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Magyar Agar

Magyar Agar

No Additional Pictures
Breed Organization
United Kennel Club (UKC)
Native Country
Other Names
Hungarian Greyhound, MA
Life Expectancy
Approximately 12-14 Years
Litter Size
No Information Available
Breed Group
Breed Appearance
The Magyar Agar is a sighthound of elegant yet rugged stature. While they bear some resemblance to Greyhounds, there are a number of significant differences in conformation between the two breeds. Magyar Agars are longer in body than they are tall, and have a heavier bone structure than Greyhounds. Their heads are more wedge-shaped, with substantial jaw muscles and shorter snouts, giving them a less refined appearance than most Greyhounds. They also have much thicker skin with a short, dense and smooth coat that is slightly longer during winter months. As such, they are very hardy dogs and can tolerate lower temperatures better than some of the other short-coated sighthounds. They have rose-shaped ears that are raised about half way and oval-shaped eyes with a bright and gentle looking expression. They come in a variety of colors. The amount of "greyhoundness" in the MA is the point of controversy among European breeders and enthusiasts. This issue revolves around the fact that greyhounds were bred with MAs in the 19th century and early 20th century. Some prefer an "old fashioned" variation of the MA with its robust frame and musculature, while some prefer a more "greyhound-like" dog with a lighter frame and more speed. The sturdy frame of the Magyar Agar makes it ideal for coursing game over a rugged terrain. Given their conformation, Magyar Agar are not as fast as Greyhounds on short sprints, but possess greater endurance and stamina, making them much more suited to running longer distances for longer periods of time. In the old days, these dogs would have been expected to trail alongside their masters on horseback.

Breed Description
Head: From the top and sides, resembles a long triangle. Relatively broad skull. Slight stop. Powerful muzzle. Strong jaws. Strong cheeks.
Ears: Set on fairly high, medium-sized, not too thin, semi-pendulous, V-shaped.
Eyes: Medium-sized, preferably brown.
Body: Long, muscular. Neck not very long, well-muscled. Relatively wide brisket. Chest deep, not too flat. Slightly curved loin. Slight tuck-up. Firm, fairly broad, straight back. Broad, slightly sloping croup.
Tail: Long, not too thin, slightly curved at the tip, always carried below the topline.
Hair: Close-lying, not too fine. Thick in winter.
Coat: All colors are allowed, solid, spotted or brindle.
Size: Dog: 65 to 70 cm (25,5-27,5 in).Bitch: slightly smaller.
Weight: Dog: approx. 30 kg (66 lb).Bitch: approx. 25 kg (55 lb).

The Magyar Agar is believed to be descended from Asian Greyhounds brought to Hungary in the ninth century by the Magyars and probably crossed with local hounds. In the nineteenth century, crosses were made with the Greyhound to make the breed faster. Originally named the Magyar Agar (agar means "greyhound" in Hungarian).

Tough, active, persistent and bold, the Magyar Agar is not as fast as the Greyhound but is hardier and is a tireless tracker. In Hungary, it is used to catch and kill hare and fox. It has a mediocre nose. Gentle, affectionate, calm and loyal, it is a delightful pet. It is fairly independent but even-tempered and needs firm training.

No negative reports for this breed.

It can live in the city but needs regular opportunities to run. As with other sighthounds, it should be kept away from cattle. It does not like cold (although it can tolerate lower temperatures.)and must be brushed twice a week.

Hunting Dog, Companion Dog.

Horse Herd