Westphalian Dachsbracke

Also called Westfälische Dachsbracke, Westphalian Hound

Recognised breedFCI group 6Short profile

From Germany (Westphalia); the short-legged form of the German Hound.1 2

At a glance the quick version

Height30 to 38 cm1 3 2

Sizesmall

loyal and friendly

serious and alert worker

compact and powerful for its size

1 3

Coat and looks how to spot one

dense, coarse short coat

A long-bodied, sturdy little hound on short legs with a high-set tail. The rough, dense coat is shortest on the head and ears and a bit longer along the back and under the tail.1 3

Coloursred to yellow with black saddle or mantle and white hound markings1 3

Personality what they are like

A faithful, friendly hound with a calm, serious side when working. It is alert and focused on scent, with a gentle expression.1 3

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A working scent hound bred to track hare and fox, often in packs, so it enjoys regular walks and scent-based activities.1 2

The story where it all began

It was first described in 1886 as a short-legged variety of the German Hound and was recognised by the German Kennel Club in 1935. Swedish breeders used it to create the Drever, which has since become better known. It remains uncommon even in Germany.2 1

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
It is the ancestor of the Swedish Drever, which is now more widespread than the Dachsbracke itself.2
2
The white face blaze, collar, chest and tail tip are called 'Bracken' markings.2
3
Under the FCI standard it must pass a working trial to become a champion.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name 'Westphalian Dachsbracke' combines 'Westphalian' (from the region of Westphalia in Germany) and 'Dachsbracke', which refers to a short-legged hound. It is the short-legged variety of the German Hound (Bracke), and 'Dachs' means badger in German, reflecting its historical use for hunting badgers.1

Name ideas for your new friend

BrunoHeidiFritzGretaWaldLotteKaiserLieselJägerMoppelTrudiRudi

A day in the life told by a Westphalian Dachsbracke

Today I woke up early and sniffed the garden fence, just in case. My human laughed and said I had my 'serious face' on. We went to the forest trail, and I found a wonderful scent that led me on a merry chase around a tree. I wagged my tail so hard it thumped against a log. Later, we sat on a bench, and I rested my chin on her knee, watching the world go by. At home, I curled up on my cushion, dreaming of hares. It was a good day, full of smells and quiet company.

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

Recognised by the official bits

FCI: Standard no. 100, Group 6 Scent hounds, Section 1.3 Small-sized hounds; standard dated 24.06.1987; working trial required.1
UKC: Scenthound Group; recognised 2006.3
VDH (German Kennel Club): Recognised in 1935 according to Wikipedia.2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

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

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
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

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 Oat Biscuits

These simple, three-ingredient biscuits are full of fibre and antioxidants from blueberries, and are easy to make in small sizes for toy and small dogs.

You need

100g oats
1 banana (mashed)
40g fresh blueberries (chopped)
a little water (as needed)

How

Preheat your oven to 175°C.
Mix the mashed banana, oats and chopped blueberries together in a bowl.
Add splashes of water a little at a time, stirring until the mixture comes together in one large ball.
Roll the mixture out on a lightly floured surface to about 1–2 cm thick.
Use a small cookie cutter or a knife to cut out shapes suitable for a small dog.
Place the shapes on a lined baking tray and bake for 15–20 minutes until slightly browned.
Leave to cool completely before serving.

How much: Give one small biscuit per day for a toy or small dog, and reduce their main meal accordingly.

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 Westphalian Dachsbracke, and at what times?

Feed your Westphalian Dachsbracke 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 your vet can help set the best times and portions for your dog.4 Pet Wiki plan

What should a Westphalian Dachsbracke eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for your dog's age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, so keep these away from your dog.5

How often should I bathe a Westphalian Dachsbracke?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests bathing every 8 weeks, and general guidance says at least every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues, but always use a dog-safe shampoo.6 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Westphalian Dachsbracke need brushing?

Brush your Westphalian Dachsbracke weekly to keep its dense, coarse coat healthy and remove loose hair. Furry Diary's starting plan recommends brushing every 7 days.6 Pet Wiki plan

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

Trim nails every 3 weeks or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick, and use a dog nail trimmer.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Westphalian Dachsbracke need?

This breed enjoys daily walks and scent-based activities, as it is a working hound. Furry Diary's starting plan includes daily walks and play to keep it happy and healthy.1 2 Pet Wiki plan

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

Brush teeth daily with dog toothpaste, and check ears weekly for moisture or dirt, especially since floppy ears can trap moisture. Never push anything into the ear canal.6 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Westphalian Dachsbracke live?

Lifespan varies by individual, but with good care, many dogs live into their early teens. Your vet can give more specific guidance for your dog.

Is a Westphalian Dachsbracke good with children and other pets?

This breed is described as faithful and friendly, with a gentle expression, so it can be good with children and other pets when properly socialized. Always supervise interactions.1 3

Can a Westphalian Dachsbracke be left alone?

This hound is alert and focused, but being left alone for long periods may not suit its social nature. It's best to ask a good breeder or vet for advice based on your dog's personality.

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.