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A scent hound is a type of dog bred to hunt by following a scent. These dogs possess an exceptional sense of smell, with some breeds, like the Bloodhound, having significantly more scent receptors than humans. Their physical characteristics, such as long ears and loose skin, can help trap and hold scents close to their face.123

Scent hounds are trained to detect scents in the air or on the ground. Breeds like the Bloodhound have been used in law enforcement and their evidence has even been admissible in court. The term "sleuthhound," meaning a detective, is derived from the Bloodhound's tracking abilities.423

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