Kromfohrländer

The Kromfohrländer is a German companion breed with an unusually well-documented origin — it descends from a single stray dog found by American soldiers during the Second World War.

History

A terrier-type stray adopted by US troops in France was brought to Germany, where it mated with a Wire Fox Terrier; a breeder was struck by the puppies and built a breed from them. It was recognised in 1955 and named after the district where she lived. It has been a companion breed from the first litter, with no working job behind it.

Temperament

The breed is known for being affectionate, lively and closely attached to its own family, friendly at home and reserved with strangers. It is sensitive and dislikes being alone.

Care and training

Exercise needs are moderate. Both coat varieties — smooth and rough — need only regular brushing, the rough one occasional trimming. It trains readily but responds badly to harshness.

Health

A very small founding population left several inherited conditions breeders test for, including a keratin disorder of the footpads and an epilepsy-like syndrome. These are known patterns for the breed and a matter for a breeder and a vet; the measured facts are in the panel.