The Kromfohrländer, popularly known as Kromi, is a long-lived dog breed from Germany specifically developed to be a companion dog.
In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about the Kromfohrländer breed, from their history to temperament to health.
History of the Kromfohrländer Breed
The Kromfohrländer is a relatively new breed whose history starts in 1945 in Germany. The breed’s unique name, which is difficult to pronounce, stems from the dog’s appearance, which features tufts of hair on its face.
Origins and Development
The Kromfohrländer was born in 1945 when World War II ended and American soldier troops found a stray dog in France and brought it to Germany. In Germany, it was adopted by the musician Ilsa Schleifenbaum and named Peter.
Peter accidentally mated with a neighbor Fox Terrier and produced a litter of cute-looking dogs with similar appearance. Over the next 10 years, she perfected the breed and the Kromfohrländer received full recognition in 1955.
Recognition by Kennel Clubs
The Kromfohrländer has, since then, gained popularity. The American Kennel Club accepted the breed in its Foundation Stock Service in 2015, making it eligible for show events and competitions.
Despite the breed’s growing popularity, the Kromfohrländer remains a relatively rare dog, especially outside its native Germany and some neighboring European countries.
Physical Characteristics
Size and Weight
Kromfohrländers typically weigh between 20 and 35 pounds and stand around 15 to 18 inches tall. It has a sturdy and muscular build that allows it to keep up with an active lifestyle.
Coat Types and Colors
The Kromfohrländer’s coat comes in two different types:
- Rough (Rauhaar): Has a distinct beard and makes the dog look like a terrier
- Smooth (Glatthaar): Has long furnishings and makes the dog look like a spaniel
The coat of the Kromfohrländer’s is available in two color combinations:
- White & brown
- White & tan
Distinctive Features
In addition to its tufts of facial hair, the Kromfohrländer has other distinctive features, such as long, floppy ears that hang on either side of the face and a medium-length tail. Breed members have a unique smile giving them an approachable appearance.
Personality and Temperament
Kromfohrländers are known for their friendly and loyal personality. They are affectionate and love to be around people. Despite the terrier heritage, they do not have a prey drive and are excellent with kids of all ages.
General Disposition
Kromfohrländers are generally well-behaved and have a calm demeanor. They are not known to be aggressive or overly excitable, which makes them great for families with children.
They are also very adaptable and can live in both apartments and houses with yards. However, they thrive in a home environment where they can be close to their humans, so they shouldn’t be left alone for long periods.
Kromfohrländers have a natural instinct to dig and may do so in your yard or garden if not given an appropriate outlet. Providing a designated digging area can help satisfy their instinct while protecting your landscaping.
Intelligence and Trainability
Kromfohrländers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their humans. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods and are quick learners. They are also very food-motivated, which can make training easier.
However, it’s important to note that they can be stubborn at times. Kromfohrländers may try to test their boundaries and see what they can get away with. Consistency and patience are key when training members of this breed.
Socialization and Interaction with Other Animals
Kromfohrländers are social dogs that typically get along well with other animals, including other dogs and cats. However, it’s important to socialize them early on to ensure they develop good social skills.
This means exposing them to a variety of people, animals, and environments from a young age. Kromfohrländers can be wary of strangers but can be trained to be more accepting of newcomers over time.
It’s important to note that they have a strong protective instinct and may bark to alert their humans of potential threats. Proper training can help them distinguish between real threats and harmless situations.
Health and Lifespan
Like all dog breeds, Kromfohrländers are prone to certain health issues. However, with proper care and regular veterinary checkups, they can live long and healthy lives.
Common Health Issues
Kromfohrländers are generally healthy dogs, but there are a few health issues to watch out for, such as:
- Canine Footpad Hyperkeratosis: A condition in which the skin on the footpads thickens or forms new growths, which is uncomfortable
- Von Willebrand’s Disease: A blood clotting disorder that inhibits clot formation and increases the risk of bleeding even with small injuries
Preventative Care and Regular Checkups
To keep your Kromfohrländer healthy, it’s important to provide proper preventative care, including regular vaccinations and parasite control. Additionally, frequent veterinary checkups can help catch any potential health issues early on.
Expected Lifespan
A healthy Kromfohrländer can live anywhere from 13 to 15 years. Proper care, including a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and preventative care, can help ensure a long and happy life for your furry friend.
Conclusion
As you can see, the Kromfohrländer is a unique and fascinating breed that makes a great addition to any family. It has a friendly and affectionate nature and its distinctive appearance is sure to turn heads.
If you’re considering getting a Kromfohrländer, make sure to provide proper care and training to ensure they live a long, happy life. Also, research the dog and find a trustworthy breeder.
