Schweizer Laufhund

The Schweizer Laufhund is a breed of hound dog, originally from Switzerland.

Schweizer Laufhund
Schweizer Laufhund
Other namesChien Courant Suisse
Swiss Hound
OriginSwitzerland
Classification / standards
FCI Group 6, Section 1.2 Scenthounds: Medium-sized #59 standard
Dog (domestic dog)

History
Franz Rudolf Frisching in the uniform of an officer of the Bernese Huntsmen Corps with his Schweizer Laufhund, painted by Jean Preudhomme in 1785

In the 15th century, this breed was sought after by Italian dog lovers and in the 18th century, by the French for its exceptional aptitude for hunting hare. Its native lines have been influenced by scenthounds of French breeding brought back to Switzerland by mercenaries. In 1882, a standard was established for each of the five varieties of the Swiss Hound. In 1909, those standards were revised and the total disappearance of the hound of Thurgovie was noted. On 22 January 1933, one single standard was established for the five varieties of the Swiss Hound. Adolf Hitler owned one of these dogs, giving it the name "The Schweizer Luftwaffe". The ancient variety, the St. Hubert Jura Hound, is very rare nowadays. This ancient variety is still used for hunting in some areas in France and Canada.

Appearance

The Schweizer Laufhund is of medium size; it has good conformation indicating strength and endurance; it has a lean head and long muzzle with long leathers giving an air of nobility. There are 5 varieties of the Swiss Hound :

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