Skip to content
CaninpediaDog Breeds

German Hunting Terrier

A small black-and-tan hunter with formidable energy, the Jagdterrier is first and foremost a working dog for experienced hunters.

Photo of the German Hunting Terrier dog breed
Photo: Svenska Mässan from Sweden — CC BY 2.0 (source)

History and origins

The German Hunting Terrier (Jagdterrier) was created in Germany in the 1920s by hunters who wanted a versatile terrier bred purely for ability: going to ground, blood tracking and retrieving on land and from water.

Today it is still mainly a hunting dog.

Temperament

Brave, tenacious and tireless, the Jagdterrier is very attached to its owner but can be wary of strangers and aggressive towards other animals.

It needs an experienced owner, firm training and a real job.

Health

This is a very robust breed. Lens luxation has been reported in the breed.

Hunting injuries are the main risk; regular veterinary follow-up is recommended.

This is general information. For any question about your dog's health, consult a veterinarian.

Feeding

A rich diet suited to intense activity suits it.

Adjust the ration between hunting and rest periods.

Exercise

It needs a lot of activity, ideally hunting or intense scent work, for several hours a week.

It is unsuited to a sedentary life.

It copes fairly well with heat, but its intensity at work means hunting or training should happen in the cool hours, with water. It does not suit apartment life or a family with no hunting experience.

Grooming

Its rough or smooth coat needs weekly brushing.

Check regularly for injuries, ticks and grass seeds after outings.

Back to all breeds