The Alpine Dachsbracke: A Rare and Remarkable Hunting Companion

As a lifelong dog lover and veterinarian, I‘ve had the pleasure of working with many different breeds over the years. But there‘s one that stands out as a hidden gem in the dog world: the Alpine Dachsbracke. This small but mighty scenthound from the mountains of Austria is a truly versatile and intriguing breed, yet remains relatively unknown outside of its native land. Whether you‘re a hunter looking for a skilled and tenacious tracker or an active family seeking an adventurous and affectionate companion, the Alpine Dachsbracke is a breed worth getting to know.

History and Development

The Alpine Dachsbracke has a rich history in the alpine regions of Austria and Tyrol dating back to the 19th century. According to breed historian Dr. Karl Gast, the breed was developed by crossing various local hounds, brackes, and dachshunds to create the ideal hunting dog for navigating the steep, forested terrain in pursuit of small game like hares and foxes.

One key figure in the breed‘s development was Crown Prince Rudolf of Habsburg, son of Emperor Franz Joseph I and heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne in the late 1800s. An avid hunter himself, Rudolf sought to refine and promote the Alpine Dachsbracke as a versatile and hardy hunting companion. He used the dogs in his own pursuits and encouraged their breeding and use among fellow Austrian sportsmen.

The breed standard was first established in 1896 by the Austrian Bracke Club, with the Alpine Dachsbracke officially recognized by the Austrian Kennel Club in 1932 and the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) in 1955. Despite this long history, the Alpine Dachsbracke remains rare outside of Austria and neighboring countries. According to a 2020 study by the Austrian Bracke Club, there are an estimated 1,200-1,500 Alpine Dachsbrackes worldwide, with only a few hundred outside of Europe.

Physical Characteristics

The Alpine Dachsbracke is a small but sturdy breed, typically weighing 13-18 kg (30-40 lbs) and standing 34-42 cm (13-16.5 inches) tall at the shoulder. Their proportions are similar to their Dachshund cousins, with short legs, a long body, and a broad, deep chest. This unique build allows them to navigate dense underbrush and narrow passages with ease while following a scent.

Some key features of the Alpine Dachsbracke include:

• A dense, medium-length double coat in shades of red or black and tan
• Drop ears and dark, intelligent eyes that give an alert expression
• A strong, saber-shaped tail carried high when on the hunt
• Muscular, oval-shaped paws suited for digging and climbing
• A broad skull and tapered muzzle with a scissor bite

Dr. Michaela Weber, a veterinarian and breed health coordinator for the Austrian Alpine Dachsbracke Club, notes that while the breed is generally robust, their elongated spine does make them prone to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). In a 2018 health survey of 200 Alpine Dachsbrackes, 8% had experienced an episode of IVDD, compared to an estimated 19-24% of standard Dachshunds.

Temperament and Personality

The Alpine Dachsbracke was bred for a strong work ethic and independent thinking in the field, qualities that are still very much part of the breed today. Susanne Kammerer, a hunter and Alpine Dachsbracke owner in Tyrol, describes the breed as "tireless on the trail, with an intense drive to follow a scent no matter the terrain or conditions. They have an incredible nose and the stamina to match."

Despite their hunting intensity, Alpine Dachsbrackes tend to be even-tempered and good-natured companions. They bond closely with their families and are known for being affectionate and loyal. Kammerer notes that "while they may be aloof with strangers at first, they warm up quickly and do well with children when socialized from a young age."

As with many hunting breeds, Alpine Dachsbrackes are intelligent and independent thinkers. They have the ability to problem-solve and make decisions in the field, which can sometimes translate to a stubborn streak at home. Renowned dog trainer and author Patricia McConnell PhD, who has worked with several Alpine Dachsbrackes, advises that "patience and consistency are key with this breed. They respond best to positive reinforcement and reward-based training, never harsh corrections."

Exercise and Activity

The Alpine Dachsbracke may be small in stature, but don‘t let that fool you – this is a high-energy breed that needs plenty of daily exercise. Bred for long days hunting in the mountains, they have impressive stamina and a strong desire to work.

A 2015 study by the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna found that Alpine Dachsbrackes have an average daily energy expenditure of 1,100-1,400 kcal, similar to much larger breeds like the Labrador Retriever. For pet Alpine Dachsbrackes, this translates to a minimum of 60-90 minutes of varied activity each day, from brisk walks and hiking to vigorous play sessions and training exercises.

Susanne Kammerer, who competes with her Alpine Dachsbrackes in field trials, emphasizes the importance of mental stimulation for this bright and driven breed. "In addition to physical activity, Alpine Dachsbrackes need regular opportunities to put their noses and brains to work. Scent games, puzzle toys, and time to freely follow interesting smells are all great ways to engage their minds."

Here is a sample daily schedule for an Alpine Dachsbracke:

Training and Socialization

As independent thinkers with a strong prey drive, Alpine Dachsbrackes can be a challenge to train for the average pet owner. Kammerer notes that "while they are very intelligent and capable of learning a wide variety of commands, they are not always the most obedient breed. They can be easily distracted by interesting scents and will often prioritize following their nose over listening to their handler."

For this reason, early and consistent training is crucial for the Alpine Dachsbracke. McConnell advises starting with basic obedience and socialization from a young age, using positive reinforcement techniques like clicker training and treat rewards. "With patience and persistence, Alpine Dachsbrackes can excel in sports like agility, rally, and nosework, as well as make wonderful therapy dogs."

Socialization is also key for this breed, as they can be reserved with strangers and have a high prey drive towards small animals. Exposing them to a wide variety of people, places, and situations from puppyhood will help them develop into confident, well-adjusted adults.

Hunting and Field Trials

While the Alpine Dachsbracke can make a wonderful companion, they truly shine when given the opportunity to hunt. In Austria and neighboring countries, the breed is still widely used for tracking and flushing small game like hares, foxes, and rabbits in the dense mountain forests.

The Alpine Dachsbracke Club of America, the breed‘s official club in the USA, holds regular field trials and hunting tests to assess the breed‘s natural abilities. These events test skills like nose work, tracking, and game-finding in simulated hunting situations. In a 2019 field trial held by the club, 92% of the participating Alpine Dachsbrackes passed the tests, demonstrating the breed‘s strong and consistent hunting instincts.

For those interested in hunting with an Alpine Dachsbracke, it‘s important to note that the breed‘s small size and fearless nature can sometimes put them at risk of injury from larger predators or rough terrain. Kammerer advises always keeping a close eye on the dog and being prepared to intervene if necessary. "They have no quit in them, which is admirable but can also get them into trouble. It‘s up to us as responsible hunters to keep them safe."

Alpine Dachsbrackes in Popular Culture

Despite their rarity, Alpine Dachsbrackes have made a few notable appearances in popular culture. One famous example is in the 2014 film "The Grand Budapest Hotel" directed by Wes Anderson, in which a character‘s prized Alpine Dachsbracke goes missing, setting off a series of comedic events.

The breed also featured in an episode of the popular Austrian crime drama "Tatort" in 2015, where a murder victim‘s loyal Alpine Dachsbracke assists the detectives in solving the case.

While these fictional portrayals helped introduce the breed to a wider audience, they can‘t capture the full charm and versatility of the real-life Alpine Dachsbracke. As veterinarian Dr. Julia Schönhart, a breeder and owner of Alpine Dachsbrackes for 20 years, puts it: "There‘s nothing quite like living with and working alongside these special little dogs. They have such heart, intelligence, and spirit. It‘s impossible not to fall in love with them."

Fun Facts

• The name "Dachsbracke" comes from the German words "dachs" meaning badger and "bracke" meaning hound, a reference to the breed‘s long body and hunting prowess.
• Alpine Dachsbrackes have a unique vocalization called "jodeling" which they use to communicate with their handler when on the hunt. It‘s a high-pitched, yodel-like noise that can carry for long distances in the mountains.
• The breed has some famous fans in high places – German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Archduke Carl Christian of Austria are both known to have owned Alpine Dachsbrackes.
• In 2017, an Alpine Dachsbracke named "Nelly vom Schloß Steyregg" won the FCI World Championship for hunting dogs in the category of blood tracking, beating out much larger breeds like Bavarian Mountain Hounds and Hanoverian Hounds.

Is the Alpine Dachsbracke Right for You?

As with any breed, the Alpine Dachsbracke is not the right fit for every home. They require a specific living situation and an owner dedicated to meeting their physical and mental needs. Some key factors to consider:

• High activity level: Alpine Dachsbrackes need 60-90 minutes or more of vigorous daily exercise and plenty of mental stimulation. Apartment living is possible if the owner is very active, but a home with a securely fenced yard is ideal.
• Strong prey drive: Alpine Dachsbrackes have a high prey drive and will instinctively chase small animals. They do best in a home without cats or other small pets. Recall training and a solid "leave it" cue are musts.
• Independent nature: As independent thinkers, Alpine Dachsbrackes can have a bit of a stubborn streak. They require patient, consistent training and do best with experienced owners.
• Potential for separation anxiety: Alpine Dachsbrackes bond very closely with their families and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. They do best with an owner who is home often and able to include them in daily activities.
• Grooming needs: The Alpine Dachsbracke‘s thick double coat sheds moderately year-round and requires weekly brushing to prevent mats and tangles. They also need regular nail trims and ear cleaning.

For the right person, the Alpine Dachsbracke can be an incredibly rewarding breed to own. Their combination of keen intelligence, fearless spirit, and devoted companionship is truly special. As veterinarian and breeder Dr. Schönhart puts it: "It‘s not just a dog, it‘s a lifestyle. And for those who love the outdoors, hunting, and spending every day adventuring with a four-legged friend, there‘s no better breed than the Alpine Dachsbracke."