Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound
Also known as Bayerischer Gebirgsschweisshund · Chien de Rouge de Baviere · Rastreador Montañes de Baviera
Germany, Leash (scent) Hounds
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 44–52 cm
- Weight
- 20–25 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Persistent
- Calm
- Focused
- Reserved
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound
The Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound is a medium-sized German scent hound developed to track wounded game, such as deer, in mountainous terrain by following blood scent on a leash. It is a compact, light-boned, agile hound with a short, dense coat in red or brindle shades, and drop ears. It is mainly a working hunting dog.
Temperament
Calm and balanced with its family, but very driven and persistent when tracking. Usually reserved with strangers. Best with owners who can offer it real scent work.
Exercise
Needs a lot of daily exercise and scent-based work. It is not suited to sedentary pet homes.
Grooming
A dense, close coat in red or brindle that sheds a fair amount in spring and autumn, when a stiff brush helps. Towel it off after a damp day in the forest.
Care & wellbeing
This is a blood-tracking specialist and happiest when it has real trailing work. Without it, set up scent games or tracking lines. Its heavy frame is better kept at a lean weight.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 22.5 kg adult- Water
- 900 ml–1.4 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,160 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A German tracking hound developed in the Bavarian mountains for following the scent trail of wounded game. Calm, determined and bred for work, it is mainly kept by hunters.
Health
There's limited reliable published information on health issues in the Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound. Breed clubs and your vet are the best sources.
Not every Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 year commitment
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound get?
Adult Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds typically stand about 44–52 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 20–25 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds live?
Typically 12–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Germany
- Type
- Leash (scent) Hounds
- Internationally recognised
- 1959