14 things to know before getting an Alpenländische Dachsbracke
Thinking about welcoming an Alpenländische Dachsbracke into your home? Good news: you're already doing the smart thing by researching first.
This little Austrian scent hound is loyal, lively, and loaded with personality. But it also comes with a few quirks that catch first-time owners off guard.
Below, you'll get the honest rundown — the good, the challenging, and the "wish I'd known that sooner." Let's dig in.
1. They're Rare — and Proudly Austrian
The Alpenländische Dachsbracke (say that three times fast) comes from Austria, where it was bred to track game across steep, mountainous terrain.
Here's the catch: if you live outside Europe, finding a reputable breeder can be tough — and expensive.
Importing one means extra paperwork, careful transport planning, and making sure the pup's journey is safe and stress-free. It's not impossible, but it takes patience.
2. Small but Tough — and a Little Fragile
These dogs stand just 13–16 inches tall and weigh around 33–40 pounds. Compact enough for apartment life, but still solidly built.
Their manageable size makes them easier to handle than big breeds. But their low-slung frame means you've got to watch for accidental injuries.
Teach kids to be gentle, and give your pup a warm, cozy spot to rest. A jacket for cold walks isn't a bad idea either.
3. Active — But Not Over the Top
Good news for busy owners: these aren't hyperactive dogs that need to run marathons.
They do need 30–60 minutes of activity a day to stay fit and content. Walks, hikes, fetch, agility, or scent work all fit the bill nicely.
But skip the exercise, and here's what happens next: digging, chewing, and barking out of pure boredom.
30–60 min
Daily activity to keep them happy and out of trouble
Exercise keeps them balanced — but what are they actually like to live with?
4. Friendly, Loyal, and Family-Oriented
Alpenländische Dachsbrackes are known for being social, affectionate, and deeply devoted to their people.
They typically do well with children and other pets — with one exception we'll get to in a moment (that prey drive is real).
Children
Great with supervisionLoyal and gentle, but teach kids to handle them carefully.
Other dogs
Usually goodSocial by nature, especially with early socialization.
Cats
Case by casePossible with careful introductions and training.
Small pets
RiskyRabbits and rodents can trigger their hunting instinct.
They're smart and trainable, but they still crave daily interaction, structure, and early socialization to become their best selves.
5. Strong Instincts = Strong Prey Drive
Don't let that adorable face fool you. This dog was built to hunt.
That means squirrels, rabbits, and even the neighbor's cat can become instant targets if the opportunity arises.
Managing the prey drive
- Leash up in open areasOff-leash freedom near wildlife is asking for a chase.
- Channel the instinctScent-tracking games and nose work satisfy their natural drive.
- Set realistic expectationsWithout serious training, they won't ignore wildlife on command.
“Fighting a hunting dog's instincts is a losing battle. The smart move is to redirect them into something fun.”
6. Low-Maintenance Coat, But Still Some Shedding
Their short, dense coat is refreshingly easy to care for. A weekly brush and the occasional bath usually does the trick.
That said, they shed moderately year-round — so regular brushing keeps loose fur under control (a big deal if anyone in the house has allergies).
Grooming is simple — but their health needs a closer eye.
7. Health Concerns Worth Watching
Like many breeds, the Alpenländische Dachsbracke has a few health tendencies to keep on your radar.
- Hip dysplasia — common in many active breeds; regular vet checks help catch it early.
- Ear infections — thanks to those floppy ears (see the tip above).
- Eye issues like cataracts as they age.
- Obesity — sneaks up fast if exercise slips or treats pile up.
The bottom line? Routine vet visits, a healthy weight, and early attention to warning signs go a long way toward keeping them thriving.
8. Easy to Train — With the Right Approach
These dogs respond beautifully to positive reinforcement: praise, treats, and consistency.
Harsh methods? They backfire. Your pup will shut down or dig in their heels.
And here's the thing — they can be stubborn. That's where patience earns its keep.
- Start training early, while they're young and impressionable
- Keep sessions short, fun, and rewarding
- Always end on a positive note
- Rely on punishment or scolding
- Skip socialization to save time
Socialization Is Non-Negotiable
Expose your pup to new people, places, sounds, and animals early and often.
This prevents fear-based behavior and builds a confident, adaptable dog. Go slow, and pair every new experience with rewards so they form positive associations.
9. They Can Be Vocal
Fair warning: these dogs bark. Sometimes a lot.
It's baked into their DNA as watchdogs and hunters. You won't eliminate it entirely — but you can absolutely manage it.
Teach a solid "quiet" command, identify their triggers, and keep them mentally and physically tired. A stimulated dog is a quieter dog.
10. Affectionate — But Prone to Anxiety
These dogs adore their families and want to be right by your side. Sweet, right?
The flip side: they're prone to separation anxiety when left alone too long.
Pros
The upside of their devotion
- Loving, loyal companions
- Bond deeply with their people
- Great velcro dogs for homebodies
Cons
The challenge
- Can struggle when left alone
- May develop separation anxiety
- Need a plan for long work days
11. Adaptable — With Caveats
From apartments to rural homes, this breed can adjust to different living situations — as long as their needs are met.
They truly shine when they have outdoor space to sniff and explore. Deny them that stimulation, and boredom-driven destruction tends to follow.
Frequently Asked Questions
They can be, if you're active and committed to training and socialization. Their stubborn streak and strong prey drive mean you'll need consistency and patience — but they're not an overwhelming breed for a dedicated beginner.
Yes, they can be vocal — it's part of their watchdog and hunting heritage. You won't silence them completely, but a "quiet" command, plenty of exercise, and managing their triggers make a big difference.
Not too long. These dogs bond closely and are prone to separation anxiety. A few hours is manageable with crate training and toys, but full work days may call for a walker or daycare.
Generally yes — they're loyal and affectionate. Just teach kids to handle them gently, since their low-slung build can be injured by rough play.
Other dogs, usually fine. Cats can work with careful introductions. Small pets like rabbits are risky because of their hunting instinct.
About 30–60 minutes of daily activity. Walks, hikes, fetch, and especially scent work keep them fit and mentally satisfied.
They shed moderately year-round despite their short coat. A weekly brush keeps loose fur in check — helpful if allergies are a concern.
For most owners, it's a combination of the prey drive, the vocal nature, and their dislike of being left alone. Plan for all three and you'll set yourself — and your dog — up for success.
“Rare, spirited, and endlessly loyal — this little Austrian hunter rewards the owner who's ready to meet it halfway.”
Sviatoslav Oleksiv founded The Pets and Love in 2019. A lifelong pet owner and Rhodesian Ridgeback enthusiast, he writes and edits our guides to help fellow pet parents give their animals the best care.
Every guide follows our editorial standards. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice — always consult a licensed veterinarian about your pet's health.