Alpine Dachsbracke
Description
The Alpine Dachsbracke is a compact scent hound from Austria, bred specifically to track wounded deer across rugged, mountainous terrain. Their sturdy, muscular build and short double coat make them well-suited for steep, rocky environments where endurance and sure-footedness are essential. These dogs typically weigh between 33 and 40 pounds, carrying a dense, weather-resistant coat that’s mostly dark deer red or black with distinctive red-brown markings on the head, chest, legs, feet, and underside of the tail. They’re known for a friendly but determined nature, showing strong tracking instincts and a focused drive on scent trails. While they get along well with children and other dogs when socialized early, their strong prey drive means they’re not ideal around small pets. This breed thrives with consistent training and daily mental and physical stimulation, making them a great fit for active families who can provide a secure yard for exploration.
Grooming
The Alpine Dachsbracke sports a short double coat that sheds heavily during spring and fall. Regular brushing twice a week keeps loose hairs in check, but during shedding seasons, daily brushing with an undercoat rake is necessary to manage the dense undercoat. Bathing every 6 to 8 weeks helps maintain coat health, but make sure to dry thoroughly to prevent any skin issues. Avoid shaving the coat, as it protects the dog from harsh weather and terrain. Their coat colors—dark deer red or black with red-brown and white markings—don’t require special stain care, but pay attention to the white star on the chest to keep it clean. Key grooming points: - Brush 2× weekly; daily during heavy shedding - Use an undercoat rake on dense areas - Bathe every 6–8 weeks; dry completely - Never shave the double coat - Check ears and trim nails regularly Pro tip: Schedule a professional de-shed treatment every 6 to 8 weeks to keep the undercoat manageable and reduce loose hair around your home.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
The Alpine Dachsbracke needs about 65 minutes of walking daily, ideally in a single session to satisfy its tracking instincts and moderate activity needs. This breed loves to use its nose, so incorporating scent games or trail walks will keep them mentally engaged as well as physically exercised. A consistent walking routine helps curb stubbornness and channel their energy productively. Example routine: - Morning: 10-minute leash walk to warm up - Afternoon: 55-minute hike or trail walk with scent work This schedule balances physical exercise with mental stimulation, which is crucial for this scent-driven breed. Avoid overly repetitive routes to keep their interest high and prevent boredom.
Boarding
When boarding an Alpine Dachsbracke, provide a crate sized between 36 and 42 inches to ensure enough room for comfort without excess space that could cause anxiety. These dogs enjoy active play sessions, so plan for at least two play blocks daily, incorporating scent or brain games to engage their tracking instincts. Avoid small-animal toys, as their strong prey drive can lead to frustration or destructive behavior. Secure fencing is essential to prevent escapes during outdoor time. Staff should note the breed’s moderate barking and occasional stubborn streak, so patience and consistent handling are key. Offering enrichment that taps into their natural scenting abilities will help reduce stress and keep them happily occupied while away from home.