Small Swiss Hound (Lucerne Type)

The history of the Small Swiss Hound (Lucerne Type), or Luzerner Niederlaufhund as it’s known in its homeland, is closely linked to the evolution of hunting traditions in Switzerland in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. During this period, significant changes were made to the legislation governing hunting. Restrictions were placed on the use of taller, faster hounds in certain cantons because they could easily drive game into neighbouring hunting grounds. This created conflicts and made it difficult to manage wildlife populations.

Hunters needed a dog that retained all the outstanding qualities of the Swiss Hound – a keen sense of smell, stamina, a clear voice, and a passion for the chase – but was slower and more compact. This led to targeted breeding efforts to create a short-legged version of the existing hounds. The foundation stock was the Small Swiss Hound (Lucerne Type), known for its unique “blue” colouring.

To reduce their height, they were crossed with Dachsbracke, which helped to establish the gene for short-leggedness (a trait known as bassetism). The result was a dog with the powerful body of a hound but on short, sturdy legs. This not only slowed them down but also gave them new advantages: the small hounds proved to be exceptionally skilled at pursuing game through dense thickets, undergrowth, and even into burrows where their taller relatives couldn’t reach.

This selective breeding led to the formation of four distinct varieties of the Small Swiss Hound, differing mainly in colour, with each descending from its corresponding larger counterpart:

• Small Lucerne Hound (Luzerner Niederlaufhund)
• Small Bernese Hound (Berner Niederlaufhund)
• Small Jura Hound (Jura Niederlaufhund)
• Small Schwyz Hound (Schwyzer Niederlaufhund)

The first breed club, the “Schweizer Niederlaufhund-Club,” was founded in 1905. Thanks to the efforts of enthusiasts, the breed was standardised, and in 1954, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) officially recognised the Small Swiss Hound, approving a single standard (No. 60) with four colour variations. Today, the Small Swiss Hounds, including the Lucerne variety, remain quite rare outside of their native Switzerland and neighbouring countries, where they are highly valued for their exceptional working abilities.

The Small Swiss Hound (Lucerne Type) is a sturdily built, low-to-the-ground dog with an elongated body and noble head, reflecting its hound heritage. It gives the impression of a resilient and agile animal, despite its short limbs.

Head: The head is dry, elongated, with a narrow but not pointed muzzle. The skull is slightly domed, without pronounced wrinkles. The stop (the transition from forehead to muzzle) is moderately defined. The lips are tight-fitting, forming a black outline.

Eyes: Oval-shaped, medium-sized, usually dark brown or brown, with a lively and friendly expression. The eyelids are tight, which is important for protecting the eyes when working in dense undergrowth.

Ears: One of the breed’s most characteristic features. They are very long, set low, below the eye line. When relaxed, they hang down, elegantly twisting into a roll and forming folds. They are soft and velvety to the touch.

Body: Elongated and rectangular in shape. The neck is muscular with a slight dewlap, which is normal for the breed. The chest is deep and voluminous, providing ample space for the lungs and heart—crucial for a stamina-driven hound. The back is straight and strong. The croup is slightly sloping, transitioning smoothly into the tail.

Tail: Of medium length, sabre-shaped, and set as a continuation of the croup. When moving, the dog carries it slightly raised but not curled over its back.

Limbs: Short, but very strong and well-boned. The paws are rounded and compact, with tough pads, allowing the dog to move confidently over any terrain.

Coat and Colour: The pride of the Small Swiss Hound (Lucerne Type). The coat is short, smooth, and lies flat against the body, with a minimal undercoat. The colour is unique: the base is “blue,” created by a mixture of black and white hairs. This base is covered with heavy black speckling or ticking. Large black patches or a black mantle (saddle) are permissible and desirable. Bright tan markings are also required above the eyes, on the cheeks, chest, and legs. A white patch on the chest is allowed but not preferred.

FCI Standard No. 60 Conformance Table

The character of the Small Swiss Hound (Lucerne Type) can be described as having a dual nature, and this is what makes it so unique. On a hunt, it is a passionate, relentless, and independent pursuer, completely dedicated to its work. Its clear, melodic voice rings through the forest, informing the hunter of the chase’s progress. At home, however, this dog transforms into a calm, gentle, and extremely devoted companion.

Devotion to its Owner: The Small Swiss Hound (Lucerne Type) forms a strong bond with its family, and particularly with one owner. It loves to spend time with them but is never overbearing. This is a sensitive dog that keenly perceives its owner’s mood and does not tolerate harshness or shouting.

Intelligence and Wit: These are very clever dogs that learn commands quickly. However, like all hounds, they possess a certain degree of independence. If training becomes dull or inconsistent, the hound may show a stubborn streak. Its intelligence needs constant stimulation through games, new walking routes, and scent work activities.

Attitude Towards Children and Other Animals: They generally get on well with children, especially if they grow up together. However, it’s important to teach a child not to disturb the dog when it is resting. Due to their strong hunting instinct, relationships with other pets, especially cats and rodents, can be challenging. Early and proper socialisation is key to peaceful coexistence. They are typically not confrontational with other dogs, as they are accustomed to working in a pack.

Voice: Potential owners should be aware that Small Swiss Hounds (Lucerne Type) are “talkative” dogs. Their bark and bay (a characteristic hound “song”) are important tools during a hunt. In a domestic setting, they may use their voice when bored, left alone, or if they spot something interesting outside the window. This is worth considering if you live in a built-up area.

Although the Small Swiss Hound (Lucerne Type) is low-maintenance, its care has key aspects tied to its origin and purpose. This is not a house dog, and attempting to keep it in a city flat without adequate exercise is bound to fail.

Grooming: The short, smooth coat does not require complex care. A weekly brush with a rubber curry comb or grooming mitt is enough to remove dead hair and massage the skin. The dog should only be bathed when absolutely necessary, as frequent washing can strip the skin’s natural protective oils. Far more important is the regular inspection and cleaning of the ears. Their hanging shape creates a warm, moist environment perfect for bacteria and yeast to thrive, so they should be checked for dirt, ticks, and redness after every walk in the woods or fields. Don’t forget to trim their nails and care for their teeth too.

Physical Exercise: This is the most critical aspect of their care. The Small Swiss Hound (Lucerne Type) needs daily, long, and intense exercise. A simple walk on a lead around the block is nothing to them. The dog needs at least 1.5-2 hours of active movement a day, ideally with the chance to run freely in a safe, fenced area. Ideal activities include:

• Long walks or jogs over varied terrain.
• Scent work activities.
• Endurance games.
• Simulated hunting (tracking).

Living Conditions: The ideal home for a Small Swiss Hound (Lucerne Type) is a house with a large, securely fenced garden. The fence must be high enough to prevent jumping and deep enough to stop them from digging their way out when they catch an interesting scent.

Training a Small Swiss Hound (Lucerne Type) is an interesting yet challenging process that requires patience, consistency, and an understanding of a hunting dog’s psychology from the owner. The foundation of success is early socialisation and building a relationship based on trust.

Education should begin from the first day the puppy arrives home. It needs to be introduced to different people, sounds, places, and other animals (under strict supervision). This will help it grow into a well-balanced and confident dog.

Training should be based on positive reinforcement: praise, treats, and toys. Harshness, physical punishment, or shouting are completely unacceptable. These are sensitive dogs, and such methods can permanently destroy their trust and willingness to cooperate.

The biggest challenge for an owner is mastering the “come” command. The hunting instinct is so strong that once a hound is on a scent, it may simply “tune out” and ignore any commands. Therefore, letting the dog off the lead should only be done in a securely fenced area or in places where you are 100% certain of its safety. Recall training needs to be practised constantly from a young age, using the most high-value treats.

No one has studied this small breed systematically, so no list of hereditary diseases exists for it — that is a gap in the data, not evidence of health. This is because breeding has always focused on working ability rather than extreme looks. However, like any breed, they have a predisposition to certain health issues.

• Ear Infections (Otitis): This is the number one problem for all droopy-eared dogs. The long, close-fitting ears block airflow to the ear canal, creating a warm, moist environment ideal for the growth of bacteria and yeast. Regular preventive cleaning and inspection are essential.
• Hip Dysplasia: While not a widespread issue in this breed, the risk exists. It is important to choose a puppy from health-tested parents with good hip scores.
• Hunting Injuries: Cuts, sprains, and insect or snake bites are occupational hazards for any hunting dog. An owner should have basic first-aid skills.
• Eye Diseases: With age, they can develop cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy.

A proper diet, adequate physical exercise, and regular check-ups with the vet are key to a long and healthy life for your pet, which on average is 13-15 years.

The cornerstone of an active hunting dog’s diet is high-quality protein. Owners can choose between two types of feeding: commercial dry food or a natural diet.

Commercial Food: This is the simplest way to provide a balanced diet. You should choose a premium or super-premium food for active, medium-sized breeds. During periods of intense activity (like the hunting season), you can switch to a more calorie-dense formula. It’s important to follow the feeding guidelines on the packaging to avoid weight gain.

Natural Diet: This option requires more time and knowledge from the owner. The bulk of the diet (around 50-60%) should be raw or cooked lean meat (beef, turkey, chicken) and offal. The remainder consists of:

• Grains: Buckwheat, rice, oats.
• Vegetables: Carrots, pumpkin, courgette, broccoli (raw and grated, or cooked).
• Cultured Dairy Products: Low-fat kefir, natural yoghurt, cottage cheese.
• Eggs: 1-2 times a week.

When feeding a natural diet, it is essential to add a vitamin and mineral supplement recommended by your vet. It is strictly forbidden to give the dog cooked bones, chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, cured meats, or any food from your own plate. Fresh, clean drinking water must be available at all times.

1. The name “blue” hound is, of course, a poetic exaggeration. The unique visual effect is created by a genetic trait where a large number of black hairs grow on a white background, giving the impression of a blue-grey hue from a distance.
2. The German word “Niederlaufhund” literally translates to “low-running dog” or “short-legged hound,” which perfectly describes its appearance and purpose.
3. The Small Swiss Hound (Lucerne Type), like the other Small Swiss Hounds, is a true all-rounder. It is used to hunt hare, roe deer, fox, and sometimes, when working in a pack, even wild boar.
4. The voice of each hound is unique. Experienced hunters can determine what game the dog is pursuing and at what stage the chase is, simply by the tone and frequency of its bark.
5. Despite its rarity worldwide, in its native Switzerland and neighbouring France, these dogs are still actively used for their original purpose and are highly esteemed by hunters. There are even special competitions and trials held for these small hounds.

Is the Small Swiss Hound (Lucerne Type) suitable for living in a flat?
No, absolutely not. This is an extremely energetic dog that needs space and daily, intense physical exercise. Keeping it in a confined space will lead to behavioural and health problems.

Can this dog be a good family companion?
Yes, but under certain conditions. If the family leads a very active lifestyle (hiking, running, trips to the countryside) and is prepared to dedicate a lot of time to activities with the dog, the Small Swiss Hound (Lucerne Type) will be a wonderful, devoted, and gentle friend. It is good with children, but its relationship with other pets needs supervision.

Do they shed a lot?
Shedding is moderate and seasonal (in spring and autumn). Regular brushing during these periods will help keep the amount of hair in the house under control.

Are they easy for a novice to train?
No, this breed is not for beginners. Their intelligence is combined with the natural independence and stubbornness characteristic of hounds. They need an owner who understands the specifics of hunting dogs, who is patient, consistent, and can be an authoritative leader for the dog.

How much does a Small Swiss Hound (Lucerne Type) puppy cost?
Due to the breed’s rarity, finding a puppy outside of Switzerland or France can be very difficult. The price will depend on the pedigree, breeder, and demand. Generally, they can be quite pricey, and you’ll also need to factor in transportation and import costs.