Let's talk Hanoverian Scent Hounds
Dating back to the early 19th century in Germany, Hanoverian Scent Hounds were originally developed for their hunting and tracking dog abilities, namely their exceptional sense of smell. However, nowadays, they enjoy nothing more than establishing deep bonds with family members, adults and children alike, once trained. As long as the Hanoverian Scent Hound breed is able to sufficiently output their energy outside during the day, their easy-going, fiercely loyal and affectionate nature is a joy to be around.
Official name: Hanoverian Scent Hound
Other names: Hanoverian Scent Hound, Hannoverscher Schweisshund
Origins: Germany
| Drooling tendencies |  |
Warm weather? |  |
| Shedding level | |
Suited to apartment living? | |
| Physical activity needs | moderate | Kid-friendly? |
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| Compatibility with other pets |  |
Can stay alone? | |
We advise against leaving pets alone for long stretches. Companionship can prevent emotional distress and destructive behaviour. Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations.
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51 - 56 cm
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30 - 40 kg
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48 - 53 cm
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25 - 35 kg
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| Baby age | Birth to 2 months |
| Puppy age | 2 to 15 months |
| Adult age | 15 months to 5 years |
| Mature age | 5 to 8 years |
| Senior age | From 8 years |
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Get to know the Hanoverian Scent Hound
All you need to know about the breed
Although the Hanoverian Scent Hound has a long list of highly positive superlatives going for them – doting, affectionate, extremely loyal– they can sometimes be extra selective with who is allowed into their inner circle of trusted humans. The Hanoverian Scent Hound breed rarely exhibits aggressive behavior towards strangers, but they can be wary, or even shy, towards unfamiliar faces. However, once they become acquainted with someone new, the Hanoverian Scent Hound breed is quick to become a figurative shadow, always gluing themselves next to you.
At their core, Hanoverian Scent Hounds are working dogs, meaning they need to exhaust their naturally high energy stores, preferably in a safe and large open space such as a park or forested area. They thrive in all sorts of outdoor terrains, especially mountains, making them excellent hiking companions for nature enthusiasts.
While Hanoverian Scent Hounds assimilate gracefully into most family environments, their prey tendencies make it difficult to introduce them to any smaller household pets, even cats. Once trained however, the Hanoverian Scent Hound breed gets on exceptionally well with children due to their similar playful and lively energy levels. This also applies to other dogs, given the Hanoverian Scent Hound breed’s preference to live in packs, resulting in a warm, openness toward other canine family members.
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2 facts about Hanoverian Scent Hounds
1. A very rare breed
Despite their doting personality and radiant looks, the Hanoverian Scent Hound breed is a considerably rare breed, even in their native Germany. As a result of their declining population, a breed club called ‘Verein Hirschmann e.V.’ was created in 1894 to help preserve their existence. So far, so good, as the breed is still in our midst!
2. Not your usual ‘hound dog look’
Certain hound dog features have become distinctive markers of this category of breed, with the classic droopy face and long, floppy ears. The Hanoverian Scent Hound breed is no different; however, they are known to have considerably tighter skin around their hearty, muscular bodies–making their beautiful amber, red coating even more eye-catching and visibly striking.
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History of the breed
The Hanoverian Scent Hound’s origins date back to the 17th century in Germany and is considered one of Germany’s first ‘schweisshund’ or bloodhounds. This breed categorisation implies that Hanoverian Scent Hounds were originally developed for the purpose of following a blood trail from a wounded animal. Yet, while their key working objective has undoubtedly changed over time, the Hanoverian Scent Hound breed still possesses an undeniable gift in being able to track and trace across vast fields and forested lands.
Following the trajectory of other rare breeds, the Hanoverian Scent Hound breed had reached their peak in popularity in the early 20th century, leading them into the danger zone of possible extinction. Fortunately, enthusiasts of Hanoverian Scent Hounds united and together, committed to preserving the affable breed. To this day, Hanoverian Scent Hounds are still considered scarce, but are no longer veering towards extinction.
In 1996, the United Kennel Club recognised the Hanoverian Scent Hound breed and in 2017 the American Kennel Club approved the Hanoverian Scent Hound to be included into its Foundation Stock Service, in both cases under the name of Hanoverian Scenthound.
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From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Hanoverian Scent Hounds
1. Head
Large head, with low-set, drooping ears.
2. Body
Well-muscled, deep chest with strong legs.
3. Coat
Short, brown coat, with red undertones.
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Things to look out for
From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Hanoverian Scent Hound
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Caring for your Hanoverian Scent Hound
Grooming, training and exercise tips
The Hanoverian Scent Hound breed’s grooming requirements are quite low given their short, smooth coat, which only needs a rare brushing. However, teeth should be cleaned daily and nails clipped as needed. It should be noted that as outdoor dogs, they often wear down their nails during exercise. Those quintessential hound dog ears need to be checked frequently for any signs of dirt or wax build-up to avoid the risk of ear infection. In order to enjoy the Hanoverian Scent Hound’s naturally calm temperament, they must be able to sufficiently release any pent up energy; they do need regular exercise and a decent amount of it. It is important to note that if they are let off leash, it should be done in a safely enclosed space - if they detect an interesting scent, they will instinctively run after it. The Hanoverian Scent Hound has excellent stamina and focused working abilities, so as long as you are patient and consistent with training early on, they should be quick to follow commands. Take any treats used as rewards out of daily rations to help keep your dog trim.
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All about Hanoverian Scent Hounds
Yes, indeed! Hanoverian Scent Hounds make exceptional family pets. They’re quite affectionate toward children of all ages, once trained. However, always keep a close watch over your children with your Hanoverian Scent Hound, as with any dog, especially if they’re too young to properly interact with animals. Older families or those with more sedentary lifestyles might enjoy a less energetic breed!
If you are committed to taking them for long distance walks or runs each day, then potentially yes. However, the Hanoverian Scent Hound breed thrives in a more rural, open environment, so that they can enjoy more space to properly expend their high energy load.
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Sources
1 - Veterinary Centers of America https://vcahospitals.com/
2 - Royal Canin Dog Encyclopaedia. Ed 2010 and 2020
3 - Banfield Pet Hospital https://www.banfield.com/
4 - Royal Canin BHN Product Book
5 - American Kennel Club https://www.akc.org/