The dog’s ability to track using its nose is fascinating. Many dogs are capable of this, wherein experts call them scenthounds. In contrast to sighthounds, scenthounds mostly rely on their keen sense of smell to track something or someone. This feature is beneficial in search and rescue missions; it helps gives officers the location of a specific object. Among many scenthounds in existence, the Deutscher Wachtelhund is one of the breeds dominating the field.
Breeders often regard the Deutscher Wachtelhund as an outstanding hunter. Although it is a versatile breed, its superior sense of smell makes it excel in the hunting field; it effortlessly hunt small animals, as well as humans. With this said, we can say that this breed shows a clear definition of a true scenthound.
Origins of the Deutscher Wachtelhund
We can trace back the origins of the Deutscher Wachtelhund to the late 19th century in Germany. It originated from the interest of German hunters to recreate a breed known for its versatility and incredibly work on the field. The breed, known as the Stober, existed in Germany as far as the early 18th century. Thankfully, some specimen survived, and the breeders bred it with spaniels to reproduce the breed, giving it the usual liking for hunting.
Their hard work paid off; they succeeded in recreating the breed, which they called the Wachtelhund. The breed gains recognition in the early 20th century, followed by the founding of breeders clubs dedicated to the breed’s development. They isolated the Wachtelhund from the public and bred them solely for hunting, improving its skills further.
The greatness of the Wachtelhunds reached the United States in the mid-20th century. However, its travel to the United States didn’t make the breed more popular; its reproduction hits a lower rate, which only produced seventeen dogs in total. On the other hand, Canada gave a warmer welcome to the Wachtelhund and employed it in various jobs. For years, the breed worked as retrievers and hunters; it utilizes its keen sense of smell to track.
Moreover, Dave Pepe brought a pair of Wachtelhund to the United States in hopes of reproducing the breed. His work resulted in thirty-eight pups, which started the breed’s more stable population in the United States. This event was significant to the Wachtelhund, wherein it gained recognition in the country and helped boost its numbers.
Characteristics of the Deutscher Wachtelhund
Height: 18 – 21 inches
Weight: 40 – 55 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 – 14 years
Hypoallergenic: No
The Deutscher Wachtelhund, also known as the German Spaniel, is a medium-sized breed that could stand up to twenty-one inches tall and weighs up to fifty-five pounds. Its size is perfect in the field; it is built for speed and power. Long hair covers its body, leaving the head with its smooth and short coat. Despite the elegant coat covering its body, power is evident in this breed since it has an incredibly muscular body.
The strong and athletic physique of the Wachtelhund makes it suitable for hunting. Hunters admire its keen sense of smell, as well as its effortless movement in the water. It enjoys swimming against the tides to fulfill its mission of hunting waterfowls. This dog showcases its superior sense of smell to track and hunt mammals of various sizes on land. Besides its exceptional talent on the field, breeders also commend this dog for its other characteristics.
Aside from elegant looks and pure athleticism, the Wachtelhund has a soft heart. It is affectionate towards its family but also fearless against threats and intruders; this attentiveness makes it suitable as a watchdog. The diversity of its skillset shows how versatile of a breed is the Wachtelhund. Interestingly, whatever activity it is working on expresses a remarkable devotion by getting the job done.
Moreover, the Wachtelhund’s soft and kind nature makes it an excellent dog for the family. Not all dogs are suitable for every household, but this breed would surely get along with every member of the family. A family that often engages in indoor and outdoor activities are the immediate prospects for owning a Wachtelhund. Furthermore, this breed does not only make an outstanding worker; it is well-equipped and possesses qualities that make it a great family pet.