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Alpine Dachsbracke
Other Names | Alpenlandischer Dachsbracke, Alpenländische Dachsbracke, Basset des Alpes |
Country of Origin | Austria |
Weight | 33 - 40 pounds (15 - 18 kg) |
Height (at withers) | 13 - 16.5 inches (34 - 42 cm) |
Coat | Dense, short, smooth |
Colour | Preferred colors in competition are dark deer red with or without black hairs lightly interspersed. Black with red-brown markings on the head, chest, legs, feet, and tail are also permitted, as well as a white star on the chest (according to the American Rare Breed Association). |
Litter Size | 8 |
Life Span | About 12 years |
Origin & History | Already in ancient times, a hunting/shooting dog was used which bore a remarkable resemblance in appearance to the Alpine Dachsbracke. Crown Prince Rudolf of Habsburg in 1881 and 1885 made his gamekeepers from Murzsteg and Ischl include Alpine Dachsbracken on his hunting trips to Turkey and to Egypt. In 1932 the Alpine- Erzgebirgs - Dachsbracke was recognized by the top canine organizations in Austria as the third scenthound breed. In 1975 the name was altered to Alpenlaendische Dachsbracke and the FCI declared Austria as the country of origin. In 1991 the Alpenlaendische Dachsbracke was included in Section 2 of Scenthounds in the FCI nomenclature. |
Personality | Intelligent and friendly with a fearless personality. A robust, weather resistant working dog used by the mountain huntsman, the Alpine Dachsbracke is used as a tracking hound for wounded deer and as scenthound for hare and fox. Be sure to remain the dog's firm, confident, consistent pack leader to avoid unwanted behavior issues. |
Care Requirements
Health | Due to the rarity of the Alpine Dachsbracke in the United States there have been no reported occurrences of congenital health defects. This does not mean that there are none, only that none have been reported to the major canine health registries in the English-speaking world. However, like the Dachshund, its unique skeletal structure which includes a rather long body and spinal column with a short ribcage, they may be at risk for back injuries. The most common injury to affect elongated breeds is Intervertebral Disk Disease; a condition in which the intervertebral disks sitting between the vertebrae of the spine become damaged, which can lead to extreme pain or paralysis. The risk of developing this condition is known to be increased by obesity, jumping, rough handling, or intense exercise, all of which place greater strain on the vertebrae of the spine. As with any purchase of a purebred dog it is important that the animal be acquired from a reputable kennel that is willing to provide health documents, certifications and pictures of past litters. |
Grooming | The short coat of the Alpine Dachsbracke makes this breed an easy of dog to groom. Their smooth, thick coat requires minimal brushing to reduce shedding and remove dead hair; bathing should only be done once or twice a month or when dirty so as not to strip the coat of its essential oils. |
Feeding | They need a balanced. high-quality diet to stay healthy. |
Exercise | Alpine Dachsbrackes were bred to hunt and have great vitality and stamina. They need plenty of exercise, which includes long daily walks. They will be in their glory if they are taken on hunting trips. |
Other Considerations | Good for apartment living. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. |