Kritikos Ichnilatis
Cretan Hound, Kressa Kyon, Kritikos Lagonikos
The Kritikos Ichnilatis, or Cretan Hound, is a rare primitive breed from the Greek island of Crete. It is little known outside its homeland and not recognized by any major international kennel clubs.
A supreme rabbit and hare hunter, the Kritikos Ichnilatis can be used for both tracking and coursing their prey.
Kritikos Ichnilatis Standards
- 19"-27"
- 44-66 lbs
- large primitive breed
- ears are triangular, upright
- tail is long and curved, forming a tight or loose ring over back
- coat is short, smooth, hard, and flat
- black
- brindled
- cream
- fawn
- grey
- sandy
- white
- may be bi-colored or tri-colored
History of the Kritikos Ichnilatis
The Kritikos Ichnilatis is an ancient breed of dog from the island of Crete. It has been found on artifacts dating back at least 3500 years. Many sources date that it is ‘the oldest European hunting breed’. However, this claim would be very difficult to verify. We do know that it was known even during the Minoan Civilization and was once kept throughout the Greek colonies. It is unknown how their ancestors arrived in the region although it may be possible that they are descended from the Egyptian Tesem. These dogs would have been brought by either Phoenicians or the Greeks themselves. Alternatively, it may be that the Kritikos Ichnilatis is a native dog and was used to influence the other dogs in the Mediterranean. Some authors state a specific tie to the Cirneco dell’Etna.
Due to the Kritikos Ichnilatis’ rarity it makes it difficult to obtain more information on this breed. Perhaps, since it is a registered by The Kennel Club of Greece, it will one day gain Fédération Cynologique Internationale recognition.