Find out everything about the wonderful dog breed, the Alpine Dachsbracke! Originally from Austria, this breed is known for its unique character and grooming requirements. Here you’ll learn all about their personality traits, how best to care for them, and why they’re such a beloved breed.
The Alpine Dachsbracke is a friendly and intelligent dog with a strong hunting instinct. They form a close bond with their family and get on well with children and other dogs. It is important to socialise them well from a young age to prevent aggression towards other animals.
When it comes to care, the Alpine Dachsbracke requires regular brushing and checks of the ears and nails. They have a short coat and are generally clean dogs that require little care.
If you’d like to know more about this fascinating dog breed, keep reading! We’ll cover its history, physical characteristics, health, training and much more. Read on and be inspired by the Alpine Dachsbracke!
- Breed: Alpine Dachsbracke
- Size: Small
- Temperament: Friendly, energetic, curious
- Coat: Short, smooth, red with brown or black
- Origin: Austria
- FCI breed group: Hounds
- Life expectancy: 12–14 years
History of the breed
The Alpenländische Dachsbracke has an interesting history dating back to ancient times. The breed was originally bred in Austria and was primarily intended for hunting wild boar, hares and foxes. The Alpenländische Dachsbracke was ideally suited to hunting in rugged terrain and dense vegetation thanks to its physical characteristics.
The popularity of the Alpine Dachsbracke grew rapidly and the dog soon became a favourite amongst royalty. The breed was even taken on hunting expeditions to Turkey and Egypt. In 1932, the Alpine Dachsbracke was officially recognised by kennel clubs and given its current name. Today, the Alpine Dachsbracke is loved by hunters and dog lovers all over the world for its hunting instinct and friendly nature.
Alpenländische Dachsbracke character & temperament
The Alpine Dachsbracke is known for its friendly and intelligent nature. They are passionate hunters and possess a strong hunting instinct. They are loyal to their owner and form a close bond with their family. They are also playful and energetic, so sufficient physical activity is essential for this breed. They get on well with children and other dogs, but must be socialised to prevent aggression towards other animals. Overall, the Alpine Dachsbracke is a loving companion with a strong hunting instinct.
The physical characteristics of the Alpine Dachsbracke
The Alpine Dachsbracke is a medium-sized breed with a sturdy and robust build. They have a long body and short legs, similar to a dachshund. Males have a maximum height of 42 cm, whilst females have a maximum height of 37 cm. The average weight varies between 15 and 18 kg.
The Alpine Dachsbracke has a broad head with dark eyes and drooping ears. Their coat is short and dense, and is usually reddish-brown in colour. Some individuals have black markings or tiger stripes. A white patch on the chest is acceptable.
These physical characteristics enable the Alpine Dachsbracke to hunt effectively in rugged terrain and dense vegetation. They have a long tail that hangs down.
Height and weight
Males have a maximum height of 42 cm, whilst females have a maximum height of 37 cm. Their weight varies on average between 15 and 18 kg.
Head and body
The Alpine Dachsbracke has a broad head with dark eyes and drooping ears. They have a long body and short legs, similar to a dachshund.
Coat and colour
Their coat is short and dense, reddish-brown in colour, sometimes with black patches or tiger stripes. A white patch on the chest is acceptable.
| Height |
Weight |
Head |
Body |
Coat |
Colour |
| Males: max. 42 cm
Females: max. 37 cm |
Avg. 15–18 kg |
Broad head, dark eyes, drooping ears |
Long body, short legs |
Short and dense |
Reddish-brown, sometimes with black patches or tiger stripes |
Coat care and hygiene
Grooming the Alpenländische Dachsbracke is relatively straightforward. Due to their short coat, regular brushing is sufficient to remove loose hairs and dirt. A good brushing also helps to keep the coat shiny and healthy.
Bathing is generally not often necessary for the Alpine Dachsbracke, unless the dog is very dirty. Bathing too often can strip the natural oils from the coat, so it is important to be careful with this. If you do want to wash the dog, use a mild dog shampoo and make sure you rinse the coat thoroughly.
In addition to brushing and bathing, it is important to regularly check and clean the Alpine Dachsbracke’s ears. This breed has drooping ears, which can provide an ideal environment for bacterial growth. Use a soft cloth or a special ear cleaner to clean the ears and prevent infections.
Nail care is also an important part of the Alpine Dachsbracke’s hygiene routine. Overgrown nails can cause discomfort and even pain when walking. Trim the nails regularly using special dog nail clippers to prevent overgrowth.
| Grooming requirements |
Advice |
| Brushing |
Brush regularly to remove loose hair and dirt. |
| Bathing |
Only when the dog is very dirty. Use a mild dog shampoo and rinse the coat thoroughly. |
| Ear care |
Check and clean regularly to prevent infections. |
| Nail care |
Trim regularly to prevent overgrowth and discomfort. |
Socialisation: Behaviour with other dogs
The Alpine Dachsbracke is a sociable breed that generally gets on well with other dogs. This is because they are used to hunting in packs, which often means they are tolerant of other dogs. However, it is important that the Alpine Dachsbracke is well socialised from a young age to prevent any aggression towards other animals. Although they generally get on well with children, it is important to always supervise them when they come into contact with other pets, especially smaller animals such as rabbits or cats.
Training
The Alpine Dachsbracke is an intelligent dog that is easy to train. They are energetic and have a strong hunting instinct, so it is important to start obedience training and socialisation early. Positive reinforcement and rewards are effective training methods for this breed. They respond well to consistent training and react positively to praise and rewards. It is also important to provide sufficient physical activity and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviour.
Living conditions
The Alpine Dachsbracke is a versatile breed that can adapt to both houses and flats, provided they receive sufficient physical activity and mental stimulation. These active dogs need daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Having a fenced garden is ideal for the Alpine Dachsbracke, so they can run around safely and burn off their energy. They enjoy the outdoors and being able to run and play freely. It is important to ensure the garden is securely fenced so the dog cannot escape.
If you live in a flat, you must ensure your dog gets enough exercise. Regular walks, playing in the park and interactive games are great ways for them to burn off their energy. It is important to devote sufficient time and attention to your Alpine Dachsbracke every day to keep them happy and content.
Alpine Dachsbracken can live happily indoors, provided they receive sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. They need challenges and activity to keep themselves occupied. Provide plenty of toys, puzzles and interaction with their owners to stimulate their curiosity and intelligence.
Health: common ailments and diseases
The Alpine Dachsbracke is generally a healthy breed with few known hereditary health problems. However, they are prone to some common ailments and diseases that also affect other dog breeds. Below are some of the main health issues the Alpine Dachsbracke may face:
-
Hip dysplasia: This is a condition in which the hip joints do not develop normally, which can lead to pain and stiffness. Regular veterinary check-ups and X-rays where necessary can help with the early detection of hip dysplasia.
-
Eye problems: Like other dog breeds, Alpine Dachsbracken can suffer from eye problems such as cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy and entropion. It is important to have their eye health checked regularly by a veterinarian.
-
Weight issues: Obesity can be a major health problem in dogs, including the Alpine Dachsbracke. An unbalanced diet and insufficient exercise can lead to weight gain. Ensure a healthy diet and sufficient exercise to prevent obesity.
-
Cardiovascular conditions: Some Alpine Dachsbracken may be prone to certain heart conditions, such as mitral valve disease and heart failure. Regular check-ups with the veterinarian and a healthy lifestyle can help prevent or manage these conditions.
It is important to monitor your Alpine Dachsbracke’s health regularly and discuss any concerns with a veterinarian. Always choose a reputable breeder who takes the health of their breeding dogs seriously. A healthy diet, sufficient exercise and regular veterinary check-ups contribute to a happy and healthy Alpine Dachsbracke.
| Health problem |
Symptoms |
Prevention |
| Hip dysplasia |
Joint pain, lameness, restricted exercise |
Regular veterinary check-ups, X-rays, good nutrition and exercise |
| Eye problems |
Cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, entropion |
Regular eye examinations at the veterinarian, good hygiene |
| Weight problems |
Overweight, reduced mobility |
Balanced diet, sufficient exercise |
| Cardiovascular conditions |
Heart murmur, fatigue, shortness of breath |
Regular veterinary check-ups, healthy lifestyle |
Watch out for any symptoms of these health issues and consult a veterinarian immediately if you notice anything worrying. By keeping a close eye on your Alpine Dachsbracke’s health and providing the right care, you can ensure your dog enjoys a long and healthy life.
Life expectancy
The average life expectancy of an Alpine Dachsbracke is approximately 12 to 14 years. With good nutrition, regular exercise and regular veterinary check-ups, they can lead a long and healthy life. It is important to monitor their weight and general health to detect any health issues at an early stage.
Price and budget
The price of an Alpine Dachsbracke can vary depending on various factors such as the breeder’s reputation, the quality of the parents and the availability of the breed. Generally, the price of an Alpine Dachsbracke can range from €1,000 to €1,500.
In addition to the purchase price, there are other costs to consider, such as nutrition, veterinary bills, coat care and accessories. It is important to plan a budget and fully understand the costs of owning a dog before purchasing an Alpine Dachsbracke.
| Costs |
Amount (average) |
| Purchase price |
€1,000 - €1,500 |
| Annual food costs |
€300 - €500 |
| Medical costs (veterinarian) |
€200 - €500 |
| Coat care |
€100 - €200 |
| Accessories (lead, basket, toys) |
€100 - €200 |
Diet and nutritional requirements
A balanced diet is essential for the health and well-being of the Alpine Dachsbracke. It is important to provide high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs. The right nutrition depends on various factors such as age, weight, health and activity level.
To ensure your Alpine Dachsbracke gets all the nutrients it needs, it is advisable to choose nutrition specially formulated for dogs of this breed. This nutrition contains the correct balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Refer to the feeding instructions on the packaging and adjust the amount of food according to your dog’s needs.
It is also essential to provide plenty of water. Ensure that fresh water is always available in a place your dog can easily access. In addition to a healthy diet, it is important not to feed your Alpine Dachsbracke any food that could be harmful to dogs, such as chocolate, onions and grapes. These foods can cause toxicity and lead to serious health problems.
If you have any doubts about your Alpine Dachsbracke’s diet, consult a veterinarian. A veterinarian can advise you on the correct diet and any specific nutritional needs your dog may have.
| Nutritional requirements |
Recommendations |
| Protein |
A dog of this breed requires high-quality protein from sources such as meat, fish and poultry. |
| Fats |
Feed your Alpenländische Dachsbracke healthy fats, such as fish oil and plant-based oils, to promote a shiny coat and healthy skin. |
| Carbohydrates |
Provide complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains and vegetables, for a slow and steady release of energy. |
| Vitamins and minerals |
Ensure your dog’s diet contains all essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin D, calcium and phosphorus. |
Physical activity and exercise
The Alpenländische Dachsbracke is an active dog that requires plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation. They have a strong hunting instinct and need sufficient exercise to stay happy and healthy. Daily walks, play and interactive games are essential to help them burn off energy and provide mental stimulation.
Training is also important to promote obedience and prevent undesirable behaviour. They respond well to positive reinforcement and rewards. It is important to train regularly and be consistent with training to achieve good results.
Name ideas for your Alpine Dachsbracke
Choosing the perfect name for your Alpine Dachsbracke can be a fun and creative experience. You can draw inspiration from their appearance, personality, hunting instinct or even Austrian traditions. Some examples of possible names are:
- Max
- Luna
- Bruno
- Stella
- Otto
- Bella
- Heidi
- Felix
- Roxy
- Lola
The most important thing is that the name suits your dog’s personality and character.
Famous Alpine Dachsbracke breeds
Although the Alpine Dachsbracke may not be as well known as some other dog breeds, there are still a few famous examples that have stood out in various fields. One of these famous Alpine Dachsbrackes is ‘Bodo’, a hunting dog who gained fame in the hunting world due to his exceptional skills and achievements. Bodo has demonstrated what the Alpine Dachsbracke is capable of, thereby attracting the attention of hunting enthusiasts all over the world.
As well as Bodo, there are other famous Alpine Dachsbrackes to be found in the world of show dogs and as pets of celebrities. Each of these beautiful and talented dogs embodies the characteristics and temperament of the breed. They add to the Alpine Dachsbracke’s reputation and help to promote this special breed.
Whether you’re interested in hunting, dog shows, or simply looking for a wonderful and energetic companion, the Alpine Dachsbracke has something to offer. It is a breed with many talents and great potential. It is therefore no surprise that there are several famous Alpine Dachsbrackes that have stolen the hearts of many and attracted attention in various fields.
FAQ
What is the temperament of the Alpine Dachsbracke?
The Alpine Dachsbracke is known for its friendly, energetic and curious nature.
How much care does an Alpine Dachsbracke need?
The Alpine Dachsbracke requires regular brushing and checking of ears and nails due to its short coat.
What is the life expectancy of an Alpine Dachsbracke?
The average life expectancy of an Alpine Dachsbracke is approximately 12–14 years.
Are Alpine Dachsbrackes suitable for families with children?
Yes, they get on well with children and other dogs, but it is important to socialise them properly from a young age.
What health problems are common in Alpine Dachsbrackes?
Some common health issues include hip dysplasia, eye problems, weight issues and cardiovascular conditions.
