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Pronounced as "Yahk" terrier and also known as the German hunting dog, the jagdterrier is a compact, highly sociable, and trainable terrier. Bred to hunt and flush out rabbits, raccoons, foxes, and other wild animals, this German breed may not be prevalent in the states, but they have a following with those that value their prey drive.

Read more to find out if this breed is right for your lifestyle.

Characteristics of the Jagdterrier

History of the Jagdterrier

Bred from strategic crosses with black and tan fox terriers, Welsh terriers, and Old English wirehaired terriers, the jagdterrier was eventually developed in Germany for hunting. In 1926, the German Hunter Terrier Club was formed and the group focused on specific desirable traits and features that they wanted from this breed. Affectionate kissers, water-loving, social, trainable, and courageous are traits valued in this sturdy breed.

By the 1950s, the breed was brought to the US and the Jagdterrier Club of America was formed. This club unfortunately didn't last long as the interest in the breed didn't grow as the members had hoped. Jagdterriers are still found in the US among avid hunters who appreciate the breed's personality and size.

Jagdterrier Care

Compared to some breeds, jagdterriers may seem lower maintenance, but they still require a good amount of exercise and training along with some routine grooming.

Exercise

Jagdterriers were bred to hunt and chase prey. Their size is designed to go underground into burrows and they are very smart. Because of these qualities, exercise for both their bodies and minds is of the utmost importance. If hunting is not an activity a jagdterrier's owner partakes in, agility, flyball, scent work, and other events that allow the breed to exercise their skills are necessary. This breed is not an ideal fit for a family that isn't active.

Grooming

Wirey or smooth but always short, the fur of a jagdterrier is easy to care for. This breed does not shed much and does not need haircuts but routine ear cleaning, brushing, baths, and nail trims are necessary. Daily teeth brushing should also be done to help prevent dental disease.

Training

Jagdterriers are very affectionate, social, and they love to please their owners. They are very intelligent and are easily trainable, especially if their prey drive is utilized in the training process. Consistent positive reinforcement training will help these dogs be happy, balanced members of your family.

Common Health Problems

Health problems are not common in jagdterriers, especially if you purchase a dog from a reputable breeder, but that doesn't mean they are completely exempt from all issues. Some health issues that may occur in jagdterriers include:

• Primary lens luxation
• Luxating patellas
• Periodontal disease
• Ear infections
• Parasites
  

Yearly check-ups with your veterinarian can help keep your terrier healthy and catch any underlying issues before they become a major problem.

Diet and Nutrition

Jagdterriers should eat a high-quality, nutritionally complete diet formulated for dogs by veterinary nutritionists. The major dog food brands will usually meet these criteria, but foods designed for high-activity dogs may be needed to provide appropriate protein and caloric content. If you aren't sure what your jagdterrier should be eating, ask your veterinarian for recommendations and guidance on how much to feed as well.

Where to Adopt or Buy a Jagdterrier

Because jagdterriers are not a very popular breed in the United States, they aren't commonly found in rescues or shelters. However, you may be able to find a reputable jagdterrier breeder in the states. The American Kennel Club (AKC) Marketplace is one place to look for breeders, otherwise attending a dog show to find breeders that specialize in this hunting breed is a great way to see the parents of a potential puppy. Be sure to do thorough research on breeders before purchasing a puppy to avoid backyard breeders.

Jagdterrier Overview