History

The Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound, also known as Bayerischer Gebirgsschweißhund, is a loyal and intelligent breed originally developed in Germany in the early 20th Century for tracking wounded game. Historically, they have been used in hunting due to their keen sense of smell and ability to work in challenging terrains, such as steep mountain slopes.

The breed's most notable trait is its outstanding "cold nose" tracking ability. His nose is so acute, he can distinguish between the injured game he is hunting and other animals of the same species.

In 1912 the Club for Bavarian Mountain Scenthounds was founded with its seat in Munich. It is the only recognized Club for Bavarian Mountain Scenthounds in Germany.

Appearance

Size: Medium-sized dogs, with males standing between 47-52 cm and females between 44-48 cm).

Weight: Males: 20-30kg. Females: 17-25kg

Coat: They have a short, dense, or wiry coat that can come in various colours, including deep red, deer red, reddish brown, tan, also clear fawn to biscuit colour, reddish grey as the winter coat of a deer, also brindled or interspersed with black hairs. The basic colour on the back is generally more intense, muzzle and leathers dark. Tail, mostly, interspersed with dark hair. Small light-coloured patch on chest (“Bracken Star”) permitted.

Temperament & Behaviour

Loyal and Devoted: Bavarian Mountain Hounds are known for their loyalty to their owners and can be reserved around strangers. They thrive on companionship and are not suited to being kennel dogs.

Intelligent and Trainable: This breed is highly intelligent, making them relatively easy to train, especially when provided with consistent and positive reinforcement.

Bavarians are social, intelligent dogs, and, much like other breeds, if not kept mentally stimulated they will become bored, unhappy and destructive.

 
Suitability

This somewhat lightweight, active, medium-sized breed is devoted to his owner, but can be reserved with strangers.

The Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound is a versatile and dedicated breed that excels in both hunting and as a family companion. Their loyalty, intelligence, and exercise needs make them a great choice for active households willing to invest time in training and care. If you're considering adding one to your family, be prepared for a loving and energetic companion.

Most are owned and used by foresters and game wardens. If not placed in a working home, the Bavarian will need an abundant amount of physical and mental stimulation to satisfy his high hunting instinct. He is not a kennel dog, but can be trained to sleep and eat there. Space to run and play in an area with a high fence is important.

The Bavarian requires regular brushing. His coat is dense, close fitting and harsh, with little gloss, and is finer on the head and ears, and harsher and longer on the belly, legs and tail. The breed's strong, fast-growing nails should be trimmed regularly and their ears should be checked regularly to avoid a wax buildup and debris, which can result in infection.

Health

Like many breeds, they may be prone to certain health issues, so regular veterinary check-ups are essential to ensure their well-being.

In Conclusion

Now you know a little about the Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound, you may think that this is the dog for you. Before you make a decision, please make contact with either the breed club or your State controlling body for purebred dogs. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog shows where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound and its needs, and whether this breed would suit your lifestyle.