German Hunting Terrier
The German Hunting Terrier, also known as the Jagdterrier, is a versatile hunting dog breed known for its tenacity, courage, and relentless pursuit of game. The German Hunting Terrier was developed in Germany in the early 20th century by a group of enthusiasts who wanted a hunting dog with true terrier characteristics. They started their breeding program in the 1920s using a mix of the English Fox Terrier and the Welsh Terrier. They aimed to create a breed that was fearless, small enough to go to ground in dens, and suitable for hunting a variety of game, including foxes, badgers, and wild boar.
- Origin
- Germany
- Alternate Names
- Jagdterrier, Deutscher Jagdterrier
- Life Expectancy
- 10-12 years
- Average Male Height
- 13-16 inches
- Average Female Height
- 13-16 inches
- Average Male Weight
- 20-22 pounds
- Average Female Weight
- 17-19 pounds
- Coat Length
- Short
- Coat Type
- Wiry, Smooth, Rough
- Coat Colors
- Black, Black & Gray, Dark Brown
- Coat Pattern
- Tan Markings
Genetic Predispositions and Health
German Hunting Terriers can suffer from centronuclear myopathy, exercise-induced metabolic myopathy, footpad hyperkeratosis, hyperuricosuria, and primary lens luxation. Genetic testing is recommended, including for the following additional conditions: hyperuricosoria, degenerative myelopathy, and progressive rod-cone degeneration.
Personality and Behavior
German Hunting Terriers are fearless, energetic, and intelligent dogs. They're known for their tenacity and are never shy or nervous. They're loyal to their owners and protective of their family, but they can be reserved with strangers. Training them requires consistency, as they can be stubborn. Their high energy and intelligence mean they require plenty of mental and physical stimulation. They are not recommended for inexperienced dog owners.
Fun Facts
Jagdterrier in German means 'hunt terrier'.
Despite their small size, German Hunting Terriers have been known to take on much larger game. They were bred to be fearless and won't back down, even in the face of a wild boar.
The German Hunting Terrier is sometimes referred to as the "little black and tan" due to its typical black and tan coat color, although they can also be found in other colors like black and gray, and even a rare dark brown.
They have a robust waterproof double coat that helps protect them in various weather conditions and in the water. These dogs are excellent swimmers and can be used for water hunting.
References
Doi:10.1002/9781119540687 https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/jagdterrier/ https://www.ukcdogs.com/jagdterrier
https://www.fci.be/Nomenclature/Standards/103g03-en.pdf