The German Hound is not well known outside of Germany. However, it is an excellent hunter and a good companion dog. Although he is hardly docile, he is gentle and affectionate with his master, his family and children. It must be able to benefit from optimal conditions to blossom: large spaces. It is not recommended for sedentary or elderly people, because they could not satisfy his need for outings. It has a very robust health and does not require any particular maintenance.
History of the breed
The German Hound breed was obtained by merging, towards the end of the 19th century, the Westphalian Hound with various varieties of Steinbracken. The Deutschen Bracken Club was founded in 1886, bringing together all the Brackens of northwest Germany. Outside of its region of origin and Germany, the German Bracken remains uncommon today. It continues to be used primarily as a hunting dog. The breed of the German Hound was recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) on January 28, 1964.
Physical characteristics
Its coat: short, hard to the touch, very dense even on the belly. Longer and forming a light brush on the inside of the tail. Forming a breech on the thighs.
Its color: red to fawn, associated with a black coat, as well as white markings.
Its head: long, light, dry. The skull is slightly rounded, a little wider than the cheeks, which blend harmoniously into the muzzle. The occipital protuberance is only slightly pronounced. The stop is very little marked.
Ears: of good length and rather broad, their end is rounded.
Its eyes : of dark color, showing a rather soft expression.
Its body : the neck is moderately long and relatively strong, the croup a little falling, the high chest, the ribs very slightly arched, the rib cage long and the abdomen slightly raised.
Its tail : long, not very thick, covered with a long and bushy hair, finished in point.
Education
Although nice and attached to his master, the German Hound is not the easiest dog to train. Obedience is not his strong point. This implies that he must receive an early and firm education from his youngest age. His master must know how to combine firmness and softness to get the best out of him. The accent must be put on his socialization and recall, especially if this dog is destined to hunting parties. He will have to learn all the basic rules to become a first choice hunter.
Living conditions
The German Hound is a dog that prefers above all to live outdoors, in large spaces where he can fully express his hunting instincts. Nevertheless, he can adapt to the life in apartment, provided that he is given the attention and the activity he needs. He needs space, large areas of grass or mountains. He must be able to run every day. His daily walks must be long. His garden should be rather large if possible.
Health
The German Hound is a hardy dog with a robust constitution. He is not afraid of almost anything as far as health is concerned, but the configuration of his ears must incite to prudence as for the risk of otitis.