Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound
Male: 20-30 kg, Female: 17-25 kg
Male: 47-52 cm, Female: 44-48 cm
12-14 years
Germany (Bavaria)
About the Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound
The Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound is a robust and agile tracker, meticulously developed in the late 19th century to navigate the treacherous slopes of the Bavarian Alps. Created by crossing the heavier Hanoverian Scent Hound with lighter mountain hounds, this breed was refined to produce a dog capable of following a 'cold' scent trail over miles of jagged terrain. They are distinguished by their slightly elongated body and powerful, ground-covering movement, which reflects their history as endurance-based working dogs. While they are remarkably quiet and calm within the home, they are not typical sedentary pets. They form an intense bond with a single person or family and require an owner who understands the specific needs of a working hound. Their intelligence and scent-tracking drive mean they are most content when given a 'job' to do, making them excellent companions for active outdoor enthusiasts or professional handlers.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound is judged on its functional athletic structure, which must convey a sense of tireless endurance. The breed standard calls for a body that is slightly longer than tall, featuring a deep chest and a strong, level topline that remains stable on the move. Their gait is notably light and effortless, showing neither heaviness nor frailty.
Bred For
Specialised tracking of wounded big game (scent work) in steep mountain terrain.
Temperament
Calm, balanced, and devoted to their owners, yet courageous, focused, and persistent when working. They are typically reserved with strangers but have a sensitive and steady disposition.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
, , , , and otitis externa (ear infections). As a deep-chested breed, they are also more likely to be predisposed to ().
Exercise Needs
High. Requires significant daily physical activity (60-90 minutes) combined with mental stimulation, specifically scent-based activities or tracking exercises to satisfy their innate instincts.
Grooming Needs
Low. The short coat requires only weekly brushing with a rubber mitt or firm bristle brush. Regular ear cleaning is essential due to the pendant shape of the ears.
Living Suitability
Not suited for apartments. They thrive in homes with large, secure yards or acreage. They are best suited to rural or semi-rural environments where they have access to varied terrain and scent trails.
Good with Kids
Generally good with children within their own family, provided they are treated with respect. Due to their sensitive nature, they are often better suited to households with older children.
Good with Other Pets
Usually tolerant of other dogs if socialised early. However, they possess a high prey drive and may be prone to chasing smaller household pets like cats or rabbits unless raised with them.
Trainability
Highly intelligent but possesses a characteristic hound independence. They require a patient handler who uses positive reinforcement; they do not respond well to harsh corrections due to their sensitive temperament.
Coat & Colours
Short, thick, close-fitting, and moderately harsh; it is relatively weather-resistant with little gloss.. Deep red, deer red, reddish-brown, tan, or biscuit-coloured, often with a dark mask on the muzzle and ears. The tail is often darker.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
The Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound is more likely to experience ear infections because their long, floppy ears trap moisture; owners must commit to a routine of regular ear inspections and cleaning. Being a deep-chested breed, they are more predisposed to Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (bloat)—it is recommended to feed smaller, frequent meals and avoid vigorous exercise immediately after eating. Their incredible nose is a quirk to consider; they can become intensely focused on a scent and may ignore commands once on a trail, necessitating a secure yard and a reliable recall. They are also prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, so maintaining a lean weight via a fresh diet is vital for joint health. Some individuals may develop separation anxiety if they are not integrated closely into the family's daily life, as they are deeply loyal and value proximity to their handlers. These points are breed predispositions, not certainties, and with proper management, these hounds are remarkably resilient and dedicated companions.
Feeding Guide for Your Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound
Healthy Weight
17-30 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
500-750 grams
A typical adult Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound weighing 25 kg should consume approximately 500g to 750g of fresh food per day, divided into two meals. This amount should be adjusted based on the dog's activity level and metabolic rate.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-protein, nutrient-dense diet is best to support their high energy levels and lean muscle mass. Fresh and raw diets are highly suitable to maintain metabolic health and joint integrity.
An ideal raw diet for a Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound focuses on lean, high-quality proteins such as Majestik's Kangaroo or Beef to support their athletic build. The ratio should consist of roughly 70% muscle meat, 10% edible bone (such as chicken necks or lamb ribs), 10% organ meat (liver, kidney, or heart), and 10% seasonal vegetables. Given their predisposition to joint issues, the inclusion of Omega-3 fatty acids from fish or green-lipped mussel powder is highly recommended. Always feed from a slowed feeder or split portions to mitigate bloat risk.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound? Dog Health AI
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Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
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Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
5-8 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.