Let's talk Kromfohrländers
Not too big, not too small, the little-known Kromfohrländer is just right in so many ways. For those who are after a lively yet manageable and compact dog, the breed is a great match. They’re active and always up for a long walk in the great outdoors but content to relax by the side of loved ones, to whom they stay steadfast. Even though they come from Terrier stock, the 21st century Kromfohrländer is a true companion and a chill, perceptive breed.
Official name: Kromfohrländer
Origins: Germany
| Drooling tendencies: |  |
Warm weather? |  |
| Shedding level: |  |
Suited to apartment living? | |
| Energy level (high, low, medium) *: | Moderate | Family pet? * |
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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.
Every pet is different, even within a breed; this snapshot of this breed’s specifics should be taken as an indication.
For a happy, healthy and well-behaved pet, we recommend educating and socialising your pet as well as covering their basic welfare, social and behavioural needs.
Pets should never be left unsupervised with a child.
All domestic pets are sociable and prefer company. However, they can be taught to cope with solitude from an early age. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or trainer to help you do this.
Male
38 - 46 cm
Height
11 - 16 kg
Weight
Female
38 - 46 cm
Height
9 - 14 kg
Weight
| Baby age: | Birth to 2 months |
| Puppy age: | 2 to 12 months |
| Adult age: | 1 to 7 years |
| Mature age: | 7 to 10 years |
| Senior age: | From 10 years |
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Get to know the Kromfohrländer
All you need to know about the breed
The Kromfohrländer is one of the best-kept secrets of the canine kingdom. A German original, the breed came about in the mid-twentieth century and still remains very popular in their homeland and the other surrounding countries. Outside of Europe, the Kromfohrländer is hardly found, which keeps them extra special as far as fans of the breed are concerned.
Bred as a true sidekick, this is a dog that likes to get out and stretch their long limbs for long walks in the countryside. In need of a moderate amount of exercise, the Kromfohrländer is nonetheless a very athletic dog who can do well in agility competitions. It’s the company of humans that’s their favourite pastime however. With their Terrier days behind them, the Kromfohrländer is most content perfecting the art of domestic living.
On top of their lively demeanour and penchant for home life, the Kromfohrländer has a fetching bi-colour coat that’s either wire-haired, accompanied by a beard, or smooth-haired, with no facial finishes. They can be endowed with a very long lifespan, too—17 to 18 years, on average. Their knowing expression gives the Kromfohrländer dog a staying power for those lucky enough to own this laid-back breed.
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2 facts about Kromfohrländers
1. No news is good news
When it comes to all things new and different, the Kromfohrländer can be standoffish. The breed isn’t one to warm up too readily to new people, dogs, or situations but can do so if allowed to do so on their own time. Take care in dog parks and on walks and make introductions to new canine friends gradually.
2. Sneeze to meet you
No joke, the Kromfohrländer will seemingly smile – give the canine version of a grin and show their teeth – then sneeze when they meet you. Some dogs will give a lick and some a sniff but the Kromfohrländer is more likely to offer this unique greeting. Dogs sometimes use a sneeze to communicate with humans or other animals – one way of doing so – just like a bark or a give of the paw.
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History of the breed
The Kromfohrländer is said to have their roots in a scruffy Terrier mix dog taken in by American Army troops during WWII whom they found while traipsing through the forests of France. After having been lost when they crossed the border into Germany, the stray dog was then found by one Ilse Scheifenbaum, a breeder who lived in the western German region of North Rhine-Westphalia.
While in Scheifenbaum’s possession, the dog accidentally mated with a wire-haired female Fox Terrier and produced dogs that looked like their father. The Kromfohrländer is also said to descend from the Grand Griffon Vendéen, resulting in both the breed’s size and variability of hair.
Scheifenbaum went on to develop the Kromfohrländer breed and named it for the picturesque “crooked furrows” she lived near, or “krumme furche” in German.
The Fédération Cynologique Internationale registered the breed in 1995.
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From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Kromfohrländers
1. Ears
Triangular ears, rounded tips, set high, lively and active.
2. Body
Small yet lithe body, muscular, well-proportioned.
3. Coat
Double coat, can be wire- or smooth-haired, dense in texture.
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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 Kromfohrländer
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Caring for your Kromfohrländer
Grooming, training and exercise tips
The double-coated Kromfohrländer can have either a smooth or wire-haired outercoat (more commonly the latter) coupled with a soft, short undercoat, and, if they have the latter, will grow a charming beard, too. The hair will shed but stripping it with a hand-stripper regularly – rather than clipping or cutting – is suggested to keep it looking best. Another plus: Dirt naturally falls off the wiry coat so the Kromfohrländer is a very clean dog.
When it comes to exercise for your Kromfohrländer, they’re a breed that very much thrives with long walks outside. If your home is in a suburban setting, daily walks in the neighbourhood will suffice but know that this is a dog who can go the distance. To note: The Kromfohrländer isn’t great in dog parks as they don’t take well to new dogs (only those they know), new situations, and new people.
The Kromfohrländer is a very intuitive breed but training will require patience since they are also quite sensitive. Go slow and they are bound to give their all.
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All about Kromfohrländers
The Kromfohrländer makes a fine companion and a great choice for owners who desire a dog that’s buoyant but not overactive, and mellow but not too much. Although they can at times be picky eaters, the Kromfohrländer breed has a well-balanced temperament that makes them suitable for many households. A strong desire to please and a naturally clean manner are other pluses of this affable breed.
Although recognised by major kennel clubs since the mid-20th century, the Kromfohrländer may not be as famous as other German breeds. But they’re nonetheless just as beloved. Expect a superb, chill demeanour if you’ve decided to bring this dog into your home, and an exceedingly loyal sidekick.
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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/