They were notable for chasing slaves. It is not known when the dog was considered a specific breed, but by 1803 it is described thus by Robert Dallas: "The animal is the size of a very large hound, with ears erect, which are usually cropped at the points; the nose more pointed, but widening very much towards the after-part of the jaw.
This dog breed gained notoriety for its role in capturing slaves. Although its exact origins are unknown, by 1803 it was described by Robert Dallas as follows: "The animal is the size of a very large hound, with erect ears that are typically cropped at the tips; its nose is more pointed but widens substantially towards the back of the jaw.