"Hound" is honestly a term that's not used enough tbh.
A hound has a handler, like any dog. A hound is obedient, yes, and a hound knows its handler is in control. But a hound is not naïve and up for anything like a puppy, and it doesn't obey out of fear or snap back like a mutt.
A hound is trained, efficient, respectful, and most importantly, intelligent. A hound knows its purpose, knows what its handler wants, and a hound knows that if it really, truly wanted, it probably could break free from its handler, run off on its own. It also knows that even if it survived its escape attempt and reached "freedom," it would be helpless. A hound can't sustain itself on its own. Can't hunt without the handler's guidance, can't treat its own injuries.
A hound, a proper hound, intentionally chooses to stay with its handler, to be obedient. It wears its muzzle and collar with pride. And in return, its handler respects its strength, treats it well. It's not equal to Them, of course. But it's much better than the mutts, the pups, the basic dogs who don't know any better. And that's more than enough to keep a hound happy.
