The Hanover Hound: temperament, price, health, and breeders

The Hanoverian Scenthound breed as it is known today was already bred in the 17th century in the Hanover region, in northern Germany. It descends from the ancient German scenthounds, at the origin of several Germanic hunting dogs. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale recognizes the breed under number 213 since 1959.

Of medium to large size, the Hanoverian Scenthound is powerful, well proportioned and built for endurance. Its body, longer than it is tall at the withers, has a long and strong neck, a solid back, a broad slightly arched loin, a ample croup and a deep chest. Its head with a broad skull has a marked stop, a black nose with open nostrils, a strong muzzle and powerful jaws. Its medium ears, broad and set high, hang without twisting. Its dark brown eyes express seriousness. Its long tail, set high, is slightly curved. Its short, thick and harsh coat is light red to dark red, sometimes brindled, with or without mask.

Loyal and very attached to its owner, the Hanoverian Scenthound has a balanced, calm and confident temperament. It is more reserved towards strangers. A specialist in blood tracking and following scent trails, it stands out for its concentration, endurance and a very strong hunting instinct.

On a daily basis, this working dog needs long walks and frequent outings in natural surroundings to express its instincts and maintain its physical and psychological balance. Its calm temperament allows it to adapt to different living environments, but a house with a large fenced garden suits it better than an apartment. It also enjoys playful and sporting activities.

The Hanoverian Scenthound can be somewhat stubborn, but its intelligence and learning abilities make it possible to obtain good cooperation. Its training must be firm, consistent and free of any brutality. Socialization and recall training require particular attention, given its tracking instinct.

The purchase price varies depending on the breeder, the bloodline and the dog's characteristics. The overall annual maintenance cost is in a range of 600 to 800 euros.

The Hanoverian Scenthound is renowned for its robust health, its resilience and its endurance. Regular veterinary monitoring and appropriate care remain necessary to preserve this robustness.

Its diet must be of quality and adapted to its age, its size and its level of physical activity. Needs increase during periods of hunting or sustained work.

The Hanoverian Scenthound is also called the Hanoverian Bloodhound or Hannoverscher Schweisshund. It belongs to FCI group 6, bears standard number 213 and has been recognized by the FCI since 1959. A litter generally consists of 4 to 6 puppies.