Discover Everything About German Quail Dog
Learn about the breed characteristics, health, history, and find trusted breeders
At a glance
German Quail Dog overview
The essentials — key facts, traits, and health priorities — before you dive deeper.
Health grade
Relative to other breeds
The Deutscher Wachtelhund receives a grade of B. Hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED) are well-controlled in this robust hunting breed through mandatory health tests, but you should still actively ask the breeder about these results before purchasing a puppy. Additionally, epilepsy can occur in the breed, which is why buyers should specifically inquire about the health history of the parent dogs.
Lifespan
12–14 yrs
Height
45–54 cm
Weight
18–25 kg
Practical
- Puppy price: 1,200 – 2,500 €
- Coat: Dense, medium length, undercoat present
- Origin: Germany
Typical coat colors
- Brown
- chocolate or roan (brown
- white hair mixed)
Temperament
Daily life
What matters most
Especially with a German Quail Dog, choosing the right breeder is the single most important decision you'll make. Serious breeders consistently test the parents for inherited conditions, prioritize healthy early socialization, and stay accountable long after handover. A cheap puppy without health screening tends to become the most expensive dog later on.
See HonestDog breeder standards →Is the German Quail Dog right for you?
The Deutscher Wachtelhund is a robust, passionate working dog—a classic Stöberhund (flushing dog) bred almost exclusively by hunters for hunters to flush out game in dense forests and track with a loud bay.
Perfect for you if:
- You are an active hunter or forester looking for an untiring companion for flushing and blood tracking work in the woods.
- You live in a rural area, ideally with a large, securely fenced property right next to nature.
- You are a confident and consistent leader, as his high level of hunting independence requires clear rules from day one.
- You are looking for a dog that is a balanced, people-oriented family dog at home after a hard day's work in the hunting grounds.
Less ideal if:
- You are just looking for an athletic companion for jogging—he was bred to follow tracks, not to mindlessly trot along beside you.
- You live in a densely populated area or city where hunting by scent and constant wildlife smells will become a source of permanent stress for both of you.
- You expect him to stay on the path by himself during forest walks—his nose will instinctively pull him deep into the undergrowth.
The real vibes check
A Wachtelhund is not a hobby, but a professional partner. When he catches a fresh scent in the undergrowth, his brain switches into work mode—and at that moment, you are merely a bystander. If he gets this hunting outlet, you will have a deeply relaxed cuddler on the sofa in the evening; if you deny him his purpose, he will find his own territory.
Breed Profile
The German Wachtelhund is a medium-sized, powerfully built dog that is bursting with energy. Its medium-length, dense fur with ample undercoat, which can vary in shades of brown from chocolate to roan, offers it protection from harsh weather and thorny undergrowth. This fact, combined with its strong legs and well-developed chest, makes it a resilient and versatile working dog, able to work efficiently in both the field and the water. The German Wachtelhund belongs to FCI Group 8, the retrieving, searching and water dogs. This breed does not differentiate between performance and show lines, meaning that all German Wachtelhunds, regardless of whether they are kept for hunting or as pets, should share the same physical characteristics and temperament.
| Height | 45 - 52 cm (Female), 48 - 54 cm (Male) |
| Weight | 18 - 25 kg (Female), 18 - 25 kg (Male) |
| Life Expectancy | 12 - 14 years |
| Character | Loyal, energetic, learnable |
| Coat | Dense, medium length, undercoat present |
| Coat Color | Brown, chocolate or roan (brown and white hair mixed) |
| Price | 1200 - 2500 € |
Health
Solid
Health grade
The Deutscher Wachtelhund receives a grade of B. Hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED) are well-controlled in this robust hunting breed through mandatory health tests, but you should still actively ask the breeder about these results before purchasing a puppy. Additionally, epilepsy can occur in the breed, which is why buyers should specifically inquire about the health history of the parent dogs.
Grade is relative to other breeds — AI-generated by our veterinary-genetics model.
In daily life this can mean
You should regularly check and clean his heavy, floppy ears, ensure he is raised in a way that is gentle on his joints, and always keep a close eye on his eyes and behavior.
The breeder's role
Reputable breeders have the parents' hips, elbows, and eyes tested, pay attention to an anatomically healthy ear shape, and know their lines thoroughly to reduce the risks of neurological diseases.
Frequently asked questions about the German Quail Dog
Is a German Quail Dog the right dog for me?
The German Quail Dog is an active dog that needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Research the temperament, grooming needs, and space requirements before deciding.
How long does a German Quail Dog live?
The average life expectancy of a German Quail Dog is 12-14 years. With proper care and regular vet visits, your dog can live a long, healthy life.
How much grooming does a German Quail Dog need?
German Quail Dog grooming requirements include regular brushing, nail trimming, and dental care. HonestDog provides detailed grooming tips for every breed.
Is a German Quail Dog good for families with children?
The German Quail Dog can be a great family dog. Proper training and socialization are key. HonestDog provides family suitability information for every breed.
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Guides & Resources
Guides, checklists, and breed profiles — so you can make a well-informed decision.