Temperament: Friendly, Versatile, Determined
- Height: 18-21 inches
- Weight: 40-55 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
- Group: Foundation Stock Service
The Deutscher Wachtelhund has a scenting and blood tracking ability comparable to a Bloodhound and can track 40-hour-old wounded game. On a fresh game trail, it must vocalize to inform hunters of its location. They are a versatile breed, virtually unknown to the German non-hunting public, and is only owned by hunters, gamekeepers and professional hunters in Germany.
About the Deutscher Wachtelhund
The Deutscher Wachtelhund is a medium-sized, longhaired, very muscular gun dog with a noble head and strong bone. Their keen hunting desire and ability make it an ideal dog for hunters and because of their innate love of water, they are often used to hunt waterfowl. The Deutscher Wachtelhund’s name, German quail dog, relates to its ability as an upland bird flusher and is also known as the German Spaniel.
NUTRITION You are going to want to feed your Deutscher Wachtelhund a formula that will cater to his unique digestive needs throughout the various phases of his life. Many dog food companies have breed-specific formulas for small, medium, large and extra-large breeds. The German Spaniel is a medium-sized breed. What you feed your dog is an individual choice, but working with your veterinarian and/or breeder will be the best way to determine frequency of meals as a puppy and the best adult diet to increase his longevity. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.
GROOMING The German Spaniel’s coat is short and fine on the head and long on the body, where it is strong, thick, wavy or curly, with enough undercoat to provide protection. It is also well feathered. Beyond regular weekly grooming, the occasional bath will keep your dog clean and looking their best. Grooming can be a wonderful bonding experience for you and your pet. Their strong, fast-growing nails should be trimmed regularly with a nail clipper or grinder to avoid overgrowth, splitting and cracking. Their ears should be checked regularly to avoid a buildup of wax and debris which can result in an infection. Teeth should be brushed regularly.
EXERCISE Options for exercise include play time in the backyard, preferably fenced, or taken for walks several times a day. Exercise can also come in the form of indoor activities, like hide-and-seek, chasing a ball rolled along the floor, or teaching them new tricks. Certain outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, retrieving balls or flying discs can provide a good outlet for expending energy. Training for dog sports like agility, obedience and rally can also be a great way to give your dog exercise. The German Spaniel is a hunting breed and, therefore, does best with at least a moderate amount of space to run, play, and sniff.
HEALTH In general, the Wachtelhund is a healthy dog with few genetic problems. Working with a responsible breeder, prospective owners can gain the education they need to learn about specific health concerns within the breed.