Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound

The Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound's origins go back to 19th-century Germany. These dogs started from German Bracken hunting dogs but were carefully bred to handle Bavaria's tough, mountainous terrain.

Back then, hunters needed dogs to keep up with big game like deer and wild boar in the rocky, forested landscapes. So, they bred dogs for their agility and ability to follow scent trails for miles. The Bavarian Mountain Hound is believed to be a mix between a German Shepherd, Bloodhound, Great Dane, Labrador Retriever, Rhodesian Ridgeback, and a Hanover Hound. 

Recognition for this breed came in 1996 from the United Kennel Club (UKC). The American Kennel Club (AKC) included this breed in its Foundation Stock Service in 2016.

1. Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound History- Source: AKC

In 2017, the Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound Society of America was formed to protect and promote the breed. They aim to preserve the unique qualities of these dogs and ensure they continue to thrive.

Today, these dogs still hold true to their roots as skilled hunting companions, loved for their smarts, loyalty, and determination.

Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds are renowned for their vibrant personalities, making them ideal family pets. They possess a unique combination of intelligence and activity, thriving on outdoor play and adventure.

These dogs are not ones to laze around indoors; they prefer the excitement of running and exploring outdoors. Engaging them in mentally stimulating games adds an extra layer of enjoyment to their lives.

• Bavarian Mountain Hounds' temperament

Despite their energetic nature, Bavarian Mountain Hounds are friendly and approachable with strangers, showcasing their loyal and affectionate nature towards their owners. Forming strong bonds with their human companions, they eagerly await opportunities for shared activities and companionship.

However, their loyalty can sometimes translate into separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. So, it's essential to provide them with ample attention and companionship to ensure their happiness and well-being.

• Potential Separation Anxiety

Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds are known for their loyalty and attachment to their owners. This bond is a positive aspect of the breed. However, it can also lead to separation anxiety when they are left alone for extended periods. 

Owners should gradually acclimate their dogs to being alone. Providing plenty of mental and physical enrichment in their absence is important. Consider strategies such as crate training or hiring a dog walker to help alleviate separation anxiety.

The Bavarian Mountain Hound presents a picture of strength, elegance, and purpose.

• Size

Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds are medium-sized dogs known for their sturdy build. 

They typically stand between 17 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder for males, and slightly shorter at 16 to 19 inches for females. Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound weight is between 44 to 55 pounds. Their robust physique reflects their heritage as working dogs.

• Coat Color

They sport a short, dense coat that protects against the elements during their outdoor adventures. 

The most common coat colors for this breed are brindle, fawn or shades of red or tan, often accented with distinctive black saddle or blanket markings. 

These markings typically appear on the back and sides of the dog, adding to their unique and eye-catching appearance. 

1. Tan Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound- Source: bavarian_mountain_scenth
2. Brown Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound- Source: bavarian_mountain_scenth
3. Brindle Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound- Source: bavarian_mountain_scenth

Male Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds tend to be slightly longer larger and more muscular than females. Other than that, there are no notable differences in their temperament and behaviors.

Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds require a high-quality diet tailored to their age, size, and activity level to maintain their health and energy levels. 

Look for dog foods with protein-rich ingredients like chicken or fish, avoiding fillers and artificial additives. Monitor portion sizes to prevent overfeeding and consult with your veterinarian for personalized feeding recommendations. 

Keep fresh water readily available at all times and use healthy, low-calorie treats in moderation for rewards and training purposes. 

Prioritizing proper nutrition helps ensure your Bavarian Mountain Hound stays healthy and happy throughout their life.

Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds may be prone to several health conditions, including:

• Elbow and Hip Dysplasia: These are developmental conditions where the joints of the elbows or hips don't develop properly, leading to abnormal wear and tear, pain, and eventual arthritis. It can cause lameness and discomfort in affected dogs and may require medical or surgical intervention to manage.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): PRA is a genetic condition that causes the degeneration of the retina, leading to progressive vision loss and eventual blindness. Early signs include night blindness and difficulty navigating in low light conditions. While there is no cure for PRA, supportive care and management strategies can help affected dogs adapt to their condition.
• Epilepsy: Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. While the exact cause is often unknown, it can be genetic or triggered by underlying health issues. Seizures can vary in severity and frequency, ranging from mild episodes to more severe convulsions. 

Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for early detection and management of health issues. Your veterinarian can guide you on vaccinations, parasite control, and preventive measures tailored to your dog's specific needs.

A balanced diet tailored to your dog's age, size, and activity level is essential for maintaining overall health and vitality. Choose high-quality dog food with protein-rich ingredients and avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity, which can exacerbate joint issues.

Regular exercise is also important for keeping your Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound healthy and fit. Engage them in daily walks, play sessions, or activities like hiking or tracking to fulfill their physical and mental stimulation needs.

Taking care of your Bavarian Mountain Hound is pretty easy because of their short coats. However, they may need more frequent brushing only during shedding season.

Brushing their teeth with dog toothpaste helps prevent dental issues and keeps their breath fresh. Along with dental care, they need their nails trimmed regularly to keep them comfortable.

Cleaning their ears is important too. Use a gentle cleanser recommended by your vet to keep them healthy and free from infections.

By staying on top of these simple grooming tasks, you can keep your Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound looking and feeling their best.

Rescue organizations specialize in finding homes for Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds and other hound breeds. Adopting from a rescue is a rewarding way to provide a loving home to a dog in need.

BMHS.org

PawsitiveRescue.org

The average Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound price ranges from $1000 to $1500. When purchasing Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound puppies, it's important to seek out reputable breeders.

GlennyTracking.com

PetzLover.com

• These hounds are renowned for their exceptional tracking ability, particularly in challenging environments like dense forests and steep mountain terrain. 
• Despite their impressive hunting abilities and admirable traits, Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds remain relatively rare outside of their native Germany.

Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds excel in hunting and tracking activities but also make loyal and affectionate family pets for active households.