The Westphalian Dachsbracke is a short-legged scenthound that originated in Wesstphalia region of Germany. It is the ancestor of Swedish dog, the Drever. Also known as Westphalian Hound, it is a smaller, short-legged version of Deutsche Bracke which was developed by crossing German Hound (Deutsche Bracke) with Dachshund. This old breed got its first mention in 1886 as a variety of German Hound though dogs of similar type are seen in very old European paintings. Development of this breed is the result of need of a short legged dog who could penetrate burrows, caves and dens to flush out game. This is a tireless hunter breed which can effectively hunt rabbits, hares and foxes as well as wild boar. Its courageous nature allows it to stand unintimidated before game much bigger than its size. Its short legs, though, hamper its hunting skills in deep snow.
This is a sturdily built dog that stands between 12-15 inches. Very similar to its descendent, Drever, the dog has long and narrow head. It has a long muzzle with slightly arched nose bridge. The dark pigmented nose has flesh colour strip in the center. Dark eyes have friendly expression. Ears are medium length, broad at base and rounded at tips. Thick and long neck has some loose skin but no dewlaps. This dog's moderately long body is strongly supported by forelegs and comes with slightly arched back that has slight dip behind the shoulders. The broad lion is well developed and belly is slightly tucked-up. Tail is thick at the root, set on relatively high and is carried in saber fashion. Dense and coarse coat covers the whole body uniformly. The coat is usually tricolour with red to yellow colouring, a black saddle and white markings, referred to as Bracken Marks, on head, neck, chest, legs and tip of tail.
This breed is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by FCI and UKC.
