The Hanoverian Scenthound, Hanover Hound, or Hannoverscher Schweißhund in German where the breed originates, is an excellent scent hound originally bred in the 1800s. These dogs were developed from the scent dogs used by people in the Middle Ages. They are excellent Liam Hounds, which means they can track “cold scent”. In other words, they don’t need blood to track an animal successfully. Today, the breed is very rare. However, breed enthusiasts and professional breeders in Germany still keep the breed away from extinction.
1. Size
The Hanoverian Hound is a medium-sized dog. Both male and female dogs can be from 19 to 21 inches tall (48 to 53) and can weigh from 79 to 99 pounds (35 to 45 kg). The males are slightly bigger than the females.
This is a sturdy-looking dog with typical hound features. They have droopy and broad ears, smart and soulful eyes, wrinkled foreheads, and well-developed jaws. Their legs are not supposed to be too long because they need to be low to the ground to track scent. Too short legs are also not desirable, for they can slow down the dog during the pursuit of the game.
2. Color
There are only two coat colors:
- Brindle
- Red
They can have a black mask. Small patches of white color on the chest are also possible. The red color varies from deep red to light red.
3. Social Traits
The Hanoverian Scenthound is a calm, well-tempered, and friendly dog. They go well with other dogs. After all, they were bred to work in a pack of scent hounds, following the scent trail of an animal. They do need to be properly socialized, just like any other dog breed.
While they are friendly and playful, the Hanoverian Scenthounds are not suited for very young children. They need sturdier playmates to avoid any accidental injuries. They will also need proper and lifetime socialization with other small animals. This is because they have a strong prey drive which can never be turned off. And it shouldn’t be. They were bred to hunt and that’s what they do best. Of course, if they are brought up with cats, they’ll be friendly with cats. But, a neighbor’s cat, a squirrel, or woodland creatures are a problem. This is why it is not recommended to walk them off-leash in unfenced areas.
Good with children: yes, older children
Good with dogs: yes
Good with other animals: needs socialization
4. Trainability
If you plan on using a Hanoverian Scenthound for what the breed was originally developed for – hunting, then you won’t have problems training him. However, if you plan on having this dog simply as a family dog, then you will need more patience when it comes to recall and off-leash walking.
This is because it’s in their nature to wander off and follow the scent. They have to do it, it is in their DNA. You have to understand that and never let them off-leash unless it is absolutely safe to do that.
On the other hand, other obedience training will come easy. They will quickly learn where to pee, not to eat food off the table, and so on. But, all dogs are unique, and some will need more time to get it all right. Patience and consistency are the key.
Trainability: 4 out of 5 (5 being very trainable)
Struggle with: Recall
5. Activity Needs
The Hanover dog is a highly energetic dog. They will need more than 2 hours of daily activities. This can be divided into walks in the morning and in the evening, combined with playtime at home or in the garden. Whatever you choose, be prepared to be active with your dog. This is not a Greyhound that will run for half an hour and spend the rest of the day lounging on the sofa. The Hanoverian Scenthound needs to use his nose and to be active.
They are best suited for country living and not the city. If you do live in the city, then hikes, walks, and other mini-adventures with your dog are a must. It is even better if you have older children that can play with the dog.
Activity needs: More than 2 hours (walks, outdoor games, indoor games, hikes, jogging, etc.)
6. Feeding
Every dog is unique, and these are general rules according to the usual vet recommendations, owner experiences, and dog food brand recommendations. An adult Hanoverian Scenthound needs around 4 cups of kibble a day. It is best to divide this amount into two meals – 2 cups in the morning and 2 cups in the evening.
Of course, some dogs need less, maybe 3 cups of kibble a day. Others might need more, 5 or even 6 cups of kibble daily. It all depends on their activity levels. If your dog works all day long, goes on a hike with you, jogging, and so on, then they need more food. If you happen to have a laid-back Hanover dog (although chances are slim), then they need less than 4 cups.
The best option is to consult a vet. You can also find answers or help from the breeder. But, a vet recommendation after they have examined your dog is the best option in either case.
7. Grooming
The Hanoverian Scenthound has a short and smooth coat type. They shed quite a lot, but they don’t require special dog brushes or grooming techniques. The best option is either a hound glove or a bristle brush. They need to be brushed a couple of times a week to help with the shedding.
Apart from brushing, they need an occasional bath and regular nail trimming. Don’t forget to check and clean their ears. Hanover dogs have long ears that can get infected if left wet or moist too long. Also, they are an easy spot for foreign objects to get stuck, especially during the spring and summer seasons when there are a lot of sticky grass seeds.
8. Possible Problems
The Hanoverian Scenthound is a healthy dog breed. They can also get sick, like any other living beings, but responsible breeding programs have led to healthy breeding lines. Some health issues to pay attention to are:
Final Thoughts
The Hanoverian Scenthound is a rare dog outside Germany. But it’s still around and we are happy about it. These dogs come from a long line of scenthounds and their working abilities are incredible. Because of that, they need a family or an owner that is equally active. You cannot leave a Hanover dog with nothing to do all day long. They need their daily dose of mental and physical stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Don’t forget that bored dogs easily turn their boredom into misbehavior or even, in extreme cases, aggression.
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