How to choose a Bavarian Mountain Hound puppy

A Bavarian Mountain Hound will be at your side for many years, so it is worth choosing carefully. These are the key points we would give anyone looking for a puppy, whether from us or from another breeder.

1. First of all: is this the right breed for you?

It is a working dog that needs countryside, exercise and work for its nose. If you are unsure, read our guide Hunting dog or family dog?

2. Pedigree and paperwork

• An LOE pedigree (the Spanish Kennel Club stud book, kept by the Royal Canine Society of Spain) or the equivalent from the dog’s country of origin. It is your guarantee that it is a purebred Bavarian Mountain Hound.
• Microchip, vaccinations, deworming and veterinary record book all up to date when you collect the puppy.
• A written contract of sale.

3. The parents tell you a lot

• Health tests, especially for hip and elbow dysplasia.
• A balanced temperament, calm at home and confident in the field.
• Work and titles: the parents should genuinely track and, ideally, have been graded at shows. That is a guarantee that their conformation meets the standard.
• Photos, videos and paperwork for both parents. A good breeder will happily show you them.

4. How the litter has been raised

Puppies raised in the home, with their mother and around people, arrive much better socialised. Ask where they have grown up, what stimulation they have had and when they go to their new homes: never before 8 weeks.

5. Male or female?

Both make excellent trackers. Males are slightly bigger (47–52 cm and 20–30 kg) and females slightly lighter (44–48 cm and 17–25 kg). Each puppy’s character matters more than its sex; a good breeder will help you choose the one that suits you best.

6. Warning signs

• A price far below what is usual for the breed.
• No pedigree, or a promise of "papers later on".
• Puppies handed over before 8 weeks.
• The breeder cannot give you information about the parents or their health tests.
• A rush to close the sale without asking you anything about yourself, your home or your lifestyle.

7. Questions you should ask the breeder

• What health tests have the parents had?
• Do they work as tracking dogs? Do they hold any titles?
• What comes with the puppy?
• Will you advise me after I take the puppy home?

A good breeder will also ask you questions: they care about where the puppy is going to live.

What about the price?

It depends on the bloodline, the parents, their health tests and titles, and what comes with the puppy. Be wary of very low prices: they almost always hide something. If you would like to know the price of our litters, contact us with no obligation.

See puppies and upcoming litters · Meet the parents · Contact