Pet Wiki

Kromfohrländer

Also called Kromfohrlander

Recognised breedFCI group 9Short profile

From Germany, the Siegerland area of North Rhine-Westphalia, shortly after 1945.12

At a glance the quick version

Weight, male11 to 16 kg213
Weight, female9 to 14 kg213
Height38 to 46 cm213
Sizemedium

UKC gives 20-35 lb (about 9-16 kg) for the breed overall.

adaptable family companion
sensitive and loyal
lively and playful
34

Coat and looks how to spot one

rough (wire) or smooth coat

Comes in two coat types. The rough coat is dense and wiry with a beard and a short soft undercoat, while the smooth coat is soft and close-lying, without a beard but with feathering on the legs and a plumed tail.23

Colourswhite with light brown to dark brown or tan patches or saddle213

Personality what they are like

A lively, adaptable companion that is devoted to its family and a little reserved with strangers. It has only a mild hunting drive, which makes it a home-loving dog rather than a hunter.324

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Moderate: a spirited medium dog that enjoys daily walks and play with its people.3

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Both coat types are low-fuss; regular brushing keeps the coat tidy, and the rough coat may be hand-stripped for a neat look.3

Home where they are happiest

Described as a house and companion dog, so it fits well into family homes.3

Company who they like around

Bonds closely with its owners and prefers to be part of family life.43

The story where it all began

The breed began in 1945 when Ilse Schleifenbaum took in a griffon-type dog called Peter, left behind by American soldiers near Siegen. His litter with a fox terrier-type neighbour, Fiffi, was strikingly uniform, so she bred on from it. The dogs were recognised in 1955 and named after the Krom Fohr area where the family had land.12

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    The name comes from the local dialect words 'krom fohr', meaning a crooked furrow.1

  2. 2

    Kromfohrländers are known for a 'smile' and for sneezing as a greeting.4

  3. 3

    The breed made its international show debut in Dortmund in 1955.1

  4. 4

    Finland became a second home for the breed and in some years registers more puppies than Germany.1

Name ideas for your new friend

FritzGretelHansLieselBrunoSusiKaiMinaMaxFriedaOskarLeni

A day in the life told by a Kromfohrländer

I watched the postman from the window, no need to shout. Then we went to the park; I wiggled at my dog friends and we chased a stick or two. Back home, I napped on the sofa, one ear up. I followed my human to the kitchen, sat nicely, and got a cuddle. In the evening, we played tug-of-war with a plush toy. I gave everyone a good- night lick. Not much adventure, just the right amount of love.

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

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard no. 192, Group 9 (Companion and Toy Dogs), Section 10; recognised in 1955 by the German kennel club and the FCI.2
UKC
Recognised 1 January 1996; moved from the Terrier Group to the Companion Dog Group in 2013.3

The care rhythm a typical week and year

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

Treats they will love homemade and simple

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 Kromfohrländer, and at what times?

Feed your Kromfohrländer at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests daily feeding, and it's best to stick to set times each day. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.5 Pet Wiki plan

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

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and size. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, as listed by the ASPCA. Always avoid these and consult your vet for a complete list.6

How often should I bathe a Kromfohrländer?

Bathe your Kromfohrländer about every eight weeks, or at least once every three months. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests this frequency, but you can bathe more often if they get dirty or have skin issues. Use a gentle dog shampoo.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Kromfohrländer need brushing?

Brush your Kromfohrländer weekly to keep their coat tidy, as Furry Diary's starting plan suggests. The rough coat may also be hand-stripped for a neat look. Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and keeps them comfortable.3 Pet Wiki plan

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

Trim nails about every four weeks, or sooner if you hear 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 Kromfohrländer need?

This breed needs moderate daily exercise, like walks and playtime with their people. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests daily walks and play. They are spirited but adaptable, so a good walk each day keeps them happy.3 Pet Wiki plan

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

Brush their teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste, never human toothpaste. Check and dry their floppy ears weekly to prevent moisture buildup, as Furry Diary's plan suggests. Never push anything into the ear canal.7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Kromfohrländer live?

The lifespan of a Kromfohrländer varies, but they are generally a healthy breed. For specific longevity information, ask your vet or a reputable breeder. Regular vet check-ups help ensure a long, happy life.

Is a Kromfohrländer good with children and other pets?

Yes, they are a devoted family dog and bond closely with their owners. They have a mild hunting drive and are home-loving, so they usually get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized. Always supervise early interactions.324

Can a Kromfohrländer be left alone?

They prefer to be part of family life and can become lonely if left alone for long periods. It's best to gradually accustom them to short absences and provide company or enrichment. For specific advice, ask a good breeder or trainer.43

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. Kromfohrländer - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for size, history, fun facts
  2. Kromfohrländer - Wikipedia (German) de.wikipedia.orgused for FCI standard, size, coat, colours, temperament, history
  3. Kromfohrlander - United Kennel Club ukcdogs.comused for recognition, size, coat, colours, temperament
  4. Kromfohrlander - AKC akc.orgused for temperament, fun fact
  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.