Alpine Dachsbracke
Breed Description

The Alpine Dachsbracke is known by several names that reflect its Austrian heritage and hunting purpose. In its native Austria, the breed is formally called the Alpenländische Dachsbracke, a German name that translates directly to Alpine Dachsbracke in English. Historically, this breed has also been referred to as the Alpine-Erzgebirgs-Dachsbracke, though this longer designation was officially shortened in 1975 when the Fédération Cynologique Internationale recognized Austria as the breed's country of origin.

The name itself provides insight into the breed's purpose and characteristics. Alpine references the mountain regions of Austria where these dogs were developed to work in harsh, high-altitude terrain. Dachsbracke combines two German words: Dachs, meaning badger, and bracke, which refers to a type of tracking or scenthound. This nomenclature connects the breed to the broader family of German and Austrian bracke hounds used for hunting various game.

International recognition of the Alpine Dachsbracke has been selective and deliberate. The breed was first recognized by Austrian canine organizations in 1932 as the third scenthound breed in the country. The FCI officially accepted the Alpine Dachsbracke in 1991, placing it in Group 6 Scenthounds Section 2 Leash Hounds, alongside the Bavarian Mountain Scenthound and the Hanoverian Scenthound. This classification acknowledges the breed's specialized role as a tracking dog that works while connected to a handler by leash.

In English-speaking countries, recognition has been more limited. The United Kennel Club in the United States recognizes the Alpine Dachsbracke in their Scenthound Group, adopting the FCI breed standard. However, the American Kennel Club does not currently recognize this rare breed, primarily due to the extremely small population of Alpine Dachsbrackes in America. The breed remains most common in its native Austria and neighboring European countries, where hunters continue to value its tracking abilities and hardiness in mountainous environments.

The Alpine Dachsbracke operates under breed standards maintained by several international and national kennel organizations, with the FCI standard serving as the primary reference for most countries. The breed standard emphasizes the Alpine Dachsbracke's working ability, physical soundness, and suitability for tracking game in challenging alpine terrain. These standards ensure that breeders maintain the essential characteristics that make this breed effective as a mountain hunting dog.

The FCI standard, which most countries follow, provides detailed specifications for the breed's appearance, structure, and temperament. Males should stand between 37 and 42 centimeters at the withers, while females range from 34 to 40 centimeters. The breed should present a sturdy, robust appearance with strong bone structure and firm musculature. The standard specifies that the dog's length should be approximately one and a half times its height at the withers, creating the characteristic elongated body shape.

Coat color and quality receive particular attention in the breed standard. The ideal coloration is dark deer red, with or without black hairs interspersed throughout. Black coats with clearly defined red-brown markings on the head, chest, legs, feet, and underside of the tail are also acceptable. A small white star on the chest is permissible. The coat must be dense with a thick topcoat and substantial undercoat to provide protection in harsh weather conditions.

Temperament standards emphasize the Alpine Dachsbracke's intelligence, friendliness, and fearless nature. The breed should display confidence without aggression and demonstrate a strong hunting instinct combined with tractability. These dogs must be capable of independent work while remaining responsive to their handlers. The standard calls for a dog that is alert, determined, and possesses exceptional scenting ability, capable of following cold trails over difficult terrain.

Breeding programs in Austria maintain strict oversight to preserve the Alpine Dachsbracke's working abilities and health. Breeders typically require dogs to pass hunting performance tests before being approved for breeding, ensuring that working characteristics remain central to the breed. This emphasis on function over pure appearance distinguishes the Alpine Dachsbracke from many modern breeds and helps maintain the hardy, capable dogs that Crown Prince Rudolf of Habsburg valued during his hunting expeditions in the 1880s.

• American Kennel Club (AKC): "Not recognized"
• United Kennel Club (UKC): "Recognized in Scenthound Group"
• Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI): "Recognized in Group 6, Section 2 (Leash Hounds)"
• The Kennel Club (UK): "Not recognized"
• Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): "Not recognized"

The Alpine Dachsbracke presents a distinctive appearance that reflects its specialized breeding for mountain tracking work. This medium-sized scenthound combines the elongated body and short legs reminiscent of the Dachshund with the robust structure and tracking capabilities of larger Austrian hounds. The overall impression should be one of strength, sturdiness, and purposeful construction suited for navigating challenging alpine terrain.

The head features a slightly arched skull with a well-defined furrow running between the eyes, creating an intelligent and alert expression. The muzzle is strong and constitutes approximately nine-tenths of the total head length, ending in a broad black nose with wide nostrils optimized for scenting work. The eyes are relatively small, dark brown in color, and set somewhat to the sides, providing good peripheral vision while tracking. The ears are set high, hang down smoothly with rounded ends, and nearly reach the end of the muzzle when pulled forward.

The body structure emphasizes durability and endurance. The neck is muscular without being overly long, flowing into well-developed, sloping shoulders. The chest is deep, reaching approximately half the height at the withers, and sufficiently wide to provide good lung capacity for sustained work. The back is straight with a slightly tucked abdomen, and the elongated body creates a length-to-height ratio that allows the dog to navigate through dense underbrush and uneven terrain effectively.

The legs appear short in relation to the body but are actually straight, strong, and well-muscled. This leg structure, inherited from Dachshund ancestors, enables the Alpine Dachsbracke to maintain stability on steep mountain slopes and work close to the ground where scents are strongest. The feet are strong and round with tightly closed toes, strong pads, and black nails, providing excellent grip on rocky surfaces. The tail is set high, thick at the base, carried slightly downward, and features longer hair on the underside creating a brush-like appearance that barely reaches the ground.

The Alpine Dachsbracke emerged as a distinct breed in the mid-nineteenth century, though dogs bearing remarkable resemblance to the breed have existed in Alpine regions since ancient times. The development of this scenthound occurred in Austria, where hunters required a dog capable of tracking wounded game through the harsh, mountainous terrain of the Alps. The breed's creation involved carefully crossing larger Austrian hounds with Standard Dachshunds to produce a tracking dog with exceptional scenting ability, mountain endurance, and a build suited for navigating difficult landscapes.

The primary foundation breeds for the Alpine Dachsbracke were the Austrian Black and Tan Hound and the Dachshund. From the Austrian Black and Tan Hound, an ancient breed believed to descend from Celtic Hounds, the Alpine Dachsbracke inherited its remarkable scenting capabilities and the physical durability necessary to function at high altitudes in severe weather. This ancient hound belongs to a group of Grand Brackes that includes the Tyrolean Hound and the Styrian Coarse-Haired Hound, all specifically developed over centuries for hunting in Austria's mountainous regions.

The Dachshund contribution brought several crucial characteristics to the new breed. The short stature allowed these dogs to work closer to the ground where scent concentrations are stronger, while also enabling them to move through dense underbrush more effectively than their taller cousins. The Dachshund genes also contributed courage, determination, and an exceptionally high prey drive. Importantly, the Alpine Dachsbracke was intentionally bred to be slightly larger than the Westphalian Dachsbracke, a smaller German cousin, because the larger size proved essential for survival in the extreme conditions of high-altitude Alpine environments.

The breed's reputation grew rapidly among Austrian hunters and nobility. Crown Prince Rudolf of Habsburg, the archduke of Austria and heir to the throne, became particularly enamored with these dogs. Historical records document that in 1881 and 1885, the Crown Prince specifically instructed his gamekeepers from Murzsteg and Ischl to bring Alpine Dachsbrackes on his hunting expeditions to Egypt and Turkey. This royal endorsement significantly elevated the breed's status and helped establish its reputation beyond Austria's borders.

Recognition of the breed by official organizations occurred gradually but steadily. In 1932, widespread use and proven success led to the Alpine Dachsbracke being recognized as the third scenthound breed by Austria's top canine organizations. At this time, the breed was known as the Alpine-Erzgebirgs-Dachsbracke. In 1975, the name was simplified to Alpenländische Dachsbracke when the Fédération Cynologique Internationale officially recognized the breed and declared Austria as its country of origin.

The most significant international recognition came in 1991 when the FCI placed the Alpine Dachsbracke in Group 6 Scenthounds, Section 2 Leash Hounds, alongside other specialized tracking dogs like the Bavarian Mountain Scenthound and the Hanoverian Scenthound. This classification acknowledged the breed's primary role as a tracking hound that works on a leash with its handler, following wounded game or cold trails over extended distances.

Throughout the twentieth and into the twenty-first century, the Alpine Dachsbracke has remained relatively rare outside its native Austria and neighboring regions of Germany and Italy. The breed continues to be prized primarily by hunters who value its ability to track wounded deer, boar, hare, and fox across challenging mountain terrain. Unlike many hunting breeds that have transitioned primarily to companion roles, Alpine Dachsbrackes maintain strong working lines and are still regularly employed for their original purpose. The emphasis on working ability over appearance in breeding programs has helped preserve the breed's health, temperament, and functional characteristics that made it valuable to Austrian hunters more than a century ago.

The Alpine Dachsbracke displays a temperament that balances the determination of a working hound with the friendliness of a family companion. These dogs are characterized by their calm, confident demeanor and fearless approach to both work and life. Unlike some hunting breeds that can be nervous or high-strung, the Alpine Dachsbracke remains remarkably level-headed and composed, traits that serve them well in challenging mountain environments and make them suitable for family life.

Intelligence ranks among the breed's most notable characteristics. Alpine Dachsbrackes demonstrate keen problem-solving abilities and quick learning when motivated by their natural instincts. However, their intelligence manifests differently than in obedience-focused breeds. These dogs think independently, a necessary trait for tracking hounds that must make decisions while following trails far from their handlers. This independent thinking can appear as stubbornness during training, particularly when a dog's hunting instincts compete with human commands.

With their families, Alpine Dachsbrackes display warm affection and loyalty without being overly demanding of attention. They enjoy spending time with their people and form strong bonds, but they also appreciate having a purpose and job to occupy their minds. These dogs thrive in households that can provide both companionship and opportunities to engage their working abilities. They adapt well to family routines and integrate smoothly into household life when properly exercised and mentally stimulated.

The breed's reputation for being excellent with children is well-deserved. Alpine Dachsbrackes typically show remarkable patience with youngsters and tolerate the noise and activity levels of family life without becoming anxious or reactive. Their fearless yet friendly nature creates a stable temperament that makes them reliable around children. However, as with any medium-sized dog, supervision during interactions with very small children is advisable, and children should be taught to respect the dog's space and needs.

Sociability with other dogs is generally good, thanks to the breed's pack-oriented hunting background. Alpine Dachsbrackes often enjoy the company of other canines and work well in multi-dog households. Their history of working alongside other hounds during hunts has bred into them a tolerance for canine companions. Early socialization helps ensure that this natural sociability develops properly, though most Alpine Dachsbrackes demonstrate friendliness toward other dogs without extensive training.

The most challenging aspect of the Alpine Dachsbracke's personality is their exceptionally strong prey drive. These dogs were bred specifically to track and pursue game, and this instinct remains powerful even in dogs kept solely as companions. Small animals, including cats, rabbits, and other household pets, may trigger the chase response. While Alpine Dachsbrackes raised from puppyhood with small animals can learn to coexist peacefully, their natural inclination is to pursue anything that runs. Secure fencing and leashed walks are absolute necessities, as these dogs can become completely focused on a scent trail and deaf to recall commands.

Alpine Dachsbrackes can adapt successfully to various living situations when their fundamental needs are met. While these dogs were bred for mountain hunting work, they do not require vast acreage to be content. However, they absolutely need sufficient daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. A home with a securely fenced yard provides the ideal environment, allowing these active dogs space to explore and patrol their territory safely.

Apartment living is possible for Alpine Dachsbrackes, but it presents challenges that require committed owners. These moderately active dogs can settle indoors when properly exercised, but they cannot be expected to remain content with minimal activity. Apartment-dwelling Alpine Dachsbrackes need substantial daily walks, preferably extended hikes or runs that allow them to engage their tracking instincts. Without adequate physical and mental outlets, these intelligent dogs will find their own entertainment, often in forms owners find undesirable such as chewing furniture or excessive vocalization.

The breed integrates well into family life when introduced properly and given clear expectations. Alpine Dachsbrackes appreciate having routines and understanding their place within the household structure. They respond best to consistent, patient leadership rather than heavy-handed discipline. These dogs want to please their families but also possess independent thinking that requires owners to be strategic about training and management. Families who understand and respect the breed's working heritage typically find them to be delightful companions.

Exercise requirements for the Alpine Dachsbracke are substantial but not extreme. These dogs need approximately one to one and a half hours of activity daily, with longer outings on weekends if possible. Simple walks around the neighborhood may not provide sufficient stimulation for these tracking hounds. Ideal exercise includes hiking in varied terrain, particularly areas where the dog can engage its nose and follow scent trails. Activities that combine physical exercise with mental engagement, such as scent work games or tracking exercises, provide the most satisfaction for this breed.

Secure containment is absolutely critical when keeping an Alpine Dachsbracke. These dogs possess powerful hunting instincts and will pursue interesting scents regardless of boundaries or recall commands. Fencing must be secure and sufficiently tall, as determined Alpine Dachsbrackes may attempt to climb or dig under barriers when motivated by prey drive. Underground electronic fencing is inadequate for this breed, as the desire to chase will override the discomfort of the correction. Physical barriers and supervision remain the only reliable containment methods.

Alone time tolerance varies among individual Alpine Dachsbrackes, but most handle moderate periods of solitude reasonably well when properly exercised beforehand. These are not dogs prone to severe separation anxiety when raised with appropriate independence training. However, they should not be left alone for extended periods regularly, as this can lead to boredom-related behavioral problems. An adult Alpine Dachsbracke can typically manage four to six hours alone without issue, provided they receive adequate exercise and attention during their family's home hours.

The breed's moderate vocalization can be managed in family settings with proper training and exercise. Alpine Dachsbrackes bark with purpose rather than constantly, typically alerting to visitors or expressing excitement when on a scent. Their vocal nature rarely becomes problematic in homes where they receive sufficient activity and mental stimulation. Teaching appropriate quiet commands and rewarding calm behavior helps maintain peaceful household dynamics. Climate adaptability favors cooler temperatures, reflecting the breed's Alpine origins.

Training an Alpine Dachsbracke requires understanding the breed's working heritage and independent nature. These intelligent dogs learn quickly when motivated, but their scenthound background means they prioritize scent trails and hunting instincts over obedience commands. Successful training approaches emphasize positive reinforcement, patience, and recognition that these dogs think for themselves rather than automatically deferring to human direction in all situations.

Early socialization forms the foundation of a well-adjusted Alpine Dachsbracke. Puppies benefit from exposure to various people, animals, environments, sounds, and situations during their critical developmental period. This early exposure helps prevent fearfulness and promotes the breed's naturally friendly temperament. Puppy kindergarten classes provide excellent socialization opportunities while also introducing basic training concepts in a controlled environment with professional guidance.

Basic obedience training should begin early and continue throughout the dog's life. Alpine Dachsbrackes can master fundamental commands like sit, down, stay, and come with consistent practice and positive reinforcement methods. However, owners must accept that recall reliability will always be compromised by the breed's strong prey drive. While these dogs can learn to come when called in low-distraction environments, the command may be ignored when the dog is actively tracking a scent. This limitation necessitates management through physical containment rather than relying solely on trained behaviors.

Short, engaging training sessions work best for this breed. Alpine Dachsbrackes possess sufficient attention spans for learning but can become disinterested if training becomes repetitive or overly long. Sessions of ten to fifteen minutes, conducted multiple times daily, yield better results than extended training periods. Incorporating variety and making training feel like a game rather than work helps maintain the dog's interest and enthusiasm.

Positive reinforcement training methods prove most effective with Alpine Dachsbrackes. These dogs respond well to food rewards, praise, and play as motivators for desired behaviors. Harsh corrections or punishment-based training typically backfire with this breed, creating a dog that becomes cautious, stubborn, or disengaged from training. Building a strong bond based on trust and mutual respect produces better long-term results than attempting to dominate or force compliance.

Exercise needs for the Alpine Dachsbracke are substantial and non-negotiable. These working dogs require significant daily physical activity to maintain physical health and mental well-being. A minimum of one hour of exercise daily is necessary, with more being beneficial. Simple leash walks around the neighborhood provide some value but don't fully satisfy this breed's need for varied terrain and scenting opportunities. Ideal exercise includes hiking in natural settings where the dog can engage its nose and explore different surfaces and elevations.

Activities that engage both body and mind provide the most satisfaction for Alpine Dachsbrackes. Tracking games, where the dog follows scent trails to find hidden treats or toys, tap directly into the breed's natural abilities and instincts. Scent work classes or nose work training offer structured outlets for these skills. Even simple games like hiding treats around the yard for the dog to find engage the Alpine Dachsbracke's strongest talents while providing mental stimulation alongside physical activity.

Endurance activities suit this breed well due to their mountain hunting heritage. Alpine Dachsbrackes can accompany owners on extended hikes, though their short legs mean they may tire more quickly on very long or difficult trails compared to longer-legged breeds. Building fitness gradually allows these sturdy dogs to develop impressive stamina for outdoor adventures. Consistent exercise schedules help Alpine Dachsbrackes maintain appropriate behavior patterns and mental contentment.

The Alpine Dachsbracke is generally considered a healthy, robust breed with fewer genetic health issues than many purebred dogs. This relative hardiness stems from the breed's emphasis on working ability over appearance in breeding programs and the smaller gene pool maintaining strong selection pressures for functional dogs. Regular veterinary care and responsible breeding practices help ensure these dogs enjoy long, active lives.

The typical lifespan for an Alpine Dachsbracke ranges from ten to twelve years, which is reasonable for a medium-sized breed. Some individuals live beyond this range with excellent care, proper nutrition, and good genetics. The breed's working heritage has contributed to overall soundness, as dogs unable to perform their mountain tracking duties were not historically selected for breeding.

Despite their general health, Alpine Dachsbrackes can be affected by certain conditions that prospective owners should understand. Hip dysplasia, a developmental orthopedic condition where the hip joint forms improperly, can occur in this breed as in many medium to large dogs. This condition causes pain, lameness, and eventually arthritis if left unmanaged. Responsible breeders screen breeding stock for hip dysplasia to reduce its occurrence in future generations.

The breed's elongated body structure creates vulnerability to back problems and intervertebral disc disease, similar to their Dachshund relatives though typically less severe due to their slightly longer legs and more moderate proportions. Maintaining appropriate body weight and avoiding activities that stress the spine, such as jumping from heights or navigating steep stairs repeatedly, helps protect back health. Early screening for signs of IVDD allows for prompt intervention.

Spino cerebellar ataxia, a neurological disorder characterized by uncoordinated movement and impaired balance, has been identified in some Alpine Dachsbracke lines. This hereditary condition affects the nervous system and can significantly impact quality of life. Genetic testing is available for carriers of this condition, allowing breeders to make informed breeding decisions and reduce its occurrence.

Musculoskeletal issues beyond hip dysplasia can affect the breed. Their working lifestyle and body structure place demands on joints and bones throughout their lives. Arthritis may develop in senior dogs, particularly those who worked actively during their younger years. Weight management and appropriate exercise throughout life help maintain joint health and mobility into the senior years.

Preventive care forms the foundation of maintaining Alpine Dachsbracke health throughout their lives. Regular veterinary examinations, ideally annually for adults and bi-annually for seniors, allow early detection of emerging health concerns before they become serious. These wellness visits should include thorough physical examinations and discussions about any changes in behavior or physical function that owners have observed.

Vaccinations protect Alpine Dachsbrackes from serious infectious diseases that can be life-threatening. Following veterinarian-recommended vaccination protocols based on the dog's lifestyle and regional disease risks ensures appropriate protection without over-vaccinating. Core vaccines typically include protection against distemper, parvovirus, and rabies, while additional vaccines may be appropriate based on geographic location and activities.

Dental care significantly impacts overall health and longevity in Alpine Dachsbrackes as in all dogs. Periodontal disease affects the majority of dogs by middle age and can lead to systemic health problems affecting the heart, kidneys, and liver when bacteria from infected gums enter the bloodstream. Regular professional dental cleanings by veterinarians, combined with consistent home dental care, help maintain oral health throughout the dog's life.

Weight management represents one of the most important controllable factors in maintaining Alpine Dachsbracke health and longevity. Obesity places stress on joints, increases the risk of back problems given the breed's elongated structure, and contributes to numerous health conditions including diabetes, heart disease, and shortened lifespan. Monitoring food intake carefully and ensuring adequate exercise helps maintain ideal body condition. Parasite prevention including heartworm medication and flea-tick control protects against disease-carrying parasites.

Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care are essential for maintaining your Alpine Dachsbracke's health and longevity.

The Alpine Dachsbracke's grooming requirements are relatively modest compared to many breeds, though consistent maintenance remains important for coat health and overall cleanliness. The breed's dense double coat, consisting of a thick topcoat and substantial undercoat, provides weather protection but does require regular attention to prevent matting and manage shedding. Most owners find the grooming commitment manageable with a basic weekly routine.

Brushing constitutes the primary grooming task for Alpine Dachsbrackes. Weekly brushing with a firm bristle brush or slicker brush removes loose hair, distributes natural skin oils, and prevents minor tangles from developing into problematic mats. The short, close-fitting coat makes brushing a relatively quick process, typically requiring only ten to fifteen minutes per session. During these sessions, owners should pay particular attention to areas where matting is more likely, such as behind the ears and in the armpits.

Seasonal shedding periods demand increased grooming attention. Alpine Dachsbrackes blow their undercoat twice annually, typically in spring and fall, releasing substantial amounts of loose hair during these transitions. During shedding seasons, daily brushing helps manage the hair volume and prevents it from accumulating throughout the home. Tools like undercoat rakes or de-shedding tools can be particularly effective during these periods for removing dead undercoat efficiently.

Bathing needs are minimal for this breed. Alpine Dachsbrackes typically require bathing only when they become genuinely dirty or develop an odor, which might occur monthly or even less frequently depending on the dog's activities and environment. Over-bathing can strip natural oils from the coat and skin, potentially causing dryness or irritation. When bathing is necessary, using a mild dog-specific shampoo helps maintain coat quality. The coat should be thoroughly dried after bathing, as the dense undercoat can hold moisture.

Ear care is particularly important for Alpine Dachsbrackes due to their hanging ears. The ear flaps create a warm, moist environment that can promote yeast or bacterial growth if not properly maintained. Weekly ear checks should become routine, looking for signs of redness, odor, or excessive discharge. Cleaning ears with a veterinarian-recommended solution when they appear dirty helps prevent infections. Dogs who swim or get wet frequently may need more regular ear attention.

Nail trimming should occur every three to four weeks or as needed to keep nails at an appropriate length. Overgrown nails can cause discomfort and affect the dog's gait. Most Alpine Dachsbrackes tolerate nail trimming well when introduced to the process gradually during puppyhood. Using either nail clippers or a grinding tool works effectively, with the choice often depending on owner preference and the dog's tolerance.

Dental hygiene contributes significantly to overall health and should not be neglected. Daily tooth brushing with dog-specific toothpaste represents the gold standard for dental care, though many owners find three to four times weekly brushing more realistic. Regular dental attention helps prevent periodontal disease, tooth loss, and the systemic health problems that can result from poor oral health. Professional dental cleanings by a veterinarian may be necessary periodically, depending on the individual dog's dental health.

If you're looking to adopt a Alpine Dachsbracke, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Alpine Dachsbrackes waiting for their forever homes.