Haven’t you sometimes thought that hunting dogs somehow have that certain something? Something primal, something calculating? And yet they are as affectionate and cuddly as any other dog. That is exactly why there are many people who do not pursue hunting and yet would like to have such a dog. But be careful: Inform yourself thoroughly before you cannot do justice to the animal.
Character of the Hanoverian Welding Dog
In short, we are dealing with a friendly dog that is calm and even-tempered. This dog can establish itself as the absolute calm pole of the family. The calmness he radiates naturally will captivate everyone. This calmness, coupled with a natural sovereignty, enables the owner to have this dog with him at all times, because he does not attract attention. Especially not negatively!
The strong character also shows in the training of the animal. Certainly, in the basic training it must first be shown who is in charge. For it must be clear to the owner that a dog intended for hunting, especially tracking, does not wait too long for commands. If it takes him too long, he will act on his own, according to his training and instincts. However, he has no problems to acknowledge his master as alpha person.
The historical background of the Hanoverian Welded Dog
If you look at the history of the Hanoverian Welding Dog, you will find that they go back to the original Bracken. Bracken, to remind us again, is another name for sweat dog. Bracken have been used by hunters for thousands of years.
We must not forget that in earlier times there were no precision rifles as we know them today for hunting. It was therefore essential for the hunter to be able to get quite close to the game with the help of the lead dog. These lead dogs were already named by the ancient Germanic tribes.
Over time, they took on further tasks in hunting. They gave rise to the Bracken, but also to the bloodhounds as we know them today. According to an old Germanic text, the Lex Baiuwariorum, which is already older than 1000 years, a good bloodhound was worth more than a horse. So it is not surprising that the breeding of these dogs was often reserved for the higher-ups in society. For only they could afford these expensive dogs.
In the Baroque era, many aristocrats kept so-called “hunter’s courts”. Here one could learn everything that had to do with hunting. Among other things, the art of breeding bloodhounds was taught. One of these hunting lodges can also be found in Hanover. Welding dogs have been bred there since 1657. Their training also took place at the hunting yard before they were transferred to their final owner.
The Hanoverian bloodhound as we know it today has only been bred since 1894 in the Hirschmann Club, which is based in Erfurt. To this day, it is in charge of breeding the Hanoverian Welding Dog. With great success, as you can see. For this dog breed is highly respected worldwide.
It is fascinating how responsibly this breeding has always been carried out, right up to the present day. Otherwise it would probably not have been possible to produce healthy dogs year after year, which convince with their fantastic character, reliability and outstanding performance.
This is also the reason why the Hanoverian bloodhound is not only convincing in hunting, but also as a family and companion dog. He is a reliable companion in everyday life. He can use his skills not only in hunting. Even after traffic accidents with game, he is able to find the injured animal only on the basis of the sweat track.
Many interested parties will be pleased to know that not only hunters will be able to get hold of one of the 30 to 40 puppies that are born every year under the umbrella of the VDH. However, membership in the Hirschmann Association is required, as well as passing the welding dog handler’s test.
The colours of the Hanoverian Welding Dog
The Hanoverian Sweat Dog has a short coat, which makes it very easy for the owner to integrate grooming into everyday life. Strictly speaking, grooming is only very rarely necessary. Most of the time it is quite sufficient to run a hand over the dog’s coat and the little bit of dirt that is in the coat falls to the ground.
The colours of the Hanoverian Sweat Dog range between light and dark deer red. Often the dogs are brindle, which emphasises their stately appearance even more.
What are the requirements of the Hanoverian Welding Dog?
The Hanoverian bloodhound is a strong dog with a very well developed endurance. Its performance far exceeds that of other dog breeds. You can already see it coming: If you want to be happy with this dog, you must of necessity be an outdoorsman.
Long walks through the meadows and forests, jogging or cycling together with the dog, mantrailing and and and – there are so many ways in which this dog can be challenged physically and of course mentally. This requires a certain physical and mental fitness from the owner.
When this dog is busy, he is happy with himself and the environment and can spend his free time cuddling with his favourite people and relaxing on the couch. We all know what kind of bad habits unused dogs can bring to light.
This dog is, of course, ace at hunting. But one should consider, if not dedicated to hunting, joining a dog rescue team with this dog. You could combine something useful with something necessary. And the dog would be fully in his element.
In terms of condition, it is quite possible for the Hanoverian Welding Dog to bring his owner to the edge of his potential.
In terms of training, this dog needs a loving but assertive hand. Of course, especially with regard to the welding dog handler test, it is important that a certain understanding of dogs is already present.
It is recommended that a dog trainer is chosen who understands the needs of hunting dogs. If the owner still lacks knowledge, he is the number one contact person who can best help both dog and master.
Tracking is the main task of the Hanoverian bloodhound. While he himself will probably be retrievable at any time of the day or night, the owner must be aware that this is also required of him.
For as soon as it is known that one owns and has trained this dog, one will be called as soon as a search is required. There is no way around it. For the owner, this means that the appropriate clothing must be available for every season, in case the search takes a little longer.
The Hanoverian bloodhound and his health
This dog breed is bursting with health. Fortunately, there are no known hereditary diseases.
Advantages and disadvantages of the Hanoverian bloodhound
The advantages of this dog are obvious: It is, as long as it does not have a scent in its nose, the calmest and most balanced dog imaginable. It is even said that he radiates pure deceleration. Something that we humans can use very well.
Once he has picked up a scent, he will follow it loudly barking until it ends. Because of the barking, you can’t miss him, even if he gets out of sight.
Some people might consider it a disadvantage that this dog absolutely expects a garden at his house. It would be best for him if the house and garden were also on the edge of a forest. Then he would have his exercise area right outside the door.
This dog is absolutely sociable in everyday life. You can literally take him everywhere. On the trail, however, it is absolutely necessary that dog and owner are perfectly attuned to each other, because the owner must be able to steer him in every second of the pursuit. Nothing can go wrong!
The perfect person for a Hanoverian Welding Dog
Optimally, the owner of this wonderful dog is a hunter or forester who can take him out into the hunting grounds every day. But this is not a prerequisite, as long as one has only dealt with the nature of the animal and aligns the joint activities accordingly.
Despite a well-founded training of the dog, it is important to be aware that this dog is used to acting independently when the situation requires it.
The perfect person for the Hanoverian Welding Dog owns not only a family with several family members but also a garden in the countryside or, even better, by or in the forest. When you leave the property together, the dog is immediately in his element – the wild.
Buying a puppy of the Hanoverian Welding Dog
Do yourself and the dog a big favour and make sure you choose a reputable breeder. How do you find one? Well, every breeder is very proud of their breeding, of the origin of their breeding animals. Therefore, it is also very important to them that the future dog owner learns a lot about the animals, their characteristics and, of course, the pedigree. Because the new dog owners should also know exactly about their new family member.
At the same time, they also keep a close eye on the prospective owner. Many people are interested in dogs, but do not know exactly what they are getting into. This misunderstanding or lack of knowledge can definitely be dispelled by the breeder. Most breeders take a lot of time for the initial interview with the prospective buyer. This is usually followed by the first visit to the puppies.
But of course, further visits can follow if an agreement is reached. In this way, the new family can already establish the first bonds with the puppy. When the final takeover comes, the young dog is already familiar with “its new” people. The transition will then be much easier.
The reputable breeder strives to provide the new puppy owner with as much information as possible. Whether it’s questions about the initial puppy food, possible vaccinations or travel regulations – the breeder will be happy to answer them as far as he can. After all, he is still interested in the welfare of his puppies after they have been handed over.
Protection contract is often a big keyword. If you are seriously interested in an animal and have no bad intentions, you will have no problems with this contract. By the way, the protection contract is a very good indication that this breeder is serious!
First equipment for the Hanoverian Shit Dog
- Dog collar
- Dog harness
- Dog leash, in addition possibly a drag line
- Water and food bowl, if possible easy to clean
- Dog bed / blanket for the resting place
- Comb / lice comb
- Dog food
- Possibly toys
- Possibly treats
Dog food for the Hanoverian sweat dog
Conclusion
If you are looking for a dog that radiates calm and can act as the resting centre of the family, you will be absolutely satisfied with this dog. In his presence you can somehow not get hectic at all. Certainly, he is a hunting dog whose main task is clearly defined – tracking. But you can also keep him very busy in other ways. Both, dog and owner, will have a lot of fun with dog sports like mantrailing or simply long walks.
This dog is not only a suitable companion for hunters. Anyone who wants to get involved with the special features of the Hanoverian Welding Dog will know that he has the best partner of his life at his side.
FAQ
How much does a Hanoverian bloodhound cost?
As usual, we would like to point out that puppies should only be bought from reputable breeders. These offer Hanoverian Welding Dogs for a price starting at 850 pounds. All sellers who charge a lower price for their animals could belong to the cheap breeders who make money through the mass of their puppies. Please pay attention to this when buying.
Where does the Hanoverian bloodhound come from?
The name says it all: The home of the Hanoverian bloodhound is in Germany. In the meantime, however, he has become popular with hunters all over the world and has conquered many countries.
How old does the Hanoverian Welding Dog live?
A life expectancy of 12 years can be expected.
What is the size and weight of the Hanoverian Welding Dog?
According to the FCI standard, the male of this breed should be considerably larger and heavier than the female. Thus, a size of 50 – 55 centimetres height at withers with a weight of 30 kilograms to 40 kilograms is desired. The bitch is clearly smaller. She should have a height of 48 to 53 centimetres and a weight of 25 to 35 kilograms.
With these dimensions, the Hanoverian Welding Dog belongs to the medium-sized dog breeds. Due to its breed-specific task, the welding work, the legs are relatively short for such a large dog, but all the stronger for it. He needs this strength and endurance for his work. In order to be as close as possible to the track, nature has improved the length of the legs – but downwards.
How many puppies does the Hanoverian bloodhound have?
The average litter produces between 4 and 8 puppies.
Is the Hanoverian bloodhound a hunting dog?
The Hanoverian bloodhound has been classified as a hunting dog by the FCI. Its special ability is to track game, especially after injuries. Not only is the Hanoverian bloodhound a master at picking up and following a scent. He also has a fantastic condition. For this, his legs are equipped with real muscle packs. Welding work makes for a nose seemingly glued to the ground. The dog’s chest is broad and deep set. This helps him to have sufficient volume to pick up the scent and follow it.
Is the Hanoverian bloodhound a family dog?
Certainly, hunting work is his main job with people. No question about it. But this dog is an asset to any family. The prerequisite for this, however, is that he is actually given a task or is active with his master / mistress in one of the dog sports and can work out in the process. Solid socialisation and basic training go without saying. As much as this dog relaxes in the midst of his family after work is done, he should not be left unsupervised with small children. Surely they too must first learn the correct way to handle the dog. A burden that should not be placed on him.
Can the Hanoverian Welding Dog be kept in a (city) flat?
Many dog owners are of the opinion that it is sufficient for their dog to go for long walks several times a day or to visit the dog sports field. It is true that the animal can work itself out to some extent during these activities. However, this dog also loves to spend its “free” time in the garden on its own. Staying in a city flat, where it is quite far to the next big dog sports ground or dog run anyway, does not do justice to the Hanoverian Welding Dog. He simply needs the door to open and to be able to sniff into the garden. Anything else would be unfair.
