JAGDTERRIER DOG BREED

Description:

The Jagdterrier is a working dog, originally from Germany. Even during the 17^th century, Jagdterriers were highly prized by hunters in the British Isles for their extraordinary abilities. After the demand for sporting and hunting terriers fell sharply, the Jagdterrier virtually went extinct. However, the renewal began in the 1970s, when several dogs were brought from Ireland and England to the United States. This breed is still a rarity though. The Jagdterrier has not yet been recognized by the AKC.

Height: 13-16 inches  Weight: 17-22 pounds  Lifespan: 9-10 years

Characteristics:

The Jagdterrier is a fearless, very active and assertive breed of dog. He is small, agile and muscular, with somewhat square shape and a narrow chest. Such a structure allows the Jagdterrier to easily penetrate into fox and badger burrows. This intelligent breed is still primarily a hunting dog, which is distinguished by a strong prey instinct drive.

Character:

It should be understood that Jagdterrier originally never intended to be just a pet. However, this is a faithful dog, which is very attentive and loving. This makes the Jagdterries a perfect family pet. This breed gets along well with older children, since they know how to handle the dog. On the contrary, Jagdterriers are quite cold and reserved with strangers, which makes them very good guards. A dog of this breed is not recommended for families that already have dogs or other pets, as the Jagdterrier cannot find a common language with them. Furthermore, this breed is not recommended for people with no previous experience. This breed of dog has a fairly rapid and violent character, it is stubborn and tends to seize dominance.

Coat / Care:

Dogs of this breed are divided into three different subtypes: Smooth-haired, wire-haired and coarse-haired. The Jagdterrier usually comes in black and tan, with black and tan markings. Regardless of the type, the coat is an excellent protection from adverse weather conditions. Smooth-haired Jagdterriers are covered with a smooth, short and dense coat, which is fitting tightly to the dog’s body. Wire-haired subspecies are dressed in a long, tight-fitting, thick, stiff coat. The coarse-haired Jagdterrier has a double coat. The outer layer is very dense and has a wiry structure, while the undercoat is dense and short. The dog’s muzzle and eyes are adorned with strands of longer hair. You should brush and comb your pet at least once a week. In addition, make sure to regularly check its paws, ears and claws.

Health Problems:

The Jagdterrier is generally healthy breed, but like all breeds, they’re prone to genetic breed disorder known as Primary Lens Luxation (PLL). The Jagdterrier lifespan is much shorter than average for small breeds. This breed has a life expectancy of 9 to 10 years.

Weight / Height

The male Jagdterrier dog breed’s height is around 13 – 16 inches and weighs around 20 and 22 pounds. Female Jagdterrier dogs can reach a size from 13 – 16 inches and weighs between 17 and 19 pounds.

Training:

The Jagdterrier needs a strong, dominant owner. It is recommended to carry out early socialization and obedience training. Make sure to avoid too harsh or heavy-handed methods, as the training should be carried out on the basis of patience, consistency and fairness.

Activity:

Since this breed is highly energetic, Jagdterriers require a considerable amount of physical exercise and sports activities. Also, mental stimulation is very important. Representatives of this breed are not suitable for apartment living, neither for people who lead a sedentary lifestyle. Hence, the Jagdterrier thrives best on a farm, with a large, well-fenced yard or on a farm, where he will have a lot of space for active daily walks and hunting.

Photo credit: Philip Bussmann/Flickr; Philip Bussmann/Flickr; Philip Bussmann/Flickr