At a glance the quick version
FCI asks only for a weight in proportion to build. UKC gives 16-22 lb (about 7.3-10 kg), bitches lighter; figures by sex are from Wikipedia.
Coat and looks how to spot one
dense coat, rough-haired or coarse smooth
Comes in two coat types: a hard, rough coat or a coarse, smooth one, both thick and close enough to shrug off brambles and bad weather. The body is compact and sturdy for its small size.13
Personality what they are like
A bold, spirited working terrier that loves a job and forms tight bonds with its owner. It is sociable and steady when well raised, but its energy and determination suit experienced, active handlers.132
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Very high. Bred as an all-round hunting dog for work underground and as a flushing dog, it needs vigorous daily exercise plus training or scent tasks to stay content.12
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Low-maintenance coat; a weekly brush, with occasional hand-stripping of rough coats, keeps it in order.13
Home where they are happiest
Best in an active or rural home with secure fencing; a strong prey drive means recall needs work.32
Company who they like around
Loyal and affectionate with owners and hunting companions; thrives on structured activity with its person.32
The story where it all began
German hunters Rudolf Frieß, Walter Zangenberg and Carl-Erich Grünewald set out after World War I to create a terrier bred purely for hunting ability. Starting from black-and-tan terriers supplied by zoo director Lutz Heck, they added Old English Wirehaired and Welsh Terrier blood, and the German Hunting Terrier Club was founded in 1926.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
- 1
Its foundation dogs came from Lutz Heck, director of the Berlin Zoo.2
- 2
Its creators chose working ability over looks, making it one of the most purely hunting-focused terriers.1
- 3
In North America it has been used by hunters for raccoon and squirrel.3
- 4
A Jagdterrier Club of America was formed in St. Louis in 1956.2
Recognised by the official bits
- FCI
- Standard No. 103, Group 3 (Terriers), Section 1 (Large and medium sized Terriers), with working trial; current standard published 19 Mar 20151
- UKC
- Terrier Group; recognised 1 Jan 19933
- AKC
- Not recognised2
The care rhythm Furry Diary remembers it for you
A typical home-care rhythm for a Jagdterrier. It is our own starting plan, not a vet's advice, and you can change every line in the app.
- Brushingevery week
- Bathevery 8 weeks
- Hand strippingHand stripping keeps the harsh texture; clipping also worksevery 12 weeks
- Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
- Ear checkevery 2 weeks
- Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
- ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
- Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
- Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Jagdterrier, and at what times?
Feed adult Jagdterriers at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Consistent times help their digestion, but the exact schedule can fit your routine. For portion sizes, check the food label and ask your vet.4
What should a Jagdterrier eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A high-quality dog food suited to their age and high activity level is ideal. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and many others listed by the ASPCA. Always avoid human treats and consult your vet for a balanced diet.5
How often should I bathe a Jagdterrier?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and general guidance recommends at least every three months. Their low-maintenance coat doesn't need frequent bathing unless they get very dirty. Use a gentle dog shampoo.6 Furry Diary plan
How often does a Jagdterrier need brushing?
A weekly brush keeps their dense coat in good condition, as Furry Diary's plan recommends. Both rough and smooth coats benefit from this routine to remove loose hair and dirt. It's a quick, bonding task.136 Furry Diary plan
How do I trim a Jagdterrier's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every 3 weeks or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.6 Furry Diary plan
How much exercise does a Jagdterrier need?
This spirited terrier needs vigorous daily exercise plus training or scent tasks to stay happy. Furry Diary suggests daily walks and play, but they thrive on active jobs and mental challenges. A tired Jagdterrier is a content one.12 Furry Diary plan
How do I look after a Jagdterrier's teeth and ears?
Brush their teeth daily if possible, or at least 2, 3 times a week with dog toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks and clean gently without pushing anything into the canal. Regular care prevents problems and keeps them comfortable.6 Furry Diary plan
How long does a Jagdterrier live?
Jagdterriers typically live 12 to 14 years, a good long life for a small, sturdy dog. With proper care and regular vet checkups, many enjoy their full lifespan.2
Is a Jagdterrier good with children and other pets?
When well raised and socialized, they can be steady and sociable with children. However, their strong prey drive means caution around small pets like cats or rodents. Early training and supervision are key.132
Can a Jagdterrier be left alone?
They form tight bonds with their owner and thrive on structured activity, so long periods alone may cause stress. They do best in homes where someone is around most of the day or they have plenty of enrichment. If left alone, provide toys and a secure space.32
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Furry Diary's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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Where this comes from
Every breed page shows where each fact comes from. If we got something wrong, sorry, we are pet people, not a science magazine. Tell us at support@furrydiary.app and we will fix it.
- FCI Standard No. 103 Deutscher Jagdterrier fci.beused for recognition, height, coat, colours, temperament, history
- Wikipedia: German Hunting Terrier en.wikipedia.orgused for weights by sex, lifespan, history, US club
- UKC: Jagdterrier ukcdogs.comused for UKC recognition, weight, coat, colours, temperament
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
- ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Cat grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- RSPCA: What to feed your rabbit rspca.org.ukused for owner questions
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.