train .

  • Anuradha

    Sep 19, 2019, 2:26:27 AM:

    These dogs are amazing. No need of pet clinic visits except for the vital anti rabies doses. In sri Lanka they are given away free of charge.Although the average wight and size mentioned in the article are small, some individuals are much larger.