German Spaniel (Wachtelhund)

Quick Facts

Versatile German hunting dog developed to track, flush, and retrieve game in dense cover, especially woodland and rough terrain
Medium sized, powerful, and athletic spaniel with a thick, weather resistant coat suited to cold, wet hunting conditions
Extremely people focused and loyal, forms a close bond with one main handler, yet remains affectionate with the whole family
Very high energy and working drive, thriving in active homes that can provide real jobs such as hunting, tracking, or dog sports
Still relatively rare outside Germany, and usually bred primarily as a working gundog rather than a general pet

Appearance & Coat

The German Spaniel, or Wachtelhund as it is known in its home country, is a solidly built, medium sized dog designed for stamina and work in the field. Most adults stand around 45 to 54 centimeters at the shoulder and typically weigh between 18 and 25 kilograms, depending on sex and body condition. They are more substantial than many other spaniel types, with a strong bone structure and a muscular, slightly elongated body that allows them to move powerfully through dense cover.

The head of the German Spaniel is noble and expressive, with a slightly rounded skull and a well developed muzzle that is neither too fine nor too heavy. Their eyes are usually dark to medium brown and give a soft yet alert expression that many owners find very endearing. Long, fairly broad ears hang close to the cheeks and are well feathered, a classic hallmark of spaniel breeds. The neck is strong and flows into a well developed chest and firm back. The tail is carried in line with the back or slightly higher when the dog is working and is usually well coated and feathery.

The Wachtelhund coat is one of its most striking features. It is dense, medium long, and slightly wavy or curly, with a rich undercoat that provides excellent protection against brambles, cold water, and harsh weather. The hair lies close to the body and should feel full and resilient to the touch rather than silky or fine. Longer feathering appears on the ears, back of the legs, and under the tail. The coat is not just for show, it was developed to withstand thorns, snow, and wet all day in the forest.

Colors are typically:

Solid brown in various shades
Brown roan or speckled with white
Brown and white with patches or ticking

Some Wachtelhunds may have small tan markings on the muzzle, chest, or legs, but the overall impression is of a dark, earthy, practical hunting dog that blends naturally into woodland surroundings.

Despite its working origin, daily coat care is quite manageable if done consistently. A good routine is to brush out the coat at least two or three times a week with a slicker brush or pin brush. This removes loose hair, prevents tangles behind the ears and under the armpits, and helps you check for burrs, ticks, and small cuts after walks. During shedding seasons in spring and autumn, more frequent brushing can reduce loose hair around the home and keep the coat healthy.

Ears deserve particular attention. The long, pendulous ears can trap moisture and debris, especially after swimming or hunting. Regularly check inside the ear for redness, odor, or excess wax, and gently clean with a vet approved ear cleaner if needed. Many owners also trim excess hair around the ear canal, paws, and between the pads to avoid matting and mud build up. Bathing can be kept to a minimum, usually only when the dog is particularly dirty. The Wachtelhund’s coat naturally sheds dirt once it dries, so often a good rinse and thorough brushing is all that is required to keep them looking and feeling their best.

Temperament & Personality

The German Spaniel is above all a working gundog, and its temperament reflects that heritage. This is a dog that is eager to please, intensely loyal, and happiest when it has a clear role and close relationship with its handler. Many owners describe the Wachtelhund as a “one person dog,” not in the sense of being unfriendly to others, but in how it tends to bond particularly strongly with the person who trains and hunts or works with it most regularly. That deep bond can be very rewarding if you are looking for a true partner rather than a casual pet.

In the home, the Wachtelhund is usually affectionate, good natured, and steady once its exercise needs are properly met. After a long walk or a day in the field, many settle nicely at your feet or curl up near the family, content to be close without demanding constant attention. They are not typically hyper indoors if their minds and bodies have been used productively, but if they become bored or under exercised, they may grow restless, vocal, or look for mischief.

With children, the German Spaniel tends to be friendly and patient, particularly if raised with them and taught good manners from an early age. They usually enjoy interactive games like fetch, scent searches in the garden, or supervised play in nature. As with any breed, very young children and dogs should always be supervised, and both should be taught to respect boundaries such as not pulling ears or disturbing the dog while it sleeps or eats. A well socialized Wachtelhund can be a wonderful family companion for active households that spend a lot of time outdoors together.

Around other dogs, Wachtelhunds are generally sociable, confident, and playful, especially if they have been accustomed to meeting different dogs from puppyhood. However, intact males can sometimes be assertive with other males, particularly in high arousal situations like hunting or intense play. Careful early socialization and clear, calm handling helps prevent problems. Their strong hunting and flushing instinct means they can be very interested in fast moving animals, so homes with cats or small pets need to introduce and manage interactions with care. Some individuals learn to live peacefully with resident cats, particularly if raised with them, but owners should always remember that the breed has a strong prey drive that can be triggered outdoors.

One of the main challenges for many non hunting homes is the Wachtelhund’s drive and energy level. This is not a laid back companion that is satisfied with a short daily walk and limited mental stimulation. Without proper outlets, they may become noisy, dig, chew, or try to entertain themselves by following scents and escaping fences. They can also be somewhat vocal, using a deep bark or howl to alert their owners or simply express excitement while tracking. This trait is useful in the forest but less appreciated in apartment blocks.

At the same time, when given clear rules, meaningful work, and positive attention, the German Spaniel is a deeply devoted, intelligent, and charming companion. They are often described as having a sense of humor, with a sparkle in the eye and a love of interactive games. If you enjoy building a strong partnership with a working dog and can offer a structured life filled with outdoor activity, the Wachtelhund’s personality can be deeply rewarding.

Training & Exercise

The Wachtelhund is bred to be tireless and determined in the field, so it is not surprising that exercise and training are crucial to a harmonious life with this breed. This dog is not content with a leisurely stroll around the block. It needs real physical challenges and jobs that engage its keen nose and sharp mind.

At a minimum, an adult German Spaniel should have at least two substantial exercise sessions per day, each lasting around 45 to 60 minutes. These should include brisk walking, hiking, or running in safe areas. More importantly, they should involve activities where the dog can use its natural hunting skills, such as:

Scent work or tracking games in woodlands or fields
Retrieving dummies or toys from varied terrain
Search and find games that mimic flushing or finding game

For owners who hunt, the Wachtelhund truly comes into its own. It is used traditionally for flushing game birds, tracking and recovering wounded game, and working in thick undergrowth. Regular hunting, field trials, or participation in gundog training groups provide the structure and purpose these dogs crave. In many European countries, breed clubs require working tests as part of responsible breeding, so this working ability is deeply embedded in the breed’s character.

For non hunting owners, it is important to find suitable alternatives. Dog sports can play a big role. Many Wachtelhunds excel in:

Mantrailing and tracking sports
Nosework competitions
Agility, where their athleticism and enthusiasm shine
Rally obedience or traditional obedience, especially when kept positive and varied

Training methods should be based on positive reinforcement, clear communication, and consistency. The German Spaniel is intelligent and keen to work, but it is also independent and confident in its own abilities. Harsh corrections or heavy handed methods can easily damage trust and reduce the dog’s willingness to cooperate. Instead, reward based training that uses food, toys, and praise works best. Short, focused training sessions with plenty of variety help keep the Wachtelhund engaged and motivated.

Early training should focus heavily on recall, impulse control, and walking nicely on a lead. Because the breed has a strong hunting instinct and a powerful nose, a reliable recall is essential for safety. Start recall games in low distraction environments, then gradually build up to more tempting situations, such as in fields or light woodland, always rewarding generously when the dog returns. Many owners find that using a long line outdoors during adolescence gives the dog some freedom while keeping everyone safe as recall continues to develop.

Socialization is just as important. Expose a Wachtelhund puppy to different people, dogs, animals, environments, and sounds in a calm, positive way. This reduces the risk of timidity, noise sensitivity, or over excitement in new situations later on. A well socialized German Spaniel is typically confident, adaptable, and easier to handle in busy modern environments, from town streets to outdoor cafés.

Mental exercise is just as important as physical activity. Daily training sessions, puzzle toys, food dispensing toys, and problem solving games at home can help your dog unwind and feel satisfied. Teaching useful everyday skills, such as settling on a mat, waiting politely at doors, and relaxing in a crate or bed, will help balance the natural drive and energy of the Wachtelhund. With the right training approach and a commitment to regular, meaningful exercise, this breed becomes a highly responsive and enjoyable partner.

Health

The German Spaniel is generally considered a robust and hardy working breed, developed more for performance and function than for extreme physical traits. Many Wachtelhunds enjoy a long and active life, often reaching 12 to 14 years when well cared for. However, like all purebred dogs, the breed has some health considerations that owners and breeders should be aware of.

Because they are medium sized and athletic, joint health is an important area to monitor. Some German Spaniels may be affected by hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia, conditions where the joint does not form perfectly and can lead to pain or arthritis later in life. Responsible breeders have their breeding dogs’ hips and often elbows evaluated through official screening schemes, and they select dogs with healthy scores to reduce the risk in future generations. As an owner, you can help by keeping your dog at a lean, muscular weight, avoiding excessive jumping in young, still growing dogs, and providing controlled, age appropriate exercise.

The breed’s long, floppy ears and love of water and mud means that ear problems can occur. Moisture and debris trapped in the ear canal may lead to ear infections, which can cause discomfort and, if left untreated, more serious complications. Regular ear checks, gentle cleaning when needed, and prompt veterinary attention at the first sign of redness, odor, or head shaking can keep this under control.

Like many gundogs, German Spaniels can occasionally be prone to eye issues such as cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy, although these conditions are not as widely reported in this breed as in some others. Eye examinations by veterinary ophthalmologists are often recommended for breeding dogs. In some breeding circles, genetic tests for inheritable conditions may also be used, depending on country and club guidelines. Prospective puppy buyers should ask breeders about what health tests they perform on their dogs and how they monitor the health of their lines.

Because the Wachtelhund is a deep chested dog, there is a general awareness of the risk of gastric torsion, sometimes called bloat. This is a life threatening emergency where the stomach twists. While not specific to the German Spaniel alone, owners should be aware of the signs, such as unproductive retching, restlessness, and a swollen abdomen, and seek immediate veterinary care if they appear. Feeding several smaller meals rather than one large one, avoiding vigorous exercise right after meals, and maintaining good general health may help reduce risk.

Overall, regular veterinary checkups, vaccinations, parasite protection, and dental care will go a long way in keeping a Wachtelhund healthy. Many individuals remain fit and active until well into their senior years. A balanced diet with appropriate protein and fat levels for a working or active dog, along with regular condition checks, will help maintain muscle and joint health. Owners who hunt heavily should pay attention to small cuts, torn pads, and eye injuries from branches, and check their dogs after each outing.

When choosing a breeder, look for someone who:

Participates in official health testing programs
Hunts or works their dogs and evaluates temperament carefully
Is open about any health issues that have appeared in their lines
Provides a written health contract and support for the lifetime of the dog

By combining sound breeding practices with thoughtful day to day care, the German Spaniel can remain the healthy, resilient, and hard working companion it was designed to be.

History & Origins

The German Spaniel, or Deutscher Wachtelhund, has its roots deep in the hunting traditions of central Europe. The term “Wachtelhund” translates roughly to “quail dog,” reflecting the breed’s early use as a flushing dog for game birds hidden in dense vegetation. Its ancestors likely include various old German hunting dogs and spaniel types that were used by foresters and professional hunters to search for and flush game in the thick forests of Germany and neighboring regions.

By the late nineteenth century, several local spaniel type dogs were still present in parts of Germany, but they lacked standardization. Around this time, dedicated hunters and breeders began to focus on preserving and developing a versatile, medium sized flushing and retrieving dog for woodland work. In 1903, a formal breeding program was established under the guidance of hunters who wanted a reliable, multi purpose gundog that could succeed in the varied conditions found in German forests, from dense undergrowth to marshy ground and rough hillsides.

The emphasis was always on working ability, steadiness under the gun, strong nose, and persistence rather than on appearance alone. As a result, the Wachtelhund became known as a tireless, bold, and skilled dog that could track wounded game, flush birds and small mammals, and retrieve on land and from water. It gained a reputation as a “forester’s dog,” a trusted companion to professional hunters and gamekeepers who needed a versatile partner rather than a specialist.

Over time, the breed came under the umbrella of the German kennel and hunting associations, and a breed standard was established that formalized its appearance and character while still placing great importance on practical working tests. Many clubs and breeding programs maintained strict rules requiring that breeding dogs prove their hunting ability in field trials or official hunting tests. This focus helped preserve the drive, resilience, and intelligence that define the German Spaniel today.

Outside Germany, the Wachtelhund remains relatively rare but has slowly gained admirers in countries such as Sweden, Norway, and the United Kingdom. In Scandinavia it is used not only for birds but also for tracking and flushing game such as roe deer and wild boar, where its determination and fearless nature are highly valued. In Britain, a small but passionate community of hunters and enthusiasts has formed clubs to support the breed and promote responsible breeding and training.

Today, the German Spaniel is recognized in many national kennel clubs as a distinct breed, often grouped among the flushing or versatile gundogs. Although some individuals are kept as active companion dogs or participate in dog sports, the majority of well bred Wachtelhunds are still strongly associated with hunting and field work. This close tie to its original purpose is one of the main reasons the breed has retained its robust health, practical coat, and serious working attitude.

Modern Wachtelhunds carry the legacy of over a century of careful working dog breeding. They are still expected to be brave in dense cover, biddable yet independent enough to work at a distance, and persistent when following a scent trail. For those who appreciate a traditional European hunting dog that has not been overly altered by show trends, the German Spaniel stands as an authentic and living piece of hunting history.

Living with the Breed

Living with a German Spaniel is a rewarding experience for people who enjoy an active, outdoor oriented lifestyle and are ready to commit real time and energy to their dog. This is not a breed that fits easily into a very sedentary or busy urban routine where it is left alone for long hours and only given brief walks. If you love hiking in all weather, training regularly, and perhaps hunting or doing dog sports, the Wachtelhund can become a loyal and enthusiastic companion.

New owners should be prepared for a lively puppy that grows into an energetic adolescent. Early on, it is helpful to establish clear daily routines:

Regular, structured walks or off lead runs in safe areas
Short training sessions woven into daily life, such as practicing recall during walks or asking for a sit before meals
Rest periods in a crate or designated bed to teach the dog to relax

Crate training can be particularly useful for a young German Spaniel. It provides a safe place to rest after busy outings and prevents destructive behavior when the pup is unsupervised. Many working owners also use crates or secure kennels in vehicles for safe transport to and from hunting grounds or training areas.

In terms of environment, the Wachtelhund does best with access to a secure garden or yard where it can move freely and sniff around. Fences should be solid and of a reasonable height, as some individuals can be talented jumpers or diggers if they catch a scent on the other side. Apartment living is not impossible, but it requires a very dedicated owner who can compensate with plenty of daily outings, structured activity, and mental enrichment.

Financially, owning a German Spaniel involves similar costs to other medium sized working dogs. Annual expenses can include:

Quality food, often at the higher end for active or working dogs
Routine veterinary care, vaccinations, parasite prevention, and possible insurance
Equipment such as sturdy leads, long lines, harnesses, reflective vests, and car crates
Training classes, hunting club memberships, or entry fees for trials and sports
Occasional grooming tools, such as brushes, nail clippers, and ear cleaning supplies

On top of these predictable costs, responsible owners should budget for unexpected veterinary bills, especially if their dog is hunted regularly and may pick up injuries in rough terrain. Insurance or a dedicated savings fund can provide peace of mind.

In the home, a Wachtelhund appreciates being close to its people. This is not a breed that thrives if kept in isolation in an outdoor kennel with limited contact. While some working dogs may be housed in kennels, they still need daily interaction, training, and time with their handlers. As a family dog, the Wachtelhund usually enjoys joining household activities, from relaxing in the living room to joining family trips. Many individuals travel well and adapt to new surroundings as long as their exercise and routine remain consistent.

Useful equipment for everyday life with this breed often includes:

A comfortable, supportive bed for joint health after long outings
A well fitting harness for secure, controlled walking
A long line to practice recall safely in open areas
Durable retrieving dummies or toys designed for gundogs
Interactive food toys or scent games for rainy days

Potential owners should also consider the time commitment for training. A German Spaniel benefits from continuous learning, not just a puppy course. Many handlers enjoy attending regular training groups, working with a mentor in the hunting community, or participating in dog sports to keep the dog’s skills sharp and its mind engaged.

In return for this commitment, the Wachtelhund offers an exceptional partnership. It will rise enthusiastically to almost any outdoor challenge, whether that is a long day in the field, a multi hour hike, or a demanding tracking exercise. At home, with its needs properly met, it is typically affectionate, steady, and deeply attached to its family. For those willing to embrace its working heritage and provide a life rich in activity and purpose, the German Spaniel becomes not just a pet, but a companion in every sense of the word.

Characteristics

Quiet

Easy to train

Medium

Characteristic	Value
Breed Type	Purebred
Aggressiveness	1/5
Child Friendly	3/5
Energy	3/5
Hair Shedding	3/5
Health	3/5
Intelligence	3/5
Grooming Needs	3/5
Learning Ability	4/5
Barking Level	2/5
Height	45 – 54 cm
Weight	18 – 25 kg
Life Expectancy	12 – 14 years

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of temperament does the German Spaniel have, especially around family and children?

This breed is typically friendly, people oriented, and very loyal to its family, often forming a close bond with one main person. Around respectful children it is usually gentle and playful, but its strong hunting drive means supervision is important. It can be reserved with strangers and may be vocal, so early socialization is valuable.

How intense is the hunting drive in a Wachtelhund and can it live in a non‑hunting home?

The hunting instinct is very strong, as the breed was developed specifically to flush and track game in challenging conditions. Some individuals can adapt to an active, non‑hunting home if they receive substantial daily exercise and structured mental work such as scent games. However, many are happiest when they can use their hunting skills regularly, and off‑leash freedom can be difficult to manage around wildlife.

How much exercise does a German Spaniel need each day?

This is a high energy working gun dog that typically needs at least 1.5 to 2 hours of vigorous daily activity, not just casual walks. Ideal exercise includes off‑lead running in safe areas, field work, tracking, or other demanding activities. Without this level of outlet, it may become restless, noisy, or destructive.

Is the Wachtelhund suitable for apartment living or city life?

It is generally not well suited to apartment living or a very urban lifestyle, because it thrives on space, outdoor work, and frequent access to nature. A home with a securely fenced yard and easy access to fields or forests is preferable. In a city, only very committed owners who can provide daily intensive exercise and training usually succeed with this breed.

What health problems are most common in German Spaniels?

Overall, the breed is considered relatively healthy, but ear infections are common due to the heavy, pendulous ears and love of water and cover. Hip dysplasia and eye issues can occur, so responsible breeders screen for these conditions. As with any active hunting dog, injuries and joint strain are also concerns if exercise is not managed sensibly.

How much grooming does a Wachtelhund require and how much does it shed?

The wavy, medium length coat sheds moderately year round and more heavily seasonally. Weekly brushing, plus more frequent grooming during shedding periods, usually keeps the coat in good condition and helps prevent mats and burrs. Ears should be checked and cleaned regularly, especially after hunting or swimming.

How trainable is the German Spaniel and what training approach works best?

It is intelligent and eager to work, but can be independent and single minded when following a scent. Consistent, reward based training combined with clear structure and plenty of field work tends to be most effective. Variety and real tasks, such as tracking or retrieving, keep it engaged far better than repetitive obedience drills alone.

Can a Wachtelhund live with cats or smaller pets?

Because it was bred to hunt small game, many individuals have a strong prey drive toward smaller animals. Some can live peacefully with cats if raised together and carefully managed, but there is always some risk, especially with unfamiliar small pets. Secure separation and supervised interactions are often necessary.

What kind of owner or home is this breed best suited for?

This breed suits active owners who enjoy outdoor pursuits and can commit to daily, robust exercise in all weather. Hunters, search and rescue handlers, or very sporty households often provide the best match. First time dog owners or people wanting a mostly indoor companion usually find this breed challenging.

How rare is the German Spaniel outside of Germany and how hard is it to find a puppy?

Outside its home country, this breed is quite rare and is often maintained primarily within hunting circles. Finding a puppy may involve long waiting lists, import arrangements, and close scrutiny of the buyer's intentions and lifestyle. Prospective owners should plan well ahead and be prepared to travel or work with specialized breeders.