Schweizer Laufhund

Also called Swiss Hound, Chien Courant Suisse, Swiss Running Dog, Bernese Hound, Jura Hound

Recognised breedFCI group 6Short profile

From Switzerland.1 2

At a glance the quick version

Height, male49 to 59 cm1 3

Height, female47 to 57 cm1 3

Sizemedium

passionate, tireless hunter

sensitive and biddable

deeply attached to its owner

1 3

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, smooth, dense

A medium-sized, lean hound with a long, refined head, long muzzle and long ears, giving an impression of stamina and a noble bearing. The coat is short, smooth and dense, extra fine on the head and ears.1 3

ColoursBernese: white with black patches or saddle, tan markingsJura: tan with black blanket, or black with tan markingsLucerne: 'blue' speckled with black patches or saddle, tan markingsSchwyz: white with orange patches or saddle1 3

Personality what they are like

Lively and full of drive when on a scent, yet sensitive, willing and strongly bonded to its owner at home.1 3

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A hunting hound that follows hare, roe deer, fox and sometimes boar with independence and determination; needs long daily outings and scent work.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The short, smooth coat needs only simple, regular brushing.1

Company who they like around

Very attached to its owner and happiest with an active family or hunter who keeps it busy.1

The story where it all began

Hounds of this kind appear in a Roman-era mosaic at Avenches, and French scenthounds brought home by Swiss mercenaries shaped them further. Five varieties were standardised in 1882; after the Thurgau hound died out, a single standard for the four remaining varieties was adopted in 1933.1 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
A mosaic from Roman Avenches shows hounds very like today's Swiss Hounds.1
2
The four varieties are named after the Swiss regions of Bern, Jura, Lucerne and Schwyz, and differ mainly in colour.3
3
A fifth variety, the Thurgau hound, no longer exists.2
4
It is sometimes nicknamed the Swiss Beagle.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name 'Schweizer Laufhund' is German for 'Swiss running dog', referring to its Swiss origin and its role as a scenthound that hunts by giving tongue while running.4

Name ideas for your new friend

AlpsBellaJuraLuzernRheinThunVaudZermattBernClaudeEmilieGisela

A day in the life told by a Schweizer Laufhund

The morning air is full of stories. I put my nose to the ground and follow a trail of rabbit, then deer, then something mysterious. My humans let me lead on our hikes, and I show them all the best paths. I am a hunter, but at home I am a gentle giant. I lean against my person's legs and ask for belly rubs. When the kids play, I join in with a happy bark. I don't like loud noises, so I stay close when the world gets too much. My humans understand. At night, I curl up at the foot of the bed, my nose twitching in my dreams.

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

Recognised by the official bits

FCI: Standard no. 59, Group 6, Section 1.2 Medium-sized hounds, with working trial; one standard covering four varieties (Bernese, Jura, Lucerne, Schwyz).1
UKC: Scenthound Group, recognised 2006; all four varieties shown together.3

The care rhythm a typical week and year

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

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
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 8every year

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

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
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

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

Blueberry and Oat Bites

These three-ingredient treats are quick to make and packed with antioxidants from blueberries and fibre from oats. They are low in fat and perfect as a training reward.

You need

100g oats
1 banana (mashed)
40g fresh blueberries (chopped)
Splash of water (as needed)

How

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
In a bowl, mix the mashed banana, oats, and chopped blueberries together.
Add splashes of water gradually until the mixture comes together into a large ball.
Roll out the mixture on a lightly floured surface to about 1-2cm thick.
Use a knife or cookie cutter to cut into shapes.
Place the shapes on a lined baking tray.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until slightly browned.
Leave to cool completely before serving.

How much: Offer one or two bites per day for a medium-sized dog. Reduce your dog's usual food portion to account for these treats.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

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 Schweizer Laufhund, and at what times?

Feed your adult Schweizer Laufhund at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. A morning and evening schedule works well. Always follow the food label and your vet's advice for amounts.5

What should a Schweizer Laufhund eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A high-quality dog food suited to their age and activity level is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. For a full list, check with your vet.6

How often should I bathe a Schweizer Laufhund?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and general guidance recommends at least every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Schweizer Laufhund need brushing?

Brush your Schweizer Laufhund weekly to keep their short, smooth coat healthy and remove loose hair. Furry Diary's plan also recommends weekly brushing.7 Pet Wiki plan

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

Trim nails about every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid bleeding.7 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Schweizer Laufhund need?

This energetic hound needs long daily outings and scent work to stay happy. Plan for at least an hour of vigorous exercise each day, plus playtime.1 Pet Wiki plan

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

Brush teeth at least twice a week with dog toothpaste; daily is ideal. Check their floppy ears weekly and dry them gently, never push anything into the ear canal.7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Schweizer Laufhund live?

Lifespan varies, so it's best to ask your vet or a good breeder for typical expectations for this breed.

Is a Schweizer Laufhund good with children and other pets?

They are loyal and bond strongly with their family, but as a hunting hound they may chase small animals. Early socialisation is important; ask a breeder for specific advice.1 3

Can a Schweizer Laufhund be left alone?

They are very attached to their owner and may struggle with long periods alone. Provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation before leaving, and ask a breeder for guidance.1

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.