Overview
The name means short-legged hound. It is a compact version of the Swiss Laufhund, with the same fine nose but a smaller, lower body.
There are Bernese, Jura, Lucerne and Schwyz varieties, all one breed, distinguished by coat colour and texture.
History
Around 1900 hunting in Switzerland was limited to small districts, and the fast hounds then in use were too quick for such areas. Breeders therefore used selected medium-sized Swiss Laufhunde to create smaller, shorter-legged hounds.
The Schweizer Niederlaufhund Club was founded on 1 July 1905.
Appearance
A hound with a noble head, friendly alert expression, long drop ears and a long tail, standing 35 to 43 cm for males and 33 to 40 cm for females. The body is slightly longer than tall, with strong legs.
The Bernese is tricolour, the Jura black and tan, the Lucerne blue-mottled white, and the Schwyz white with orange-red patches. Coats are smooth, though the Bernese also has a wire-haired type.
Temperament
Passionate, fast and agile hunters with an excellent nose and a pleasant voice. They are friendly, brave and never aggressive, and some are calmer than others.
Care and exercise
They need regular exercise and scent-based activity. The coat is easy to care for with weekly brushing, and wire-haired dogs need a little more attention.
