The
Bavarian Mountain Hound is a breed of dog from
Germany. It is a scent hound and has been used in Germany since
the Middle Ages to trail wounded game. It is a cross between
the Bavarian Hound, and the Hanover Hound.
Appearance
The Bavarian Mountain Hound's head is strong and elongated.
The skull is relatively broad and slightly domed. It has a pronounced
stop and a slightly curved nosebridge. The muzzle should be
broad with solid jaws, and its lips fully covering mouth. Its
nose is black or dark red with wide nostrils. Its ears are high
set and medium in length. They are broader at the base and rounded
at the tips, hanging heavily against the head. Its body is slightly
longer than it is tall and slightly raised at the rump. The
neck medium in length, strong, with a slight dewlap. Topline
sloping slightly upward from withers to hindquarters. Chest
well-developed, long, moderately wide and well let-down with
a slight tuck-up. It has a long, fairly straight croup and solid
back. While its tail is set on high, medium in length and hanging
to the hock, carried level to the ground or hanging down.
Size
Bavarian Mountain Hounds weigh between 20 to 25 kg, males are
47 to 52 cm (18.5 - 20.5 in) high, while females are 44 to 48
cm (17-19 in).
Coat and color
The coat is short, thick and shiny, lying very flat against
the body and moderately harsh. It is finer on the head and ears,
harsher and longer on the abdomen, legs and tail. Its coat can
come in all shades of black-masked fawn or brindle.
Temperament
Bavarian Mountain Hounds are calm, quiet, poised and very attached
to their masters and family. When hunting, they are hard, single-minded
and persistent. Courageous, spirited, fast and agile, they are
at ease on a rugged terrain, with a superb nose and powerful
hunting instinct. They need a patient, experienced trainer.
Care
The Bavarian Mountain is not suited for city life. It is in
regular need of space and exercise and also requires regular
brushing. They are not dogs for the casual hunter. Most are
owned and used by foresters and game wardens.