“Medeinos Šuo”, a Lithuanian hound kennel, was founded to promote this unique Lithuanian dog breed. Now that this goal has largely been achieved, our focus is on preserving the breed and ensuring that every dog we raise is healthy, well-bred, and as true to type as possible. All our puppies leave the kennel with full pedigree documentation from the Lithuanian Cynological Society (LKD) (an official FCI member) and an animal passport. Puppies are dewormed, vaccinated, and microchipped. We strictly adhere to all breeding standards: all dogs undergo hip dysplasia and DNA testing, closely related dogs are never bred, and female dogs are mated only at appropriate times. Simply put, we do not practice indiscriminate breeding. We hope that, like us, you will fall in love with these wonderful dogs.

But let us start at the very beginning. Many kennels count their founding date from the moment they acquire their first representative of the breed. We, however, consider the official registration of our kennel in 2016 as its true beginning. Our first Lithuanian Hound came to us in 2012, after we had lost another beloved four-legged companion. Her name was Naida Nuo Sausdravo. At that time, we had no plans to establish a kennel. However, people involved in cynology repeatedly emphasised that our hound was an exceptionally beautiful example of the breed and encouraged us to participate in dog shows. So, we decided to give it a try. To our great surprise, the judges evaluated her very highly. That marked the beginning of Naida’s journey toward championship titles and our own entry into the world of responsible dog breeding.

Dog breeding is about far more than simply producing litters. First and foremost, it is about dedicated work with the dog and with the breed as a whole. Although meeting the minimum requirements is enough to breed legally, for us that is simply not enough. Whenever time allows, we participate in various dog shows, communicate with international judges, and engage with others who share an interest in this breed. Our dogs have repeatedly taken first places in their groups and have earned numerous titles. Puppies bred by us are also actively participate in different cynological activities. At the same time, we never overlook its working abilities, one of the most important traits of the Lithuanian Hound, and we make every effort within our means to preserve and maintain them.

The kennel is primarily run by the two of us — Marius ir Anželika Smetonos. But now, our children are gradually becoming part of it as well. We are both Doctors of the Humanities, which is why the establishment of our kennel was never a rushed decision: everything was carefully considered, discussed, and thoroughly read. To this day, we continue to deepen our knowledge of dogs in order to raise the best possible Lithuanian Hounds and to provide informed guidance to those who choose this breed. We participate in various seminars and training courses on canine genetics, training, health, and related topics. In addition, Marius is often invited to take part in television programs, deliver public lectures about the Lithuanian Hound, and represent the Lithuanian Hound Keepers’ Association (LSAS) at different events and celebrations, such as Animal Welfare Days and Dog Days. Whenever possible, we contribute to the international recognition of the Lithuanian Hound. Even our professional work is closely connected to the breed as we have published a scientific article titled “Lietuvos”, “lietuvių” or “lietuviškas skalikas”: problems of using dog breed names” in an academic journal. Perhaps our most significant contribution in this field is the first-ever book on the Lithuanian Hound, co-authored with a colleague. As a token of appreciation from the LSAS for this publication, a painting of a Lithuanian Hound (by artist Vaiva Barzdenytė) was presented to us. Later it was displayed for six months at the History House exhibition dedicated to dogs and titled “History Wags Its Tail.”

Raising Lithuanian Hounds is our passion, not a source of profit. From the very first days of their lives, we strive to provide our puppies with the very best conditions and carefully select responsible, loving owners for them. We are always ready to provide advice and ongoing support to the families who choose our dogs.

(Photos from the personal album, the Lithuanian Cynological Society, and Kristina Kuodienė)