Alpine dachsbracke

Summary

The Alpine Dachsbracke, also known as the Alpenländische Dachsbracke, is a distinctive and versatile dog breed originating from Austria. They are medium-sized dogs known for their strong hunting abilities and exceptional tracking skills.

Alpine Dachsbrackes have a sturdy build and a strong, elongated body. They have a slightly arched head with a broad skull and a well-defined stop. Their eyes are dark and expressive, and their long ears hang down close to their head. They have a muscular neck and a deep chest.

These dogs are recognized for their incredible sense of smell, which makes them excellent scent hounds. As hunting dogs, they have been traditionally used for tracking game like foxes, wild boars, and deer. They are able to work in various terrains, including rugged mountainous regions.

In terms of temperament, the Alpine Dachsbracke is known to be loyal, intelligent, and determined. They are highly trainable and possess a strong work ethic. While they were primarily bred for hunting, they can also make loving and friendly family pets. However, they do require an experienced owner who can provide them with proper training, socialization, and sufficient mental and physical exercise.

Overall, the Alpine Dachsbracke is a versatile, passionate, and athletic breed. They thrive in active households and enjoy being a part of the family. With the right care and guidance, they can make excellent companions for those who appreciate their hunting heritage and are willing to provide them with the mental and physical stimulation they require.

Usage areas

The Alpine Dachsbracke is a small-sized breed of hunting dogs that originated in Austria. They are primarily used for tracking wounded game, assisting hunters in various terrains, and retrieving game in mountainous regions. Here are some usage areas where the Alpine Dachsbracke excels:

1. Tracking: This breed has a keen sense of smell and exceptional tracking abilities. They are particularly skilled in trailing wounded game such as deer, boar, and even smaller animals like rabbits and foxes. Their compact size allows them to navigate through dense forests and rocky terrains with relative ease.

2. Hunting in Alpine regions: As the name suggests, the Alpine Dachsbracke is well-suited for hunting in the mountainous regions of Austria and nearby areas. They are able to maneuver through steep slopes, rocky cliffs, and dense undergrowth to pursue game effectively.

3. Versatility: These dogs are known for their versatility in hunting different types of game. They can track scent trails, flush out game from hiding spots, and retrieve downed game on command. Due to their intelligence and adaptability, they can be trained for various hunting activities, making them a valuable asset in the field.

4. Companion hunting dog: Along with their hunting abilities, Alpine Dachsbrackes also make good companion dogs for hunters. They are loyal, friendly, and have a strong bond with their owners. These qualities make them suitable for both professional and recreational hunters who seek a reliable and devoted canine hunting partner.

Overall, the Alpine Dachsbracke is a multi-purpose hunting breed with a strong sense of smell, agility, and determination. Their distinctive short legs and long bodies allow them to excel in tracking and hunting in challenging terrains, making them highly valued for their hunting skills in the Alpine regions and beyond.

Mentality

The Alpine Dachsbracke is a small-sized hunting dog breed originating from Austria. Known for its determined and independent nature, this breed possesses a unique mentality that is key to its hunting abilities.

Mentally, the Alpine Dachsbracke is highly focused and relentless when it comes to tracking scents and chasing game. They possess exceptional scenting abilities and a strong prey drive, which makes them highly effective hunters. Their mental capacity allows them to stay focused on the task at hand, even in challenging terrain or adverse weather conditions.

While the Alpine Dachsbracke is primarily a hunting dog, they also exhibit a gentle and affectionate demeanor towards their human companions. They are known to form strong bonds with their owners and require ample socialization and companionship to thrive. They are loyal and protective, making them excellent family pets and watchdogs.

Due to their independent nature, Alpine Dachsbrackes can sometimes display stubbornness. Training and socialization from an early age are crucial to ensure they develop into well-behaved and obedient companions. It is important for owners to provide consistent and firm leadership without being overly harsh, as these dogs respond best to positive reinforcement and reward-based training methods.

Additionally, the Alpine Dachsbracke is a highly active breed that requires regular mental and physical stimulation. Engaging in activities such as long walks, jogging, hiking, and participating in canine sports can help them expend their energy and prevent behavioral issues due to boredom or frustration.

Overall, the mentality of the Alpine Dachsbracke is that of a determined, independent, and focused hunting dog. With proper training, socialization, and an outlet for their energy, they can make wonderful companions for active individuals or families who enjoy spending time outdoors.

Health

The Alpine Dachsbracke is a small, sturdy breed of dog that originated in Austria and is known for its exceptional scenting abilities. When it comes to health, the Alpine Dachsbracke is generally a relatively healthy breed with a lifespan of approximately 12-15 years.

One important health consideration for the Alpine Dachsbracke is their susceptibility to hip dysplasia. This is a condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to pain, stiffness, and eventually arthritis. Responsible breeders will conduct hip evaluations on their breeding dogs to reduce the risk of passing this condition on to their offspring.

As with all dog breeds, regular veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection and prevention of any potential health issues. It is recommended to stay up to date with vaccinations, as well as maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine to help keep the Alpine Dachsbracke in good health.

Since the Alpine Dachsbracke has a long, droopy ears, it's important to keep them clean and dry to avoid any potential ear infections. Regular grooming, including brushing their coat and dental care, is also necessary to maintain their overall well-being.

Overall, the Alpine Dachsbracke is a hardy breed with relatively few known breed-specific health concerns. However, responsible ownership, proper healthcare, and regular exercise are key to ensuring the health and happiness of any Alpine Dachsbracke.

Size and looks

The Alpine Dachsbracke is a small to medium-sized hunting dog breed. It has a short but sturdy body with a long, strong neck and strong, straight legs. This breed has a somewhat elongated head and a pronounced stop, with their slightly tapered muzzle ending in a black nose.

The eyes of the Alpine Dachsbracke are medium-sized and have a lively expression. They usually come in dark brown color. Their medium-sized ears are set high, hanging flat against the cheeks and covered with soft, velvety fur.

The coat of an Alpine Dachsbracke is dense and coarse, providing protection from the weather and underbrush when hunting. The breed typically has a tricolor coat pattern, consisting of a dark to light black and tan or red-brown color, with white markings on the chest, throat, paws, and tip of the tail.

In terms of size, Alpine Dachsbrackes are medium-sized dogs. They typically stand at around 12 to 14 inches (30 to 36 cm) tall at the shoulder and weigh between 33 to 40 pounds (15 to 18 kg). They are muscular and compact, well-suited for maneuvering through rugged terrain during hunts.

History

The Alpine Dachsbracke, also known as the Alpenländische Dachsbracke or simply the Alpine Brachet, is a small scent hound breed that originated in Austria. Developed primarily for tracking wounded game, particularly in the mountainous regions of the Austrian Alps, this breed has a long history dating back several centuries.

The Alpine Dachsbracke's ancestors can be traced back to ancient hunting dogs that were brought into the region by the Celts and Romans. These dogs were later crossed with various local scent hound breeds, resulting in the development of the Alpine Dachsbracke as we know it today.

Originally, the Alpine Dachsbracke was primarily used for hunting in the dense forests and rugged terrain of the Alps, where it proved to be adept at tracking wounded game, such as deer and boar. This breed's compact size, powerful nose, and excellent stamina made it well-suited for this task.

Over the years, the Alpine Dachsbracke gained popularity not only as a hunting companion but also as a beloved family pet. Its friendly and affectionate nature, along with its adaptability to different environments, contributed to its appeal beyond the hunting community.

While the breed faced a decline in numbers during the two World Wars due to the turmoil and shifting priorities, dedicated breed enthusiasts ensured its survival. Today, the Alpine Dachsbracke remains relatively rare outside of its native Austria but continues to be appreciated for its hunting skills, charming personality, and loyalty as a family pet.

Whether you're a passionate hunter or a loving pet owner, the Alpine Dachsbracke is a fascinating breed that embodies the rich history and character of the Austrian Alps.

Fur care

The Alpine Dachsbracke, also known as the Alpenländische Dachsbracke or simply the Dachsbracke, has a short, dense, and coarse double coat that provides good protection against cold weather and rough terrain. The fur is considered easy to care for, requiring moderate grooming.

To maintain the coat's condition, regular brushing with a firm-bristled brush or a grooming mitt can help remove loose hair and keep the coat looking clean and healthy. This breed is a seasonal shedder and typically sheds more heavily during spring and fall. During these times, more frequent brushing might be necessary to manage the shedding.

Bathing should be done as needed, using a mild dog shampoo. It is important to avoid over-bathing, as it can strip the natural oils from the coat, causing dryness and skin issues. Regularly checking the ears, teeth, and nails, and maintaining them appropriately, is essential for overall grooming and health.

Overall, the Alpine Dachsbracke's fur is relatively low-maintenance, but regular grooming and care will help keep them comfortable and looking their best.

Other info

The Alpine Dachsbracke is a small-sized breed of scent hound that originated in Austria. Here are some additional information and fun facts about this unique dog breed:

1. Purpose: Originally bred for hunting small game, especially in the mountainous regions of the Austrian Alps, the Alpine Dachsbracke is primarily used as a tracking and scent hound. They have excellent scenting abilities and are skilled at tracking wounded game.

2. Appearance: Alpine Dachsbrackes have a compact, muscular body, with a slightly long back and short legs. They typically have a broad head, short muzzle, and large, expressive eyes. Their coat is smooth, dense, and usually comes in a distinctive combination of black and tan markings.

3. Size: These dogs are classified as small-sized breeds. On average, a male Alpine Dachsbracke stands about 13 to 14 inches (33-36 cm) tall at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller.

4. Temperament: The Alpine Dachsbracke is known for being friendly, loyal, and intelligent. They possess a strong hunting instinct, which can make them independent and determined when it comes to tracking scents. Early socialization and consistent training are essential to ensure they become well-rounded and obedient companions.

5. Family Dogs: Although primarily bred for hunting, Alpine Dachsbrackes can make loving and loyal family companions. They are generally good with children and other animals if they are properly socialized from an early age. However, it is important to remember that their hunting instincts may lead them to chase small animals.

6. Exercise Needs: Like all dogs, Alpine Dachsbrackes need regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Daily walks, playtime, and opportunities to explore their environment are essential. They enjoy outdoor activities and are particularly fond of sniffing and tracking scents.

7. Health: Overall, Alpine Dachsbrackes are a healthy breed. However, like any dog breed, they can be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, and ear infections. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and proper grooming can help maintain their overall health and well-being.

Remember, if you are considering adding an Alpine Dachsbracke to your family, it is important to do thorough research, speak with reputable breeders or rescue organizations, and ensure that you have the time, resources, and commitment to meet their needs.