Find the Right Breed of Dog for You

Dive into over 300 breed in our all inclusive online resource

German Hunting Terrier (Deutscher Jagdterrier)

Small Breed

The German Hunting Terrier is a very intelligent breed of dog with a great determination to work. They are a friendly, energetic breed, although when at rest they are calm and appear noble.

Read more

Breed standards

Country of origin

Germany

Weight

Males 20-22 lbs/9-10 kgs; Females 17-19 lbs/7.5-8.5 kgs (standards may vary)

Height

33-40 cm/13 1/4-16 inches (standards may vary)

Coat

Plain, dense, hard and rough hair, or coarse and smooth hair

Markings

Black, dark brown, greyish-black. Some fawn markings on the eyebrows, muzzle, chest, legs and base of the tail can be found. A light or dark mask and small white markings on the chest and toes can be found.

Lifespan

13-15 years

For many, this small breed is the ultimate hunter; its courage and pluck have helped to make the breed successful in the working environment.

Temperament

The German Hunting Terrier is a friendly dog only to its owners but an aggressive dog in the hunt. Their tireless nature is a great asset in the hunt which is what they were designed for. They do not do well as house pets when left alone as they can become restless if not allowed to do what they love doing; hunting and flushing. They require firm training to ensure their vigilant guard instinct in kept under control.

  • Poor
    Children
    Good
  • Very
    Combativeness
    Not very
  • Very
    Dominance
    Not very
  • Not very
    Friendliness
    Good
  • Not very
    Independence
    Very
  • Loud
    Noise
    Quiet
  • Not very
    Trainability
    Very

Good to know

The German Hunting Terrier is an energetic, courageous small breed, most suited to its job as a hunter. They are not suitable as a family pet.

Positive Plus Icon
  • An excellent hunter and working dog
  • A good hunting companion
  • Happy in most climates
Negative Minus Icon
  • Require sufficient daily exercise
  • Best with a yard
  • Not good if left alone for long period of time
  • Not suited to being a house pet