Also known as the Deutscher Jagdterrier, the Jagdterrier is courageous, enduring, vital, full of temperament, reliable, sociable and trainable. He always takes pleasure in his work. The Jagdterrier is a versatile hunting dog from Germany. In German, literally means “hunt terrier.” He is particularly suited to hunting under the ground and as a flushing dog and is relatively small, compact, and well-proportioned. His dense coat, either hard and rough or course and smooth, is usually black and tan, but can be dark brown or grayish-black as well. The tan markings are on his eyebrows, muzzle, chest, legs, and at the base of his tail. He could also have small white markings on his chest and toes.
History
After World War I, a small group of active hunters separated from the much larger Fox-Terrier Club. This group aimed to create a breed solely based on hunting performance. The experienced hunters and cynologists Rudolf Frie, Walter Zangenberg, and Carl-Erich GruÌnewald selected a black and tan hunting dog that was particularly suited to hunting underground. A coincidence arose in support of their efforts: a zoo director, Lutz Heck presented Walter Zangenberg with four black and tan terriers, which were said to come from purebred Fox-Terrier lines. These dogs became the foundation stock of the Jagdterrier.
At this time, Dr. Herbert Lackner joined the founders. After many years of intensive breeding efforts and through skillful crossings with the Old English Wirehaired Terrier as well as with the Welsh Terrier, they succeeded in fixing the appearance of their breed. At the same time, they put great emphasis on breeding a multi-talented, easily-trainable, hard, tongue-giving, and water-happy dog with an explicit hunting instinct. The German Hunting Terrier Club (Deutscher Jagdterrier-Club e.V.) was founded in 1926. As ever, the breeders continued to value their breed most carefully for its usefulness as a hunting dog, its steadiness of character, its courage, and drive.
Quick Facts
Temperament: intelligent / courageous / hardworking
Height: 13-16 inches
Weight: 17-22 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Foundation Stock Service
Health
The majority of Jagdterriers are healthy dogs. Working with aesponsible breeder, those wishing to own a Jagdterrier can gain the education they need to know about specific health concerns within the breed. Good breeders utilize genetic testing of their breeding stock to reduce the likelihood of disease in their puppies.
Grooming
Beyond regular weekly grooming, the occasional bath will keep your Jagdterrier clean and looking his best. Grooming can be a wonderful bonding experience for you and your dog. The strong, fast-growing nails should be trimmed regularly with a nail clipper or grinder to avoid overgrowth, splitting and cracking. Ears should be checked regularly to avoid a buildup of wax and debris, which can result in infection. Teeth should be brushed regularly.
Exercise
Options for exercise could include play time in the backyard, preferably fenced, or being taken for walks several times a day. Exercise can also come in the form of indoor activities, like hide-and-seek, chasing a ball rolled along the floor, or learning new tricks. Certain outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, or retrieving balls or flying discs can provide a good outlet for expending energy. If you live in an apartment, even short walks in the hallways can give your dog some exercise, especially during inclement weather. Training for dog sports like agility, obedience, and rally can also be a great way to give your dog exercise.
Training
Will benefit from an early training program that utilizes positive reinforcement training. Contact us for more details.
Nutrition
The Jagdterrier should do well on a high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian’s supervision and approval. Any diet should be appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.
