Hanoverian Scenthound
Description
The Hanoverian Scenthound is a sturdy, medium-large dog weighing between 79 and 99 pounds. It has a short, smooth coat that comes mainly in brindle or red, often marked with a distinctive black mask. This breed was crafted in 19th-century Germany by crossing local hunting dogs with Bloodhounds and other scent hounds, honing its skill for tracking wounded game. Its nose is its greatest asset, making it a natural for search and rescue work. Calm and friendly, the Hanoverian Scenthound bonds deeply with family members and usually gets along well with kids and other pets. Still, its hunting drive runs strong. It may chase smaller animals if not trained early. This breed matures slowly, holding onto its playful puppy traits for years, which can be a joy or a challenge depending on your lifestyle.
Grooming
The Hanoverian Scenthound’s short, smooth coat is easy to maintain but does shed lightly to moderately. Weekly brushing with a rubber curry or bristle brush keeps loose hairs and dirt at bay. Bathe your dog every 4 to 8 weeks to avoid drying out the skin. Nail trims should happen every 2 to 4 weeks, and check ears monthly to prevent buildup or irritation. - Brush weekly with rubber curry or bristle brush - Bathe every 4–8 weeks, no more - Trim nails every 2–4 weeks - Clean ears monthly - Pro tidy as needed Pro tip: The black mask can show dirt more easily, so wipe the face gently after outdoor time to keep it looking sharp. This breed doesn’t blow coat seasonally, so grooming stays steady year-round.
Learn the Smooth routine:
→ Complete Smooth Grooming Guide
Walking
Plan for one solid walk each day, lasting about 60 minutes. This breed enjoys a steady pace that lets it sniff and explore without rushing. Hanoverian Scenthounds need mental stimulation as much as physical exercise, so include some tracking games or scent work during your walk to keep their minds busy. Example routine: - Morning: 60-minute walk with scent games and steady pacing A single, focused session suits their moderate activity level best. Avoid multiple short walks that might leave them restless or under-stimulated.
Boarding
When boarding a Hanoverian Scenthound, provide a crate at least 48 inches long to accommodate their size comfortably. They thrive with daily exercise and calm decompression time to unwind after activity. Avoid small-animal toys since their hunting instincts can trigger chasing or chewing behaviors. Secure fencing is a must to keep them safe and contained. Staff should note this breed’s calm but alert nature. They enjoy gentle play but can bark frequently, especially if they catch a scent or hear noises. Enrichment through scent tracking or puzzle toys helps keep them engaged and reduces stress during their stay.