Bavarian Mountain Hound

 

Summary

• Bavarian game tracking dog is a dog particularly suitable for searching.
• The breed is mobile, energetic and always seeking contact with its handler and family.
• It is ideal for those who are interested in searching for injured game and want a band dog for moose and deer.
• Bavarian game sled dog is reserved towards strangers, strongly attached to its owner and a distinctly solitary dog.
• In terms of appearance, the breed is harmonious, light, mobile and muscular.

Characteristics/Mentality

Bavarian game tracker is a very contact-seeking dog towards its handler and family. This is crucial for its function as a search dog. It does not enjoy being in a kennel for a long time or being left to its own devices. The dog is a family member and works best when it is allowed to be part of the family.When searching for injured game in the forest, it shows an energetic and game-sharp side that is different from family life. The breed is ideal for those who have a special interest in searching and want a band dog for moose and deer. It is also very active and has an intense personality. Searching for injured game requires a dog with persistence, stubbornness and a solid psyche.Bavarian game hounds have been bred over generations to have this mentality, which is necessary for optimal functioning. The interaction between dog and handler, and their ability to work closely together, is crucial for maximum performance during searches.

Size/Appearance

The breed is a harmonious, light, highly mobile and muscular medium-sized dog. The body is longer than it is tall, with a somewhat high back and a horizontal or slightly downward-pointing tail. Male dogs have a height of 47-52 cm, and bitches have a height of 44-48 cm.

Fur grooming

Bavarian game hounds have an easy-care coat and are bathed when necessary.

History

The Bavarian game tracking dog was developed to meet the need for a lighter and more approachable dog than the Hanoverian to search for injured game in the German and Austrian Alps. The game tracking dog is an old type of dog in Europe and has remained almost unchanged since the time of the Celts. It was used as a hunting and tracking dog together with the Kelterbracken.At the end of the 19th century, Alpine dusters such as Brandelbracke and Tirolerbracke were crossed into this dog type. The offspring from these crossings were purebred to the Bavarian game sled as we know it today. It has a lighter bone structure than the Hanoverian and longer bones than the Bracks. Bavarian game tracking dog is a pure Schweisshund, specialized in searching for hoofed game. Today, it is the most widespread Swiss dog breed in Norway.

Want to know more about the breed?

In general, it is recommended to contact the breed club for more information about the Bavarian game sled. You can also read the RAS document, which gives a good overview of the breed’s status and the club’s breeding focus. The breed standard is also important to read for those considering buying a puppy of this breed.Good luck!