Variability of basic morphometric parameters in Posavatz hounds in Serbia

Introduction. By the number of litters and puppies per year, the Posavatz hound is the second most common hound breed in Serbia. This hound is intensively used for hunting in Serbia, since these dogs show very good working characteristics. The aim of this study was to determine the extent to which the external characteristics of the population in Serbia meet the norms prescribed by the official standard for the breed. Materials and Methods. A total of 251 Posavatz hounds, i.e. 134 adult males and 117 adult females, were included in a morphometric evaluation of the population sub-sample during 2017 and 2018. The basic parameters of height at the withers, body length, chest circumference and head length were measured. The variability of the results obtained was statistically analyzed by Student?s t-test for distribution of the frequencies, while the heterogeneity/homogeneity of the evaluated morphometric parameters within the Posavatz breed was estimated by coefficient of variation. Results and Conclusions. The results showed the studied Posavatz hounds in Serbia are characterized by a proper rectangular body shape. However, the average body height tended to be too low, i.e. more towards the lower limit of the prescribed height at the withers. The morphometric deviations established when comparing the Posavatz hound population in Serbia with the standard for the breed should enlighten the guidelines for sound selective breeding of the Posavatz hound by contributing to decision making by breeders and expert commissions of canine organizations. Overall, this should allow healthy breeding and welfare maintenance throughout generations for this hound breed.