Hanoverian Scenthound

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Hanoverian Scenthound is a medium size scenthound dog that originated in Germany. Also known as Hanover Hound and Hanovarian Hound, the dog is bred as an specialist in tracking the wounded game. These dogs are descendants of large bloodhounds of the Middle Ages, called Liam hounds. This breed was developed in 17th century to fill the needs of hunters for specialist tracking dogs that could bring the wounded game back to their master. The dogs were later crossed with other scenthounds like Heidebracke to give rise to an improved breed. This breed is among the progenitors of Bavarian Mountain Dogs after it was cross bred with Bavarian Hound.

The Hanoverian Scenthound is a medium size, powerful dog with a well proportioned body. It is well suited to work. This dog has a large head and slightly wrinkled forehead. Slightly rounded skull is broadest between the ears. Deep and strong muzzle is broad and of same length as skull. Broad nose is usually black but brown can also be seen. Eyes are moderately set and come in dark brown colour. Broad, smooth and moderately long ears are set high and hang close to the head. Long and strong neck has rather loose skin. The rectangular body has long topline with strong back and broad, slightly arched loin. Chest is deep and spacious. Strong-based long tail is set on high and tapers to the tip. The skin is thick and rather loose, forming typical wrinkles on the forehead, head and occasionally on neck. Short and thick coat is coarse or harsh to touch. It ranges in colour from light to dark reddish fawn with a brindled appearance. The dog may also have a mask. It stands between 19-21.5 inches and weighs between 80-99 lbs.

This breed is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by FCI and UKC.

Color

This dog comes in light to dark deer-red, more or less intensely brindled, with or without mask. Small white patches on fore-chest are acceptable.

Coat

The short coat is coarse or harsh to touch and thick. It is longer and harsher on back of thighs underside of the tail.

Personality

Bred to be the best tracker, the Hanoverian Scenthound is persistent and single minded when tracking. It has an excellent nose and is used on deer and wild boar. It is an energetic breed that is suitable for rural or suburban living and may not adjust well to an apartment life due to its high activity demands. This dog is loyal and affectionate with a calm and even temperament as a family pet. Self-assured and confident, this dog is sensitive with its master and makes an obedient dog while being choosy and discerning with strangers. A good playmate of children specially when involved in high activity games such as fly ball. Training is important from a young age.

Care

Short-haired coat is low maintenance with only weekly brushing enough to remove dead hair. Bathe when needed.

Training

The trainer must exercise positive training methods to train this sensitive breed. Harsh methods may not work well with this dog. Training should start from early age and continued with patience.

Activity

As most working dogs, the Hanoverian Scenthound has high requirements for physical activities. Not suitable for apartment living, the dog requires a house with a yard for it to play and run. Daily walks are important. It can be a good jogging partner.