What makes the Schweizer Laufhund Unique?
The Schweizer Laufhunds are a group of scenthounds native to Switzerland. Most kennel clubs and canine organizations treat these breeds as a single breed with multiple varieties. There are four currently recognized varieties: the Bernese Hound, Bruno Jura Hound, Lucernese Hound, and the Schwyz Hound. One type, the Thurgovian Hound, is definitely extinct, and another, the Jura Type Saint Hubert Hound, is being either revived or recreated depending on who is believed.
Breed Groups
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Is the Schweizer Laufhund Right For You?
The Schweizer Laufhund has been bred almost exclusively as a scent tracking dog and has a temperament very similar to that of most other scenthounds. This breed is known to be very affectionate, often fawningly so, and these dogs have a tendency to become strongly attached to their families. Most of these dogs are cuddlers and face-lickers. This breed wants to be in the constant company of its family, although it is generally not especially needy. Although only rarely kept as a family dog, the Schweizer Laufhund usually is very gentle and affectionate with children once it has been properly trained and socialized. Many owners in Switzerland claim that this dog does very well in a family environment.
In 5 Words
- Calm
- Docile
- Passionate
- Sociable
- Friendly
Characteristics
Learn About the Schweizer Laufhund
Description
General Description
Medium in size, slightly longer length as slender. The head has been cut to form an acute angle. In particular, strong beak, black with large nostrils. The eye color is dark, with a gentle look. Very long ears that droop in a cone. Or horizontal tail are slightly curved. There is a limb bone, tough. Where they hold the limb is firmly behind the thick and gnarled limbs. Court short, stiff bristly hairs
Size
There are currently four recognized varieties of the Schweizer Laufhund. These varieties are virtually identical in appearance with the notable exception of coat coloration. All four varieties come in a standard and a miniature size although there is a single unified standard for both. Most males stand between 19 and 24 inches tall at the shoulder, and most females stand between 18½ and 23½ inches. Although weight is heavily influenced by height, gender, and condition, most breed members weigh between 30 and 45 pounds.
Coat
The coat of Swiss Hound is short, smooth and dense. It is very fine on head and ears.
Short History of the Schweizer Laufhund
The Swiss Hound has very ancient origins. Its presence in times of the Roman Helvetia is certified on a mosaic, discovered at Avenches, by the representation of packhounds corresponding to the varieties of Swiss hounds. In the 15th century, it was sought after by Italian dog lovers and in the 18th century, by the French, for its exceptional aptitude for hunting hare. Its native lines have certainly been influenced by scenthounds of French breeding brought back to Switzerland by mercenaries. In 1882, a standard was established for each of the five varieties of the Swiss Hound. In 1909, those standards were revised and the total disappearance of the hound of Thurgovie was noted. On 22 January 1933, one single standard was established for the 4 varieties of the Swiss Hound. Interestingly Adolf Hitler owned one of these dogs, giving it the name “The Schweizer Luftwaffe”. The ancient variety, the hound of the Jura type St. Hubert, is very rare nowadays. This ancient variety is still used for hunting in some areas in France and Canada.
Temperament
Calm and even temperament and docile nature makes Swiss Hound a very suitable family companion besides being a tireless and passionate hunter. Sociable, easy going and friendly, this breed would make a suitable pet and playmate of the children. Because Swiss Hounds love children, they would be wonderful playmates of younger children as the breed would be very protective and would tolerate the rough handling that the kids would dish out. This dog tends to attach itself to its master more though it is friendly and kind to all its family. It gets along very well with other dogs and pets in the family. As a keen hunter, this dog will always be ready to accompany its master on a hunting trip. This dog loves to hunt and makes an excellent and very passionate hunting partner. This breed has high exercise needs and would make a great hiking and jogging companion.
Caring for Your Schweizer Laufhund
General Health
It does not appear that any health surveys have been conducted on the Schweizer Laufhund which makes it impossible to make any definitive statements about the breed’s health. Most seem to believe that this breed is in relatively good health, which is similar to the case with many other breeds that are bred almost exclusively bred for work. This breed may be at risk for a number of genetically inherited conditions because its gene pool is fairly small, but this has not been confirmed. Most seem to believe that the life expectancy for this breed is between 10 and 14 years, although it is unclear what that estimate is based on.
Grooming & Bathing
This is an easy to care breed. Brushing the short coat with curry brush once a week will remove dead hair and keep the shine of the coat. Ears should be checked for infection.
Exercise & Training
Exercise should be sufficient. The Swiss Hound is an obedient and amenable dog that would be easy to train with positive and gentle training methods. Harsh training methods will not work with this sensitive breed.
Schweizer Laufhund Picture Gallery
