The Kromfohrlander originated in Germany in the 1940s and is descended from a military mascot dog, "Original Peter", a dog found in France by American soldiers during World War 2. The breed was developed by Ilsa Schliefenbaum for over ten years, mainly by breeding terrier and griffon type breeds. The breed was recognized by FCI in 1955.
The Kromfohrlander comes in two coat varieties, wirehaired and smooth haired - the distinction mainly lies in the presence of a beard on the wirehaired variety - the smooth haired does in fact have long hair similar to a spaniel. The breed is of medium size at 38 - 46 cm (15 to 18 in) at the withers.
The temperament is described as lively, good-natured and intelligent. The bred is said to have a weak hunting instinct and to be a social breed that rarely strays from its owner. They may be reserved towards strangers.