History
The German Wachtelhound, also known as the Deutscher Wachtelhund, is a versatile hunting dog that originated in Germany. The breed was developed in the 19th century by breeder Friedrich Jungklaus, who wanted to breed a dog that could retrieve as well as follow tracks. Below are some important historical facts about the breed:
- The breed was first recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1928.
- During World War II, breeding of the German Wachtelhound almost ended, but a few breeders have managed to preserve the breed.
- Today, the breed is still used for hunting and is also popular as a family dog.
Character
The German Wachtelhound is known for its intelligence, dedication and work ethic. Below are some important characteristics of the breed:
- The dog is very obedient and learns new commands quickly.
- The breed is very energetic and needs a lot of exercise to stay healthy and happy.
- The German Watchdog is generally friendly with other dogs and people, but can be a little reserved with strangers at times.
Health
As with all dog breeds, it is important to keep a close eye on the health of the German Guard Dog. Below are some major health issues that the breed can be prone to:
- Hip dysplasia is a common problem in the German Wachtelhound. It is important to have the dog's hips tested before breeding.
- Ear infections are also quite common with the breed because of their droopy ears. It is important to clean the dog's ears regularly to prevent infections.
- As with many other gun dog breeds, allergies and skin problems can occur in the German Watchdog.
Care
Grooming a German Wachtelhound is generally quite easy, but there are some important things to keep in mind. Below you will find some care tips:
- The dog needs regular exercise, such as long walks or playing in the garden.
- It is important to brush the dog's coat regularly to prevent tangles and keep the dog looking well-groomed.
- It is important to clean the dog's ears regularly to prevent ear infections.
- It is also important to brush the dog's teeth regularly to prevent dental problems.