The Rastreador Brasileiro (Brazilian Tracker) is a rare scenthound breed developed in Brazil for tracking and hunting in the rugged countryside.
It was created in the early 20th century by blending various European and American coonhound, foxhound, and scenthound types with local Brazilian dogs. The goal was to produce a resilient, determined, and versatile tracking dog suited to Brazil’s challenging terrains and climates.
The breed was officially recognized by the Brazilian Kennel Club (CBKC) in 1967 and briefly by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). Sadly, a devastating distemper outbreak and a tick infestation wiped out nearly the entire population by the 1970s.
Through passionate revival efforts, the Rastreador Brasileiro has been brought back from extinction, and a small but committed group of breeders continues to preserve it.
This breed remains extremely rare even within Brazil.
It is known mostly among hunting circles, working dog enthusiasts, and breed conservationists. Internationally, the Rastreador is practically unknown, though awareness is growing as part of broader interest in rare and revived breeds.
The Rastreador Brasileiro is a medium-to-large, athletic scenthound built for endurance and stamina.
• Height: 23–27 inches (58–68 cm)
• Weight: 55–80 pounds (25–36 kg)
• Build: Balanced and muscular, not bulky
• Coat: Short, dense, and weather-resistant
• Colors: Blue mottled (blue-ticked), black and tan, or tricolor
• Head: Slightly domed with a strong, square muzzle
• Eyes: Dark, oval, and expressive
• Ears: Long, drooping, set low, aiding in scent collection
• Tail: Long and slightly curved, carried low
It’s a classic scenthound appearance, built for work rather than show.
This breed’s personality is all about scent and drive — paired with a calm, affectionate nature at home.
• Tenacious Tracker: Relentless when on the trail
• Independent: Makes its own decisions when tracking
• Gentle and Devoted: Loving and easygoing with family
• Social: Gets along well with other dogs, particularly other hounds
• Vocal: Has a distinct bay when on scent
Expect a dog that’s focused and determined outdoors, yet friendly and relaxed indoors.
The Rastreador is an excellent companion for those who want a working hound that can double as a gentle housemate.
Ideal for:
• Hunters and trackers
• Active families who enjoy outdoor activities
• Hound enthusiasts
• Homes with large fenced yards
Not ideal for:
• Apartment dwellers (they need room to roam)
• Owners who dislike a dog that barks or bays
• Inactive households
• Exercise: Needs daily walks and opportunities to explore scents
• Training: Best with positive reinforcement; stubbornness can appear if training is harsh
• Grooming: Minimal — occasional brushing to remove dead hair
• Living Environment: Needs a fenced area; an unsecured hound will follow a scent for miles
• Feeding: Standard balanced diet for active medium-to-large breeds
As a revived breed, the Rastreador’s long-term health profile is still developing. Current known issues include:
• Hip dysplasia
• Ear infections (due to long, drooping ears)
• Bloat (gastric torsion)
Life expectancy is around 10–12 years, with good care and regular vet checks.
• American Bluetick Coonhound: Very similar in appearance and working style; the Rastreador is slightly less heavy.
• Black and Tan Coonhound: Comparable scenting ability, but the Rastreador may have a softer temperament.
• Foxhound: Similar build, though the Rastreador is usually more single-minded on a trail.
Choose the Rastreador if you’re looking for a serious tracker who is low-key and affectionate at home. Be prepared to accommodate its scent-following instinct and active outdoor needs.
Avoid this breed if you want an obedient off-leash dog without intense training, or if you live in a small, scent-poor environment.
Breeding programs are mainly based in Brazil. Interested owners may need to import carefully through ethical breeders committed to maintaining the breed’s working ability and health. United Pet Club can assist with travel documents, pet passports, and microchip registrations.