These dogs are also efficient in tracing scents, even if the traces are old. That's why, in 1991, La Federation Cynologique Internationale included them in the 6th group (hounds) and the second section (scent hounds).This type of hound is well-known for tracking wounded animals, especially foxes, deer, wild boars, and hares.
Rudolf of Habsburg was the first important hunter to include Alpine Dachsbracke dogs in his hunting crews, and his hunting trips to Turkey acted as opportunities to verify the dogs' abilities to hunt.
With its robust, strong bones and body structure and its short legs, this breed slightly resembles the Dachshund, or the German hound, mostly because the Alpine Dachsbracke was obtained by controlled inbreeding between the Dashchund and some large dogs. It is very appreciated in the mountain hunting areas because of its stature, appearing to be “stuck” to the ground almost all of the time.
The Alpine Dachsbracke is covered with short thick fur colored in black, brown, or red. The male reaches 34-42 cm in height and the female a little less at 36-38 cm, and they weigh almost 15-18 kg. Its life expectancy reaches 12 years old.
In spite of its short legs, this breed has no problems climbing to high places or going down on slopes. Originally a hunting dog, it works fine in big teams, also being a nice and watchful companion for human beings.
For your children, these can be the perfect watch dogs and also the perfect pets, but they are more likely to be seen tracing a scent near a hunter than playing with children in a family's yard.
Apart from its keen sense of smell, this hound also has a strong voice. They are hard-working dogs and they feel the need to be busy all the time doing anything. Owners should offer them the opportunity to exercise, take long distance walks, or the possibility of using their energy during the day, if they live in an apartment or a small house.
This dog's mind should be occupied at all times with something entertaining in order to prevent the destruction of your home. Because of its joyful temperament, like that of a young puppy, the dog is a good friend to other family pets, but you should take care of the neighbors' pets, which can accidentally come onto your propriety. The Dachsbracke is quite possessive. The owners should be very happy, as they have a dog without many needs and only a few minor health problems. A daily brush over its short hair can assure you that the dog won't lose hair during the day. There is no need to worry about special diseases and illnesses with this dog, because its ability to live in harsh conditions and hostile environments has made it quite resistant.
With its round brown eyes and its straight short legs, the Alpine Dachsbracke is, and will forever be, the perfect mountain hunting dog.
