Welding work with dogs" is an essential part of hunting that focuses on the cooperation between hunter and dog. This work involves tracking and trailing wounded game with the help of a well-trained hunting dog that specializes in the so-called "sweat" (blood) of the animal. The Hanoverian Sweat Hound (HS), Bavarian Mountain Hound (BGS) and Alpine Dachsbracke breeds are particularly suitable for this task.
Historical significance and development
For centuries, hunters have used dogs to track down injured game. A dog's ability to track even the smallest traces of blood has proved invaluable. Originally, breeds such as the Hannoversche Schweißhund, the Bayrische Gebirgsschweißhund and the Alpenländische Dachsbracke were bred for this task. These breeds are characterized by their excellent sense of smell and endurance.
The Hannoverscher Schweißhund is one of the oldest breeds of welding dog and has its roots in medieval Germany. It was bred specifically for tracking wounded big game. The Hannoversche Schweißhund is known for its keen sense of smell and its ability to pick up and follow tracks even under difficult conditions.
The Bavarian Mountain Hound was developed in the Bavarian Alps in the 19th century to meet the special requirements of hunting in mountainous regions. This breed is smaller and lighter than the Hanoverian Mountain Hound, which helps it to navigate difficult terrain. Despite their smaller size, they are just as effective at tracking wounded game.
The Alpenländische Dachsbracke is a robust and versatile breed that was originally developed for hunting badgers and other small animals in the Alps. In addition to its role as a hunting dog, it is also used for den hunting. Its keen sense of smell and stamina make it an excellent companion for hunting.
Education and training
The training of a gun dog is a lengthy and intensive process. It often begins as early as puppyhood and includes basic obedience as well as special tracking work. The dogs learn to follow different scents and to distinguish the blood trail of an injured animal from other scents. Cooperation between dog and handler is also important: the dog must listen to its handler's commands, while the handler must be able to correctly interpret the dog's signs and signals.
Training the Hanoverian Welding Dog
The training of a Hanoverian Sweat Dog focuses heavily on developing and refining its natural sense of smell. These dogs are often trained in special training programs that include intensive tracking work and learning basic obedience.
Training the Bavarian Mountain Hound
The Bavarian Mountain Hound is trained in a similar way to the Hanoverian Hound, but with a particular focus on adapting to mountainous and difficult terrain. Their training often includes training at different altitudes and in different weather conditions.
Training of the Alpine Dachsbracke
The training of the Alpine Dachsbracke is versatile and includes both welding work and hunting in the field. These dogs must learn to work effectively both above and below ground. Their training emphasizes scent discrimination and endurance in tracking.
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Use in practice
In practice, welding work begins after a successful shot that did not kill the game immediately. The dog is placed at the shooting point where it picks up the scent. Depending on the terrain and weather conditions, tracking can take several hours. The dog's patience and precision are crucial in finding the wounded animal and, if necessary, putting it out of its misery.
Deployment of the Hanoverian Welding Dog
Hanoverian hounds are particularly suitable for tracking in flat to slightly hilly areas. Their strength lies in their ability to track even the smallest traces of blood over long distances.
Use of the Bavarian Mountain Hound
The Bavarian Mountain Hound is particularly effective in mountainous and difficult terrain. Its compact size and endurance make it ideal for tracking in the Alps and other mountainous regions.
Use of the Alpine Dachsbracke
The Alpine Dachsbracke is versatile and suitable for hunting in forests as well as in mountainous areas. Their ability to work underground also makes them particularly valuable for hunting in burrows.
Importance for animal welfare
Welding work makes a significant contribution to animal welfare. The use of bloodhounds ensures that injured game is found and released quickly, minimizing unnecessary suffering. It also promotes ethically responsible hunting practices that focus on the welfare of the game.
Conclusion
Welding work with dogs is an indispensable part of modern hunting. It combines centuries-old tradition with responsible hunting practice and demonstrates the close partnership between man and animal. A well-trained hunting dog, be it a Hanoverian Welding Dog, a Bavarian Mountain Welding Dog or an Alpine Dachsbracke, is not only a loyal companion, but also a guarantee for successful and ethical hunting.