Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound
The Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound is described by the AKC as loyal, reserved with strangers, versatile, originally from Germany.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 17-20.5 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 37-66 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Loyal / Reserved With Strangers / Versatile [1] |
| AKC group | Foundation Stock Service [1] |
| Origin | Germany [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 202 of 202 [2] |
| AKC status | Foundation Stock Service (not yet fully recognized) [1] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds are not suited for city life. They are in regular need of space and exercise. They are also not dogs for the casual hunter. [1]
Grooming
The Bavarian requires regular brushing. His coat is dense, close fitting and harsh, with little gloss, and is finer on the head and ears, and harsher and longer on the belly, legs and tail. The breed's strong, fast-growing nails should be trimmed regularly with a nail clipper or grinder to avoid overgrowth, splitting and cracking. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Bavarians are a generally very healthy breed. Responsible breeders screen their stock for health concerns such as hip dysplasia and epilepsy. Good breeders utilize genetic testing of their breeding stock to reduce the likelihood of disease in their puppies. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC lists the Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound in its Foundation Stock Service, a record-keeping program for breeds that are not yet fully AKC-recognized. [1]
- It ranked No. 202 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list. [2]
- The AKC lists Germany as the breed's country of origin. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
Common questions
How long do Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
How big does a Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound get?
AKC breed information lists height 17-20.5 inches and weight 37-66 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.