Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound
Quick Summary
Skilled tracking dogs best suited for experienced owners who can provide ample exercise and training. Ideal for rural settings with access to tracking activities.
Contents
Weight Range
37-66 lbs
♂ Male: 37-66 lbs
♀ Female: 37-66 lbs
Height Range
43-52 inches
♂ Male: 17-21"
♀ Female: 17-21"
Life Expectancy
12-15 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #68
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Foundation Stock Service
Originally bred for Developed in Bavaria during the 1870s for tracking wounded game in mountainous terrain
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 17"-20.5" |
| Female Height | 17"-20.5" |
| Male Weight | 37-66 lbs |
| Female Weight | 37-66 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 2/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($1000-2000), supplies, and medical screenings. Monthly expenses cover quality food, preventive care, and routine vet visits. Consider training costs and potential health expenses.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Reserved yet loyal dogs with strong tracking instincts. Moderate energy levels requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation. Generally good with family but can be aloof with strangers. Shows strong work ethic and determination.
Social Needs
Moderately social breed requiring regular family interaction. Generally good with other dogs but may need early socialization. Can tolerate some alone time with proper training and exercise.
Breed Overview
Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds possess a sturdy, muscular build with a distinctive short double coat in various shades of red. Their keen nose and athletic physique reflect their heritage as skilled tracking dogs. Standing 17-20.5 inches at the shoulder, they display a balanced, proportionate frame with strong legs and a noble head carriage. Their temperament combines loyalty with natural hunting instincts.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent tracking abilities
- ✓ Loyal companion
- ✓ Good endurance
- ✓ Versatile working dog
Cons
- ✗ Requires extensive exercise
- ✗ Strong prey drive
- ✗ Reserved with strangers
- ✗ Needs experienced handler
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Loyal, Versatile, Reserved with Strangers |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Agreeable |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Regularly |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise including tracking activities, hiking, and structured walks. Moderate to high intensity level needed to satisfy both physical and mental stimulation requirements. Benefits from scent work and trailing exercises.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 2-3 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention needed for weight management and energy requirements based on activity level. Premium protein sources recommended.
Feed 2-3 cups of high-quality dry food daily, split into two meals. Adjust portions based on activity level and age. Include protein-rich ingredients suitable for working dogs. Monitor weight to prevent obesity.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Best suited for homes with secure yards and access to tracking areas. Adapts well to rural or suburban settings with adequate space for exercise. Tolerates moderate climates best.
Requires moderate to large living space with secure outdoor access. Adapts well to rural or suburban environments. Needs room for exercise and mental stimulation. Fenced yard highly recommended.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds emerged in the mountainous regions of Bavaria in the late 19th century. Local hunters developed the breed specifically for tracking wounded game across challenging alpine terrain, prizing their exceptional scenting abilities.
Historical Purpose
Developed in Bavaria during the 1870s for tracking wounded game in mountainous terrain. Expert scent hounds valued for their precise tracking abilities in challenging landscapes.
Fun Fact
Their exceptional nose can track week-old scent trails across challenging mountain terrain.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular ear cleaning needed due to drooping ears. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Health screening for common breed issues recommended.