Westphalian Dachsbracke
10-12 yrs
30-35 lbs
12-15"
Germany

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Westphalian Dachsbracke

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Westphalian Dachsbracke

30-35 lbs

12-15"

Germany

Westphalian Hound

The Westphalian Dachsbracke is a short legged small to medium sized dog of German origin. It is believed that the German Hound was crossed with a Dachshund to produce this new shorter breed. They make an ideal hunting dog as they are low to the ground and can penetrate burrows, dens and caves. This dog can track their prey for hours, they are a tenacious hunter. The Westphalian is very courageous, and will often take on game animals that are much bigger that themselves and are known as an excellent hunter of wild boar. But don't be fooled by the dog's hunting ability, they are a friendly dog who loves to play games with the family and who has a bit of a mischievous streak as well. With their balanced temperament, they make a great family pet and companion but do need a secure back yard where they can run without a leash. They need to burn their abundant energy and will need to be walked each day. This dog only requires minimal grooming and a bath on an 'as needed' basis. Affectionate, stubborn, intelligent and calm, the Westphalian Dachsbracke is a small dog in size, but large in personality.

                
                Purpose
              
Scenthound, Hunting, Companion

                Date of Origin
              
1886

                Ancestry
              
German Hound, Dachshund

Westphalian Dachsbracke Health

Average Size

Height: 12-15 inches Weight: 30-35 lbs

Major Concerns

Spinal Issues

Minor Concerns

Ear Infections
Obesity

Occasional Diagnoses

Eye Problems

Occasional Tests

Ear Examination
Optical Examination
Internal Imaging (x-ray, CT scan, MRI, etc.)
Blood And Urine Analysis
Full Body Examination

Westphalian Dachsbracke Breed History

The Westphalian Dachsbracke originated from the Westphalia region of Germany which is the area between the Rhine and Weser rivers. While the origins of the breed are uncertain, it seems most likely that they result from crossing of the German Hound with the Dachshund. The mountains in Germany teem with small to large game. The Westphalian Dachsbracke was developed to do what the larger Brackes dogs found hard to do, and that was to follow the game into the deep low undergrowth and into burrows and caves to flush out the game. This dog is valued for their excellent scenting ability, and their tenacious, superb hunting instincts. Although this breed has been noted to exist since the 17th Century, the first breed description was only formalized in 1886 by Ludwig Beckmann and Otto Grashley. The first standard was finally set in 1910. It was these two dog fanciers that called the breed the Westphalian Dachsbracke. The breed was recognized by the German Kennel Club in 1935. Then, in 1987 The Westphalian Dachsbracke finally was recognized by the Federation Cynologique Internationale which made it more internationally known than before. But despite being a dog that is highly valued by German Royalty as both a hunter and a companion, and despite their attractive appearance, the breed is rarely seen in dog shows. Now considered a rare breed, this attractive dog is fighting a battle to hold their own. With such a steady reliable temperament, attractive appearance, and affectionate nature, the Westphalian Dachsbracke should be a popular dog. Perhaps this clever dog just needs promoting to raise people's awareness to them and all their delightful traits?

Westphalian Dachsbracke Breed Appearance

The Westphalian Dachsbracke is a small, short legged scenthound and originates from Westphalia which is a region of Germany. They are a short version of the Deutsche Bracke dog and were developed to hunt rabbits and foxes and either chase the game back to the owner or hold it at bay until the owner could catch up. Their strong sturdy short legs are deceptively fast, and they stand up to 15 inches high at the withers. The long body has a deep chest and is well muscled. Their tail is long and is set high and carried up. Round well padded paws give instant traction and allow speed when running over uneven terrain. This breed has a thick neck topped by an elegant head and pointed muzzle. Their long drooping ears and large round eyes give them a friendly, alert appearance. The Westphalian Dachsbracke comes in a tricolor coat (red to yellow with a black saddle), and they have attractive white markings called Bracken marks - such as a white muzzle, chest, legs, collar and tip of the tail, and is completed with a white blaze on the head. Attractive, friendly and gentle with children, they do get along well with other pets but can be tempted to chase smaller, fast moving animals so supervise at all times.

Eye Color Possibilities

Brown

Amber

Nose Color Possibilities

Black

Coat Color Possibilities

Pied

Black

Red

Fawn

White

Coat Length

Short Medium Long

Coat Density

Sparse Normal Dense

Coat Texture

Straight Wiry Wavy Curly Corded

Westphalian Dachsbracke Breed Maintenance

The Westphalian Dachsbracke has a dense, coarse coat that only requires a weekly brushing and a bath when needed. Their coat does shed, but because it is short it is relatively easy to maintain. They have medium length drop ears that need to be checked for inflammation or infection. It’s easy to gently wipe out the inner ear with a damp cloth to keep this area clean. Your dog will enjoy a regular maintenance schedule, lapping up the attention. If you decide to bathe your Westphalian Dachsbracke, use a gentle dog shampoo that has been designed to carefully clean without stripping away the dog's natural coat oils. This oil helps to shield them when they are out in all types of weather. Younger dogs will get quite playful and mischievous with bathing, so be prepared to get soaked! Training needs to begin right at puppyhood, as they are a lively breed. Include teeth brushing (using a dog toothpaste) in your young dog's training which will make the chore easier when they mature. Give this playful pup plenty of exercise, brushing, training and a job to do and this dog will be in doggie heaven.

Brushes for Westphalian Dachsbracke

Pin Brush

Slicker Brush

Deshedder

Nail Clipper

Brushing Frequency

Daily Weekly Monthly

Westphalian Dachsbracke Temperament

Born to hunt, the Westphalian Dachsbracke is a serious dog on the hunt, but is mischievous at home. They adapt well as a companion dog as long as they get plenty of daily exercise and things to do. A busy dog is often a good dog, so keep this little dog busy with tasks to perform and they will stay out of trouble. They get along well with children, being kind and gentle. Their friendly nature extends to other dogs and some pets as well - just be aware that they love to chase small furry prey like animals such as the neighbor's cat. Start socializing this dog from the moment they are born to avoid, or at least control, this instinct. They love an active family life, and will happily accompany you on any outing. Do keep them on a leash in case they get a great scent and take off. Once they are in hunt mode, they can be hard to get back. A firm owner is best with this dog, to avoid small dog syndrome where they think they are the boss. Avoid harsh training methods; kindness and patience will often win you the battle. Tire this active dog out and they will happily snooze at your side, although they will still be active in their dreams, woofing and whining in their sleep!

Westphalian Dachsbracke Activity Requirements

The Westphalian Dachsbracke was developed to be a hunter, so they love to hunt. If they can't hunt they will need plenty of exercise to wear off their abundant energy. They need to have their minds exercised as well, so set them up some challenging tasks. This is a dog that requires a good long walk each day, not just a stroll. The perfect home for this dog is one with a good sized yard that they can patrol and investigate. The Westphalian Dachsbracke can be a good running companion but keep in mind that they only have short legs, so don't get too far ahead of them. It is best to keep them on a leash when out, as they love to chase small moving animals that they consider prey. Once in hunt mode, they can be gone like a puff of wind! The Westphalian Dachsbracke responds well to training, although they do have a stubborn streak that can get in the way. Patience, kindness and firm but pleasant handling will get you through.

Activity Level

                  Low
                  Medium
                  High
                
Rec. Walk Mileage Per Week
16 miles

Minutes of Activity Per Day
120 minutes

Similar Maintenance Breeds to Westphalian Dachsbracke

Similarly Sized Breeds to Westphalian Dachsbracke

Westphalian Dachsbracke Food Consumption

Cups Per Day
2.5 cups
Daily Cost
$1.20 - $1.40
Monthly Cost
$34.00 - $45.00

Westphalian Dachsbracke Height & Weight

6 Months

                  Height: 9.0 inches
                  Weight: 13.0 lbs
                
                  Height: 9.0 inches
                  Weight: 13.0 lbs
                
12 Months

                  Height: 12.0 inches
                  Weight: 18.5 lbs
                
                  Height: 12.0 inches
                  Weight: 18.5 lbs
                
18 Months

                  Height: 14.5 inches
                  Weight: 30.0 lbs
                
                  Height: 14.5 inches
                  Weight: 30.0 lbs

Written by a Golden Labrador Retriever lover Jean Brewer

Published: 05/18/2018, edited: 02/24/2021

Westphalian Dachsbracke Owner Experiences

Gunner

6 Months

4 People

House & Yard

Health

Grooming

Friendliness

Energy

Trainability

Pastimes

Walks and letting him run on our 5 acers

Playful dogs with good tempered. Like to eat. Have to keep his exercise on high so he doesn't get to heavy.

4 years, 9 months ago

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