Overview
The Kromfohrländer came about by accident in post-war Germany, from a cross between a wire-haired terrier type and a griffon, and was then bred deliberately as a companion. It comes in a rough coat with a beard and a smooth coat without one, both in white with tan or brown patches. Numbers are tiny in the UK.
The useful thing about the breed from a walker's point of view is that the terrier ancestry shows in liveliness rather than in hunting. Most Kromfohrländers are not particularly interested in chasing, and they would always rather be near a person than off doing their own thing.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour a day across two walks keeps most of them happy. They enjoy a game and will happily trot alongside a runner, but they are not dogs that need to be worn out. A steady walk with a few retrieves and some sniffing time is a good day.
Puppies and young dogs can be bouncy and should not be over-walked while growing. Older dogs tend to stay fit and keen well into their teens.
On the walk
- Recall: Usually good, because the dog's main interest is you. Build it on the first walk with a few easy calls and rewards before relying on it in the open.
- Strangers: Reserved rather than friendly with people it does not know. Let the dog decide whether to approach, and do not be surprised if it stays behind your legs.
- Other dogs: Mostly relaxed, with the occasional terrier-style opinion about pushy dogs. Group walks with calm company tend to go well.
- Coat: The rough coat picks up seeds and burrs; the smooth coat gets cold in winter. Neither needs much on the walk itself beyond a quick check at the end.
Tips for professional walkers
- Spend a few minutes at the start of each walk letting the dog settle with you before heading out. Trust is the currency here.
- Bring a small toy. Many Kromfohrländers love a tug or a short retrieve and it strengthens the bond quickly.
- Keep an eye on the lead when strangers approach, as the dog may back away suddenly.
What to ask the owner
- How does the dog respond to new people, and is there a way it prefers to be greeted?
- Any known issues in the line, such as epilepsy or joint problems, that should change the walk?
- Which coat type is the dog, and does it need anything specific after wet walks?