Discover everything you need to know about the Alpine Dachsbracke breed, including its origins, size, and temperament, in this comprehensive guide.
Introduction
The Alpine Dachsbracke, also known as the Alpenländische Dachsbracke, is a small but powerful hunting dog with a rich history dating back to the Celtic Bracke. Originating in the Alpine region, particularly in Austria, this breed has a strong lineage and has been recognized for its hunting abilities and strong physique. While it is often kept as a family dog, its true potential is realized when it is utilized as a working dog for hunting purposes. With its intelligence, tenacity, and independent nature, the Alpine Dachsbracke is well-suited for brackish and rummage hunting, as well as water work and retrieving.
History and Recognition
The origins of the Alpine Dachsbracke can be traced back to the Celtic Bracke, also known as the “Segusier,” as mentioned by the Roman historian Arrian. Over time, the breed evolved and developed into the Alpine Dachsbracke that we know today. The first international Dachsbracken Club was established in 1896, and the breed was officially recognized by the Austrian Kennel Club in 1932. Despite a decline in breeding during the world wars, the FCI officially recognized the Dachsbracke in 1975, and it has been acknowledged as a welding dog since 1991.
List:
– Originating in the Alpine region, particularly in Austria
– Descended from the Celtic Bracke, also known as the “Segusier”
– First international Dachsbracken Club established in 1896
– Officially recognized by the Austrian Kennel Club in 1932
– Recognized as a welding dog since 1991
This breed’s rich history and recognition underscore its significance as a skilled hunting dog with a strong lineage and heritage.
Origins of the Alpine Dachsbracke
The Alpine Dachsbracke has its origins in the Alpine region, particularly in Austria. It is believed that the breed descended from the Celtic Bracke, also known as the “Segusier”. The Roman historian Arrian mentioned the Celtic Bracke in his works, indicating the breed’s ancient lineage. Dachsbracken forms resembling the modern Bracke have been documented since the Middle Ages. Over time, they evolved from high-legged Bracken to dwarf Bracken, as seen in the various types of Alpine Dachsbracke found in parts of Graubünden in Switzerland and the Bavarian and Austrian Alps in the 19th century.
The first international Dachsbracken Club was established in 1896, but disbanded in 1908. However, in 1910, the Austrian Club for Dachsbracke was founded, marking a pivotal moment in the breed’s history. The Austrian Kennel Club officially recognized the Alpine Dachsbracke in 1932. Despite a decline in breeding during the world wars, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) officially recognized the Dachsbracke in 1975. It was later designated as a welding dog in 1991. This rich history and recognition by reputable kennel clubs attest to the breed’s significance and heritage.
Size and Physical Characteristics
The Alpine Dachsbracke is a small dog, with a height at the withers of only 37 centimeters and short legs, giving it a compact appearance. Despite its small size, it is characterized by a strong bone structure, providing it with the strength, stamina, and tenacity necessary for its hunting duties.
Body Structure
The physique of the Alpine Dachsbracke is well-proportioned, with a strong bone structure that supports its muscular build. Its compact size allows it to navigate through dense underbrush and rugged terrain with ease, making it well-suited for hunting in the Alpine region.
Coat and Coloration
The coat of the Alpine Dachsbracke is dense, consisting of both hair and undercoat, which provides insulation and protection in harsh weather conditions. The most common coloration is deer-red, with occasional brown fringe on the head and black markings. A white breast star may also be present in some individuals.
List:
– Compact size with a height of 37 centimeters at the withers
– Strong bone structure and muscular build
– Dense coat with deer-red coloration and occasional brown fringe
– White breast star may be present in some individuals
Temperament and Behavior
The Alpine Dachsbracke is known for its friendly and sociable nature. It is generally good with families and children, but it requires consistent and loving training from an early age. This breed is also very independent and headstrong, so it needs a firm hand and clear boundaries. With proper training, the Alpine Dachsbracke can become a well-balanced and obedient companion.
Characteristics:
– Friendly and sociable
– Independent and headstrong
– Requires firm and consistent training
– Good with families and children when well trained
The calmness and strong nerves of the Alpine Dachsbracke are essential for its role as a sighthound. It has the courage, intelligence, and independence to assess situations independently, making it well-suited for hunting and retrieving tasks. However, without proper exercise and mental stimulation, the Dachsbracke may exhibit unwanted behaviors due to its high energy levels and intelligence.
Characteristics:
– Courageous and intelligent
– Independent and able to assess situations
– Requires regular exercise and mental stimulation
– May exhibit unwanted behaviors without proper stimulation
Health and Care
Regular Veterinary Check-ups
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for the health and well-being of the Alpine Dachsbracke. This includes vaccinations, parasite control, and dental care. As a hunting dog, the Dachsbracke is prone to injuries and should be examined by a veterinarian after each hunting session to ensure that any wounds are properly treated.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation
The Alpine Dachsbracke requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Long walks, hikes, and opportunities for scent tracking are important for this breed. Engaging in hunting activities or participating in dog sports can also provide the necessary physical and mental stimulation.
Diet and Nutrition
A well-balanced diet is crucial for the health of the Alpine Dachsbracke. High-quality dog food that meets the dog’s energy requirements should be provided. Additionally, the diet should include a mix of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and essential nutrients. It is important to monitor the dog’s weight and adjust the diet accordingly to prevent obesity and other health issues.
Training and Exercise
Consistent Training
The Alpine Dachsbracke is a highly intelligent and independent dog, which means that consistent and loving training from an early age is essential. This breed can be quite headstrong, so it’s important to establish yourself as the pack leader early on. Positive reinforcement methods work best with this breed, as they respond well to praise and rewards.
Exercise Requirements
The Alpine Dachsbracke is a high-energy hunting dog and requires plenty of exercise to keep both their body and mind stimulated. Daily walks, runs, or hikes are necessary to keep them physically fit and mentally engaged. They also enjoy activities such as retrieving and water work, which can help satisfy their natural hunting instincts. Without sufficient exercise, they may become bored and develop destructive behaviors.
It’s important to note that the Alpine Dachsbracke is not satisfied with simple games and requires activities that mimic hunting to truly fulfill their potential. Therefore, owners should be prepared to dedicate time and effort to providing the necessary exercise and training for this breed.
Conclusion
The Alpine Dachsbracke is a unique and versatile hunting dog that requires specific training and care to thrive. With its strong bone structure and tenacious nature, it is well-suited for brackish and rummage hunting. However, it also has a friendly and calm disposition, making it a suitable companion for families and children. To ensure the well-being of the Alpine Dachsbracke, it is important to provide consistent and loving training from an early age, as well as a high-energy diet tailored to its hunting activities.
Training and Care
– Consistent and loving training from an early age is essential for the Alpine Dachsbracke to become a sociable and balanced dog.
– A high-energy diet with sufficient carbohydrates and fats is necessary to support the dog’s hunting activities.
– Regular grooming, including brushing the coat and trimming the claws, is important for the dog’s overall well-being.
Overall, the Alpine Dachsbracke is a remarkable hunting dog with a rich history and a strong presence in the Alpine region. Its unique combination of strength, intelligence, and sociability makes it a valuable asset for hunters and a beloved companion for families. With proper training, care, and a fulfilling hunting lifestyle, the Alpine Dachsbracke can thrive and fulfill its role as a dedicated working dog.
In conclusion, the Alpine Dachsbracke is a unique and versatile breed with a rich hunting heritage that makes them an excellent companion for active individuals or families. Their medium size and balanced temperament make them well-suited for both hunting and as a loyal family pet.
