Pet Wiki

Jagdterrier

Also called Deutscher Jagdterrier, German Hunting Terrier, German Hunt Terrier

A bold, spirited working terrier that loves a job and forms tight bonds with its owner.

SizeSmall
Weight7.5 to 10 kg (17 to 22 lb)males 9 to 10 kg, females 7.5 to 8.5 kg123
Height33 to 40 cm (13 to 16 in)32
Lifespan12 to 14 years1
CoatDense coat, rough-haired or coarse smooth
OriginGermany31
GroupFCI group 3
Last checked2026-09-30
Recognised breedShort profile
courageous and full of stamina
highly trainable working partner
affectionate with its own people
32

Personality what they are like

A bold, spirited working terrier that loves a job and forms tight bonds with its owner. It is sociable and steady when well raised, but its energy and determination suit experienced, active handlers.321

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Jagdterrier. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • Brushingevery week
  • Bathevery 8 weeks
  • Hand strippingHand stripping keeps the harsh texture; clipping also worksevery 12 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
  • Ear checkevery 2 weeks
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
  • ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year

Coat and looks how to spot one

dense coat, rough-haired or coarse smooth

Comes in two coat types: a hard, rough coat or a coarse, smooth one, both thick and close enough to shrug off brambles and bad weather. The body is compact and sturdy for its small size.32

Coloursblack and tandark brown and tangreyish-black and tan32

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Very high. Bred as an all-round hunting dog for work underground and as a flushing dog, it needs vigorous daily exercise plus training or scent tasks to stay content.31

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Low-maintenance coat; a weekly brush, with occasional hand-stripping of rough coats, keeps it in order.32

Home where they are happiest

Best in an active or rural home with secure fencing; a strong prey drive means recall needs work.21

Company who they like around

Loyal and affectionate with owners and hunting companions; thrives on structured activity with its person.21

The story where it all began

German hunters Rudolf Frieß, Walter Zangenberg and Carl-Erich Grünewald set out after World War I to create a terrier bred purely for hunting ability. Starting from black-and-tan terriers supplied by zoo director Lutz Heck, they added Old English Wirehaired and Welsh Terrier blood, and the German Hunting Terrier Club was founded in 1926.31

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Its foundation dogs came from Lutz Heck, director of the Berlin Zoo.1

  2. 2

    Its creators chose working ability over looks, making it one of the most purely hunting-focused terriers.3

  3. 3

    In North America it has been used by hunters for raccoon and squirrel.2

  4. 4

    A Jagdterrier Club of America was formed in St. Louis in 1956.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name 'Jagdterrier' comes from German, where 'Jagd' means 'hunt' or 'hunting,' so the breed name translates to 'Hunting Terrier.'4

Name ideas for your new friend

FritzGretelKaiserBrunhildeWaldemarHeidiRudiLieselBlitzSchnitzelAdlerTrudel

A day in the life told by a Jagdterrier

I wake up at dawn, tail already wagging. My human laughs as I bounce around the kitchen, ready for our morning mission. We head to the woods, where I sniff every tree, dig under roots, and chase a scent that leads me to a rabbit hole. I bark proudly, my human knows I found something. After a good run, we return home, and I curl up on the sofa, one eye open for any squirrel drama outside. Life is simple: sniff, dig, run, and love my human. Best job ever.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard No. 103, Group 3 (Terriers), Section 1 (Large and medium sized Terriers), with working trial; current standard published 19 Mar 20153
UKC
Terrier Group; recognised 1 Jan 19932
AKC
Not recognised1

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Jagdterrier tip

For a lively Jagdterrier, keep treats to about 10% of daily calories and choose high-quality, single-ingredient options like fresh fruits or veggies. Since they can be prone to weight gain, use treats sparingly during training and monitor their waistline.

Source: akc.org

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Jagdterrier, and at what times?

Feed adult Jagdterriers at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Consistent times help their digestion, but the exact schedule can fit your routine. For portion sizes, check the food label and ask your vet.5

What should a Jagdterrier eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A high-quality dog food suited to their age and high activity level is ideal. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and many others listed by the ASPCA. Always avoid human treats and consult your vet for a balanced diet.6

How often should I bathe a Jagdterrier?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and general guidance recommends at least every three months. Their low-maintenance coat doesn't need frequent bathing unless they get very dirty. Use a gentle dog shampoo.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Jagdterrier need brushing?

A weekly brush keeps their dense coat in good condition, as Pet Wiki's plan recommends. Both rough and smooth coats benefit from this routine to remove loose hair and dirt. It's a quick, bonding task.327 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Jagdterrier's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 3 weeks or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.7 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Jagdterrier need?

This spirited terrier needs vigorous daily exercise plus training or scent tasks to stay happy. Pet Wiki suggests daily walks and play, but they thrive on active jobs and mental challenges. A tired Jagdterrier is a content one.31 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Jagdterrier's teeth and ears?

Brush their teeth daily if possible, or at least 2, 3 times a week with dog toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks and clean gently without pushing anything into the canal. Regular care prevents problems and keeps them comfortable.7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Jagdterrier live?

Jagdterriers typically live 12 to 14 years, a good long life for a small, sturdy dog. With proper care and regular vet checkups, many enjoy their full lifespan.1

Is a Jagdterrier good with children and other pets?

When well raised and socialized, they can be steady and sociable with children. However, their strong prey drive means caution around small pets like cats or rodents. Early training and supervision are key.321

Can a Jagdterrier be left alone?

They form tight bonds with their owner and thrive on structured activity, so long periods alone may cause stress. They do best in homes where someone is around most of the day or they have plenty of enrichment. If left alone, provide toys and a secure space.21

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. Wikipedia: German Hunting Terrier en.wikipedia.orgused for weights by sex, lifespan, history, US club
  2. UKC: Jagdterrier ukcdogs.comused for UKC recognition, weight, coat, colours, temperament
  3. FCI Standard No. 103 Deutscher Jagdterrier fci.beused for recognition, height, coat, colours, temperament, history
  4. en.wikipedia.org en.wikipedia.org
  5. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  7. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.