Overview
The Jagdterrier is a small, black-and-tan working terrier from Germany, built for hunting fox, badger and other quarry both above and below ground. It also drives wild boar out of cover and follows blood trails of wounded game.
It is bright, adaptable and loyal to its owner, but it is above all a hunter with strong prey drive and plenty of intensity, so it is best suited to people who will work it or keep it very busy.
History
The breed was created in Germany after the First World War by a small group of hunters and dog enthusiasts, including Walter Zangenbert, Carl Erich Gruenewald, and others. They wanted a dark, hard-working hunting terrier, and started with black-and-tan terriers supplied by Lutz Heck, the Berlin zoo director.
The first dogs proved not very good at hunting, so the breeders crossed them with proven working fox terriers and selected strictly for working ability. In roughly ten years the type bred true. The German Hunting Terrier Club was founded in 1926, and the breed later reached the United States, where it remains a niche working dog.
Appearance
A compact, sturdy terrier slightly longer than tall, with a wedge-shaped head, small dark eyes and V-shaped drop ears. It stands 33 to 40 cm at the shoulder, with males weighing roughly 9 to 10 kg and females 7.5 to 8.5 kg.
The coat is black and tan, black and grizzle or dark brown with tan markings. The tail is often docked in countries where this is allowed.
Temperament
Jagdterriers are courageous, intelligent and highly driven. They bond closely with their owners but need firm, consistent training and early socialisation because of their intensity and strong prey drive.
They are not couch potatoes: they need a job to do and can be difficult with small pets and unfamiliar dogs. With the right handling they are loyal and versatile companions.
Care and exercise
This breed needs a lot of daily exercise and mental stimulation, ideally hunting-related work or dog sports. Secure fencing and a leash outdoors are essential, since a scent or small animal can override recall.
The coat is easy to look after with a weekly brush, but all coat types shed. Keep nails trimmed and check ears and skin after outings in thick cover.
Health
Generally robust and long-lived. Eye conditions such as primary lens luxation can occur, so eye screening of breeding stock is advised. Working dogs also need checks for cuts and injuries.
