Pet Wiki

Alpine Dachsbracke

Also called Alpenländische Dachsbracke, Alpine-Erzgebirgs-Dachsbracke

Recognised breedFCI group 6Short profile

From Austria.12

At a glance the quick version

Weight15 to 18 kg2
Height34 to 42 cm12
Sizesmall

Weight from Wikipedia; the FCI standard does not set a weight.

fearless and steady
friendly, intelligent expression
tireless tracker in mountain terrain
12

Coat and looks how to spot one

dense double coat

A sturdy, longer-legged relative of the Dachshund with a close-fitting coat of thick outer hair over a dense undercoat that covers the whole body. FCI gives the ideal height as 37-38 cm for males and 36-37 cm for females.12

Coloursdark deer reddark deer red with black tickingblack with red-brown markings1

Personality what they are like

A brave, friendly and clever hound. Wikipedia notes that many get along well with children and other pets, while still having a keen hunting nose.12

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A working scenthound bred to follow trails over rough ground at high altitude, so it enjoys long walks, scent games and tracking work.2

Company who they like around

Friendly with people and generally easy with other dogs, reflecting its role as a hunter's partner.2

The story where it all began

The breed took shape in the Alps in the mid-1800s from larger hounds crossed with Dachshund-type dogs, producing a short-legged tracker able to work in steep country. Crown Prince Rudolf of Habsburg took these dogs on hunting trips to Egypt and Turkey in the 1880s. Austria recognised it in 1932 and the FCI settled its name in 1975.12

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    It was the third scenthound breed to be recognised in Austria, in 1932.1

  2. 2

    Crown Prince Rudolf of Habsburg brought these hounds on hunts in Egypt and Turkey in the 1880s.2

  3. 3

    It is a specialist at following the trail of wounded game such as deer and boar, even high in the mountains.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name 'Alpenländische Dachsbracke' translates to 'Alpine Dachsbracke' in English, with 'Dachsbracke' referring to a type of short-legged scent hound traditionally used for tracking badgers (Dachs) in the Alpine region of Austria.2

Name ideas for your new friend

EdelweissHansGretaLederBergFritzAlmaSchnitzelLieselRudiTrudiWolke

A day in the life told by an Alpine Dachsbracke

I wake to the smell of pine and my human lacing boots. I wag my whole body. We climb a steep trail, my nose glued to the ground. I find a rabbit track and yelp with joy. At the summit, I pant and watch the clouds. Back home, I flop by the fire, dreaming of tomorrow's adventure.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard no. 254, Group 6 (Scenthounds and related breeds), Section 2 Leash (scent) hounds; standard dated 18.06.1996. Recognised in Austria in 1932; FCI gave it its current name and assigned Austria as country of origin in 1975.1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for an Alpine Dachsbracke. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Alpine Dachsbracke, and at what times?

Feed your Alpine Dachsbracke at least two meals a day for an adult, and three to four smaller meals for a puppy. This helps keep their energy steady, as their stomach empties within a few hours. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.3

What should an Alpine Dachsbracke eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food suitable for their age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, which are especially harmful to dogs. Always avoid these and consult your vet for a safe diet plan.4

How often should I bathe an Alpine Dachsbracke?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests bathing every 56 days, or about once every two months. You can bathe more often if they get very dirty, but avoid over-bathing to protect their dense double coat. Pet Wiki plan

How often does an Alpine Dachsbracke need brushing?

Brush your Alpine Dachsbracke once a week, as recommended by Furry Diary's starting plan. This keeps their thick double coat healthy and reduces shedding. Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim an Alpine Dachsbracke's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 21 days, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.5 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does an Alpine Dachsbracke need?

This breed needs daily walks and play, as it is a working scenthound bred for long trails. Aim for at least one good walk each day, plus scent games or tracking to keep them happy.2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after an Alpine Dachsbracke's teeth and ears?

Brush their teeth daily with dog-safe toothpaste, and check their floppy ears weekly for moisture or dirt. Dry ears gently, and never push anything into the ear canal. Your vet can show you the best technique.5 Pet Wiki plan

How long does an Alpine Dachsbracke live?

The lifespan varies, but senior years usually start around age 10. For a more precise estimate, ask your vet, as individual health and care play a big role. Pet Wiki plan

Is an Alpine Dachsbracke good with children and other pets?

Yes, this breed is generally friendly with children and other pets, thanks to its brave and clever temperament. They are easy with other dogs, but their keen hunting nose means early socialisation helps.12

Can an Alpine Dachsbracke be left alone?

This varies by individual, as they are friendly and enjoy company. It's best to ask your vet or a good breeder for advice tailored to your dog's personality and needs.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. FCI Standard No. 254 Alpine Dachsbracke fci.beused for recognition, history, height, coat, colours, temperament
  2. Wikipedia: Alpine Dachsbracke en.wikipedia.orgused for history, weight, height, temperament, uses
  3. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  4. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.