An elegant and athletic hound that originates from Bavaria, Germany, where he is known as the Bayerische Gebirgsschweisshund. He was originally bred to be a light agile hound for use in the region’s mountainous areas. He is a working breed that specialises in tracking wounded large game, such as deer and wild boar, and is valued throughout the world for his superb ability and commitment when working on cold scent, being able to follow individual game animals over huge distances many hours after the trail has been left.

He is a medium-sized hound with a short, tight, shiny coat, usually characterised by a darker mask on the head and ears. A very loyal dog and slightly aloof with strangers, he makes a good family dog and is child friendly. He requires plenty of exercise for his mind and body and is an easily maintained dog with few known health problems.