Overview
The Westphalian Dachsbracke is a low, long scenthound from north-west Germany, developed from larger German hounds to push game through thick cover slowly. It is tricolour, with a sturdy body, drop ears and a head like a Beagle set on short legs. The Swedish Drever descends from it.
Expect a good-humoured, persistent hound that is easier to hold than a full-sized one but every bit as devoted to scent.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour a day, split in two, suits most adults. The pace is a steady trot rather than a run, and the dog enjoys a long sniffing walk.
Short legs and a long back mean stairs and jumping down from heights should be kept to a minimum.
Daily minimum60 minutes
Ideal2 walks a day
Off-lead timeOn a long line
On the walk
- Nose: The dog follows ground scent with total focus. A long line lets it work without you losing it in a bramble patch.
- Recall: Patchy, as with most scenthounds. It will come when nothing interesting is about and ignore you when something is.
- Lead: Pulls steadily rather than hard. A harness that does not press on the long spine is better than a collar.
- Other dogs: Relaxed with most. Bred to hunt with a handler rather than a pack, so it is not as desperate for company as a foxhound.
Tips for professional walkers
- Walk at the dog's pace; a short-legged hound covering rough ground is working hard.
- Lift the dog in and out of the car rather than letting it jump, if the owner agrees.
- Check the long ears and the belly for ticks after low cover.
Every dog is an individual. Treat this as a starting point and go with what the owner tells you about their dog. Anything to do with health belongs with the owner and their vet.
What to ask the owner
- Any back trouble or vet advice about jumping and stairs for this long-backed breed?
- How does the dog react to rabbits and deer, and how far has it ever ranged?
- Does the owner use a long line already, and what length suits the dog?