By Jags Goldie Last updated: 27th October 2022

Jagdterrier

By

Jags Goldie
Last updated: 27th October 2022

The Jagdterrier (pronounced: YAHK-terrier) is a breed of versatile dog used for hunting rabbits, hogs, foxes, and badgers both above and below the ground. It can also drive large animals like wild boars out of dense forests. It is a smallish, compact, and well-proportioned working dog characterized by elongated, slightly wedge-shaped head, pronounced jaw muscles, dark, oval eyes, high-set, V-shaped ears, moderately long neck, well-defined withers, well-sprung ribs, muscular loin, and a tail carried slightly raised.

Jagdterrier Pictures

Quick Information

Other NamesGerman Hunt/Hunting Terrier, German Jagdterrier,  Deutscher Jagdterrier
CoatPlain, dense, coarse smooth/hard rough
ColorBlack, grayish-black, dark-brown, yellow-red markings at the muzzle, chest, legs, and the eyebrows; small white markings may appear on toes and chest
Breed TypeCrossbreed
CategoryTerriers, Hunting Dogs
LifespanApproximately 12 years
WeightFemale: 17-19 lbs
Male: 20-22 lbs
SizeSmall
Height13-16 inches
SheddingModerate
Size of Litter5 puppies on average
TemperamentCourageous, sociable, intelligent, reliable, adaptable, strong willed
HypoallergenicNo
Good with ChildrenYes
BarkingExcessive when hunting
Country Originated inGermany
Competitive Registration/ Qualification InformationFCI, ANKC, UKC, NZKC, AKC (FSS)

Video: Jagdterrier Hunting Wild Boar

History

After World War I, a group of game managers and active hunters split from the Fox Terrier Club with an objective of creating a distinct breed that would deliver great hunting performance. The group included able cynologists and hunters like Carl Erich Grunewald, Walter Zangenberg, and Rudolf Frieb who chose a black and tan dog suitable for hunting underground.

Their efforts were well-supported when Lutz Heck/Hagenberg gifted Zangenberg four hunting dogs that were the descendants of purebred Fox Terriers. Today’s Jagdterriers have all evolved from these four black and tan hunting dogs. Herbert Lackner also joined the group, and through years of skillful breeding with the Welsh terrier and English Wirehaired terrier, they succeeded in developing the desired appearance of Jagdterriers.

Aside from natural hunting instincts, the breeders wanted to develop a multi-talented, hard, and well trainable dog. The Deutscher Jagdterrier Club or the German Hunting Terrier Club was established in 1926.

Temperament and Behavior

The German Hunting Terrier, owing to its high energy level and strong prey drive, is not suitable for owners with a sedentary lifestyle. It is loyal to its people but can be scrappy with other pets, never shy of picking fights, even with larger dogs. It tolerates children and enjoys playing with them. When it comes to hunting quarry, the Jagdterrier is hard, single-minded, bold, and agile by nature.

Care

Exercise

As a lively hunting breed, it needs loads of daily activity to keep it healthy and fit. It will enjoy an hour of regular exercise, such as a brisk walk on a leash, a game of fetch, or some off-leash play in a fenced yard.

Grooming

Brushing on a weekly basis using a fine comb will help your Jagdterrier’s coat look neat and tidy. Bathe your dog only when it has gotten into something filthy. Wipe its coat down using a damp cloth to keep it relatively clean.

Health Problems

German Jagdterriers are generally hardy, but some individuals may be affected by glaucoma, cataracts, deafness, Legg-Perthes disease, hip dysplasia, or hypothyroidism.

Training

Jagdterriers are often willful, which means they should be trained using firm, consistent methods. Make sure you do not repeat any lessons, as that might get your dog to ignore you.

Leash Training

Begin leash training by letting your pup get accustomed to wearing a leash. Cluck your tongue or use a single command like “food” or “treat” to teach your dog a sound cue. Make the sound when your pup is on a collar and leash. The moment it looks at you, offer a treat. Repeat this a few times and let your dog come to you. Back up some paces and offer the treat when it gets to you. Practice walking in an area with little noise and distraction before taking it outside.

Socialization

Owing to its strong hunting instincts, it needs proper socialization during puppyhood. This will keep it from being aggressive to other dogs and household pets. Start by acquainting it with strangers of various ages, toddlers, teenagers, adults, and elderly people. Meet different dogs – small and big, hairy and short-haired, puppies and adults. Introduce your dog to other animals, including cats, rabbits, birds, and hamsters, though it should be leashed before doing so.

Feeding

Give your German Hunting Terrier 1-2 cups of quality dry dog food on a daily basis. Make sure its diet is rich in protein and fat so that it gets the energy it needs for doing its hunting duties.

Interesting Facts

  • The Jagdterrier has been approved by the AKC to take part in Earthdog Events since January 1, 2016.

2 responses to “Jagdterrier”

  1. Rhonda says:

    How much are the puppies and are they registered if so which registry are the with
    Thank you very much
    Have a Good Day

    Rhonda

  2. Amy Payne says:

    Can you tell me if i habe a jagdterrier thank you

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