MS M.1044, fols. 38v–39r

Running Hounds
Because the running hound (chien courant) had unique qualities, Phoebus ranked it highest. These hounds would run in packs and follow game by scent and at a distance, unlike greyhounds, which would follow by sight. (Pointers and setters did the same.) There were several kinds of running hounds. Some would bark and chase prey until the kill; others would remain silent unless the hart had changed direction and they were again on scent. Here they stand, sit, sniff, fight, leap, and suckle three young. The beagle, which did not exist during the medieval era, was the result of cross-breeding the larger dogs pictured here.