German Hunting Terrier

Genetic Predispositions and Health

German Hunting Terriers can suffer from centronuclear myopathy, exercise-induced metabolic myopathy, footpad hyperkeratosis, hyperuricosuria, and primary lens luxation. Genetic testing is recommended, including for the following additional conditions: hyperuricosoria, degenerative myelopathy, and progressive rod-cone degeneration.

Personality and Behavior

German Hunting Terriers are fearless, energetic, and intelligent dogs. They're known for their tenacity and are never shy or nervous. They're loyal to their owners and protective of their family, but they can be reserved with strangers. Training them requires consistency, as they can be stubborn. Their high energy and intelligence mean they require plenty of mental and physical stimulation. They are not recommended for inexperienced dog owners.

Terrier Lineage

A canine genetic lineage is a group of individuals or entire breeds that descended from common ancestors predating modern breed formation. Often these lineages are associated with a ‘type’ of dog with a unique historical working role and associated behaviors (e.g., herding, scent hunting, etc.).

Terriers were bred to hunt pests like rats, foxes, and badgers. Terriers are tenacious and fearless with high energy levels, strong prey drive, and feisty temperaments which all help in their hunting abilities. Terriers were used as mighty hunters in both urban and rural settings. Terriers have natural hunting instincts and protective tendencies.

Example breeds with ancestry from this lineage include Jack Russell Terrier, Scottish Terrier, and Yorkshire Terrier.

Fun Facts

Jagdterrier in German means 'hunt terrier'.

Despite their small size, German Hunting Terriers have been known to take on much larger game. They were bred to be fearless and won't back down, even in the face of a wild boar.

The German Hunting Terrier is sometimes referred to as the "little black and tan" due to its typical black and tan coat color, although they can also be found in other colors like black and gray, and even a rare dark brown.

They have a robust waterproof double coat that helps protect them in various weather conditions and in the water. These dogs are excellent swimmers and can be used for water hunting.

References

Doi:10.1002/9781119540687 https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/jagdterrier/ https://www.ukcdogs.com/jagdterrier
https://www.fci.be/Nomenclature/Standards/103g03-en.pdf