All about Alpenländische Dachsbracke - Character & Care

The Alpenländische Dachsbracke (Alpine Dachsbracke) is a compact, short-legged Austrian scenthound bred for hunting in Alpine terrain. Friendly, energetic and loyal, it forms a close bond with its family while retaining a strong working instinct.

• Breed: Alpenländische Dachsbracke
• Size: Small to medium
• Temperament: Friendly, energetic, curious
• Coat: Short, smooth, reddish-brown, sometimes with black markings
• Origin: Austria
• FCI breed group: Group 6, Section 2 [1]
• Life expectancy: 12–14 years

History of the breed

The Alpenländische Dachsbracke has an interesting history dating back to ancient times. The breed was developed in Austria specifically for tracking wounded game in the dense vegetation and rugged terrain of the Alpine region. Its physical build, particularly its short legs, allowed it to work close to the ground and follow scent trails where larger hounds could not follow. The breed grew popular with Austrian royalty and nobility, and historical records show it accompanied hunting expeditions to Egypt and Turkey. It was officially recognised and given its current name in 1932 [1]. Today, the Alpine Dachsbracke is kept by hunters and dog lovers worldwide for its tracking ability and loyal nature.

Alpenländische Dachsbracke: character and temperament

The Alpine Dachsbracke is friendly, intelligent and energetic. It is a passionate hunter with a strong nose and the stamina to work extended tracking sessions. It bonds closely with its owner and family, is loyal and playful, and gets on well with children. The breed's hunting instinct is always present. In a domestic setting, this means the dog needs a secure outdoor space and daily exercise. Without enough activity, it becomes restless. Proper socialisation from puppyhood helps ensure the dog is well-adjusted around other animals.

Physical characteristics of the Alpine Dachsbracke

The Alpenländische Dachsbracke is a sturdy, well-built dog with the distinctive long body and short legs of a classic scenthound [1].

Height and weight

Males have a maximum height of 42 cm at the withers; females reach up to 37 cm. Weight averages 15 to 18 kg.

Head and body

The head is broad with dark eyes and long, pendulous ears. The body is long and muscular, with short legs built for close-range ground tracking. The tail is long and carried low.

Coat and colour

The coat is short and dense. The primary colour is reddish-brown; some individuals have black patches or brindle markings. A white patch on the chest is permissible under the breed standard.

Height	Weight	Coat	Colour
Males: max. 42 cm Females: max. 37 cm	Avg. 15–18 kg	Short, dense	Reddish-brown, sometimes with black patches or brindle

Coat care and hygiene

The Alpine Dachsbracke's short coat is easy to maintain. Brushing: Weekly brushing removes loose hair and keeps the coat clean and shiny. During shedding periods, increase to several times a week. Bathing: Bathe only when the dog is visibly dirty. Use a mild dog shampoo and rinse thoroughly. Overbathing strips the coat's natural oils. Ear care: The breed's long drooping ears create a warm, moist environment that can encourage bacterial growth. Check weekly for redness, odour or discharge. Clean gently with a mild ear cleaner. Nail care: Trim every four to six weeks. Overgrown nails cause discomfort and affect gait.

Grooming task	Frequency
Brushing	Weekly (more during shedding)
Bathing	When needed
Ear cleaning	Weekly check
Nail trimming	Every 4–6 weeks

Socialisation: behaviour with other dogs

The Alpine Dachsbracke is a sociable breed accustomed to working in packs, which generally makes it tolerant of other dogs. That said, proper socialisation from puppyhood is still essential, particularly around smaller animals such as rabbits or cats where the hunting instinct may be triggered. Start socialisation early: introduce the dog to different breeds, sizes and ages in controlled, positive settings. Always supervise interactions with unfamiliar animals until trust is established.

Training

The Alpine Dachsbracke is intelligent and responds well to training when positive reinforcement is used consistently. The key points:

• Start obedience training and socialisation early.
• Use rewards and praise. This breed responds well to consistency and positive feedback.
• Provide sufficient physical activity alongside training. An under-exercised Alpine Dachsbracke will struggle to focus.
• Keep sessions short and varied to maintain engagement.

Living conditions

The Alpine Dachsbracke is adaptable and can live in both a house and a flat, provided it receives sufficient daily exercise and mental stimulation. A fenced garden is ideal: it allows the dog to run, explore and decompress safely. The strong hunting instinct means the garden must be securely enclosed, and off-lead exercise in open areas carries risk. In a flat, daily walks and interactive play are essential. This breed is not content with low activity levels.

Health: common ailments and diseases

The Alpine Dachsbracke is generally healthy, but as with most breeds, there are documented conditions to watch for [3]:

1. Hip dysplasia: abnormal hip joint development causing pain and restricted mobility.
2. Eye conditions: including cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy and entropion.
3. Weight gain: hound breeds with a good appetite can easily become overweight. A controlled diet and daily exercise prevent this.
4. Cardiovascular conditions: regular check-ups help detect conditions such as mitral valve disease early.
5. Ear infections: the pendulous ears create conditions that favour bacterial growth. Weekly ear checks prevent problems from escalating.

Condition	Prevention
Hip dysplasia	Health-tested parents, regular vet check-ups
Eye conditions	Regular eye examinations
Weight gain	Balanced diet, daily exercise
Cardiovascular conditions	Regular veterinary monitoring
Ear infections	Weekly ear cleaning and checks

Life expectancy

The Alpine Dachsbracke has a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years [2]. Balanced nutrition, daily exercise, healthy body weight and regular veterinary care are the key factors.

Price and budget

Puppies from reputable breeders typically cost between €1,000 and €1,500. Budget for ongoing costs: quality food, regular veterinary visits, vaccinations, parasite control and equipment.

Cost	Estimate
Purchase price	€1,000–€1,500
Annual food	€300–€500
Veterinary (annual)	€200–€500
Grooming	€100–€200
Accessories	€100–€200

Diet and nutritional requirements

As an active breed with a good appetite, the Alpine Dachsbracke needs a balanced, measured diet:

• Choose food with a named meat source as the primary ingredient.
• Adjust portions carefully. This breed tends to eat enthusiastically and can gain weight if overfed.
• Split daily intake across two meals.
• Always provide fresh water.
• Consult a veterinarian for a personalised plan, particularly if the dog is very active or has health issues.

Physical activity and exercise

The Alpine Dachsbracke needs daily exercise that satisfies both its physical energy and its instinct to track and explore:

• Daily walks of at least 45 to 60 minutes. Vary routes to provide new scent experiences.
• Play sessions in a securely fenced area.
• Nose work and scent games suit this breed's natural abilities and provide mental stimulation.
• Obedience training and interactive toys prevent boredom and destructive behaviour.

Name ideas for your Alpine Dachsbracke

Names inspired by the breed's Austrian heritage and outdoor character:

• Max
• Luna
• Bruno
• Stella
• Otto
• Bella
• Heidi
• Felix
• Roxy
• Lola

Choose a name that is short, easy to call in the field and clearly distinct from training commands.

FAQ

What is the Alpine Dachsbracke's temperament?

Friendly, energetic and curious with a strong hunting instinct. Loyal to its family, good with children when socialised early, and generally tolerant of other dogs. The tracking drive is always present and needs an outlet.

How much care does an Alpine Dachsbracke's coat need?

Very little beyond weekly brushing, occasional bathing when needed, and regular ear checks. The short coat is low-maintenance, but the pendulous ears are the main grooming priority.

What is the life expectancy of an Alpine Dachsbracke?

12 to 14 years on average [2].

Is the Alpine Dachsbracke suitable for families with children?

Yes, with proper socialisation. They get on well with children. Supervise interactions with smaller animals given the breed's hunting instinct.

What health issues are common in Alpine Dachsbracken?

Hip dysplasia, eye conditions, weight gain and ear infections. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet are the key preventive measures.