The Jagdterrier is a compact, well-proportioned, and muscular terrier with a dense, harsh coat.

Typically 13-16 inches tall at the shoulder.

Generally 17-22 pounds.

Dense, harsh, and wiry; can be smooth or rough.

Predominantly black and tan, but can also be dark brown or grayish-black with tan markings.

Wedge-shaped with a strong jaw.

Usually docked (where permitted), carried high.

Small, V-shaped, and carried close to the head.

The Jagdterrier is known for its fearless, energetic, and extremely determined personality, reflecting its strong hunting instincts.

Possesses unwavering determination, especially when working.

Fearless and bold, willing to take on prey much larger than themselves.

Highly intelligent but can be independent and strong-willed.

Forms strong bonds with their family, but may be reserved with strangers.

Exhibits a very strong instinct to chase and hunt.

Requires a significant amount of physical and mental stimulation.

The Jagdterrier is best suited for experienced dog owners who have an active lifestyle and can provide the necessary training, socialization, and outlets for their energy.

Generally healthy and long-lived.

Prone to digging and escaping if not properly contained.

The ideal owner for a Jagdterrier is an experienced, active individual or family who understands terrier traits and can provide a consistent, stimulating environment, ideally with opportunities for the dog to engage in hunting or similar activities.

Jagdterriers have relatively low grooming needs, require a balanced diet, and thrive in environments where they can expend their energy.

Minimal grooming required; occasional brushing to remove loose hair and dirt. Hand-stripping may be needed for show dogs.

Bathe only when necessary to avoid stripping the coat of its natural oils.

High-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Monitor food intake to prevent overfeeding.

Adaptable to various living situations, provided their exercise needs are met. A secure yard is essential.

Trim nails regularly to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.

Training a Jagdterrier requires experienced handling due to their independent nature, and they need extensive daily exercise to manage their high energy levels.

Jagdterriers are intelligent but their independent and tenacious nature can make training challenging. Early socialization and consistent, firm, and positive reinforcement-based training are crucial. They respond best to experienced owners who understand terrier temperament. Short, engaging training sessions are most effective.

Jagdterriers have very high exercise needs. They require at least 1-2 hours of vigorous activity daily, including long walks, runs, and interactive play. Activities that engage their hunting instincts, like scent work or earthdog trials, are highly beneficial. A bored Jagdterrier can become destructive.

Expose them to various people, dogs, and environments from a young age to prevent aggression.

Establish yourself as the clear leader to manage their strong-willed nature.

Provide puzzle toys and games to keep their minds engaged.

Ensure a secure yard, as their high prey drive can lead them to escape.

Essential due to their strong hunting instincts; they should be kept on a leash in unconfined areas.

Jagdterriers are generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain genetic conditions.

A painful condition where the lens of the eye becomes displaced, potentially leading to blindness.

A condition where the kneecap dislocates, causing lameness.

Underactive thyroid, can cause weight gain, lethargy, and skin issues.

The Jagdterrier breed originated in Germany after World War I. A group of hunters, led by Walter Zangenberg, Lutz Heck (director of the Berlin Zoo), and Herbert Lackner, aimed to create an ideal German hunting terrier. They selectively bred Fox Terriers, Welsh Terriers, and other terriers, focusing on utility and hunting prowess rather than appearance. The breed's development involved rigorous selection, emphasizing traits like tenacity, courage, water affinity, and a strong hunting instinct. The Deutscher Jagdterrier Club was established in 1926. Although not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Jagdterrier is recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) and the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI).

Jagdterriers can be good with older, respectful children who understand how to interact with dogs. However, due to their high prey drive and energy, they are not recommended for homes with very young children.

Jagdterriers have a very strong prey drive and are generally not recommended for homes with other small pets like cats, rabbits, or rodents. They may get along with other dogs if properly socialized from a young age, but supervision is always recommended.

Jagdterriers need a significant amount of exercise, at least 1-2 hours of vigorous activity daily. This can include long walks, runs, hikes, and interactive play.

Jagdterriers can be vocal, especially when alerting to perceived threats or when bored. Proper training and sufficient mental stimulation can help manage barking.

Jagdterriers are intelligent but can be independent and strong-willed, making training challenging for inexperienced owners. Consistent, firm, positive reinforcement-based training is essential.

No, Jagdterriers are not hypoallergenic. They have a dense, wiry coat that sheds moderately.

The average lifespan of a Jagdterrier is 10-12 years, although some can live longer with proper care.

Jagdterriers are relatively rare, so finding one through breed-specific rescues may be challenging. Contacting the Deutscher Jagdterrier Club or local hunting dog organizations may be helpful.

Yes, Jagdterriers have a strong instinct to dig, which is part of their hunting heritage. Providing a designated digging area or engaging them in other activities can help redirect this behavior.

Jagdterriers can adapt to apartment living if their high exercise needs are consistently met. However, they are generally better suited to homes with secure yards where they can run and play.