A deliberately working terrier
The FCI account places the breed's development after the First World War, when a group of German hunters pursued a terrier selected for hunting performance. Rudolf Friess, Walter Zangenberg and Carl-Erich Grunewald were involved, with Herbert Lackner later joining their work.
The history records influences from black-and-tan terriers and subsequent breeding with Old English Wirehaired and Welsh Terrier lines. The German Hunting Terrier Club was founded in 1926. This is the Deutscher Jagdterrier, FCI number 103.
Compact does not mean delicate
The outline is small, compact and proportionate, usually immediately recognisable by dark colour and reddish-tan points. The coat may be rough or coarse-smooth. These are working textures, not different breeds requiring different assumptions about character.
Make room for purpose and rest
The standard emphasises drive, endurance and willingness to work. Give a companion dog secure ways to explore, learn and use its nose while also rewarding settling. Contact with small animals needs active management rather than relying on a friendly relationship with people.
Care in daily life
Check through the coat and between the toes after rough ground. Keep grooming sessions short and predictable, particularly when introducing face and foot handling. A professional can help plan coat maintenance that suits the individual texture. Pain, persistent irritation or a sudden handling change should be discussed with a vet.
Plan comfortable care
Our gentle coat-care guide and first grooming appointment guide help you prepare questions about handling, maintenance and a suitable service. This breed profile is independent of named businesses.
Photograph and sources
The photograph illustrates one German Hunting Terrier. See the linked credit for its creator, source and reusable licence. It does not establish the dog's health, age or temperament.
Read the FCI catalogue entry and FCI breed standard. General care and handling guidance is available from PDSA and Dogs Trust.