Bavarian Mountain Hound
The Bavarian Mountain Hound, known in Germany as the Bayerischer Gebirgsschweisshund, is a specialist scent hound developed in Bavaria during the nineteenth century.
Bred specifically for tracking wounded game across the demanding terrain of the Bavarian Alps, the breed was created by crossing the larger Hanoverian Scenthound with smaller, more agile hounds suited to mountain work.
20-25kg
Weight
Medium
Size
11-13yrs
Lifespan
About the Bavarian Mountain Hound
This careful selection produced a dog capable of following cold scent trails left by injured deer and boar many hours after the animal has passed. Standing 44 to 52 centimetres at the shoulder and weighing 20 to 25 kilograms, this medium-sized hound features a short, dense coat typically in shades of red, fawn, tan, or brindle, often with a darker muzzle and back. In temperament, Bavarian Mountain Hounds are calm and steady at home, displaying deep loyalty to their handlers, though they remain working dogs at heart. In the United Kingdom, the breed remains rare and is primarily kept by dedicated hunting enthusiasts. As a family companion, they require more than two hours of daily exercise and considerable mental stimulation, making them best suited to active, rural households with experience of working scenthounds.
Bavarian Mountain Hound at a Glance
- Group
- Hound
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 20–25 kg
- Height
- 44–52 cm
- Lifespan
- 11–13 years
- Coat
- Short
- Sheds
- Yes
- Exercise
- More than 2 hours per day
- Typical price
- £800–£1500
Bavarian Mountain Hound Lifestyle
The Bavarian Mountain Hound doesn't require a large home to be happy and thrives with a large garden to explore and run in. They suit a country lifestyle better than city living.
Dog Food for Bavarian Mountain Hound
Top-rated foods for Medium breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Recommended Food for Bavarian Mountain Hound
Bavarian Mountain Hound Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Bavarian Mountain Hound weighing around 23 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£4.26 - £4.54
Per month
£128 - £136
Per year
£1556 - £1658
Bavarian Mountain Hound Characteristics
The Bavarian Mountain Hound demands serious exercise and won't be happy with a quick stroll around the block and trains well and tends to enjoy learning new skills. They are very patient and gentle with kids, but can be left for short to moderate periods without issue. The coat benefits from a brush once or twice a week and sheds moderately. They are sharp and quick-witted, which is a joy, but means they need keeping mentally occupied.
Bavarian Mountain Hound Pros & Cons
Pros
- Thrives in a home environment with secure outdoor spaces to explore
- Loyal and affectionate by nature, with a talent for forming strong bonds
- Good with children when supervised
- Generally healthy with moderate grooming needs
Cons
- A high prey drive calls for vigilant supervision, especially outdoors
- Can be wary and suspicious of strangers
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods
- Can be strong-willed and stubborn without firm, consistent training
