Austrian Black and Tan Hound Basics

If you are looking for an energetic hound that loves to track and hunt, look no further than the Austrian Black and Tan Hound. Known for his keen sense of smell and his agreeable temperament, this breed is a hunter’s dream. Though these dogs can be very affectionate with family and they generally get along well with other dogs, they are not intended to be family pets. The best use for these dogs is tracking or hunting game, as long as they get plenty of human contact as well.

Known for his keen sense of smell and his agreeable temperament, the Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a hunter’s dream.

Origin

The Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a medium-sized breed developed in Austria. Though the exact origins of the breed remain unknown, it is commonly thought to be the descendant of Celtic hounds, developed sometime during the 19th century. Used primarily for tracking wounded game in high altitudes, the Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a skilled hunter and tracker. Because the breed was developed exclusively for this purpose, they are generally not recommended as family pets. They do, however, require regular human contact and they can get along with other dogs.

Pedigree

The modern Austrian Black and Tan Hound is thought to be descendant from various ancient Celtic hounds, though the exact details of its origin are unknown.

Food/Diet

As a medium-sized dog, the Austrian Black and Tan Hound should be fed a high-quality dry food formulated for adult dogs. Because the breed was developed for hunting, he may do well on an active or working breed formula as long as you are careful about overfeeding to prevent obesity.

The Austrian Black and Tan Hound is an intelligent breed that usually responds well to training.

Training

The Austrian Black and Tan Hound is an intelligent breed that usually responds very well to training. These dogs are designed to hunt and track, so it is important to start training from a young age. This breed is often considered to be more trainable than other hound breeds and they are naturally very obedient. You still need to exercise a firm and consistent hand in training, but the Austrian Black and Tan Hound may learn more quickly than other hound breeds.

Weight

The Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a medium-sized dog, standing between 19 to 22 inches tall and weighing 35 to 50 pounds at maturity. Females of the breed tend to be a little smaller, standing 19 to 21 inches tall, but both breeds usually stay within the same weight range.

Temperament/Behavior

The Austrian Black and Tan Hound was bred exclusively for hunting and tracking, so there is little information available about the breed’s temperament outside of a working environment. Generally speaking, these dogs are good-tempered and friendly – they can also be quite affectionate with their owners. This breed can also be socialized to children and they do tend to enjoy the company of other dogs. Because they are a hunting breed, however, they may not be the best choice for homes with other pets such as cats. Whether you plan to keep your Austrian Black and Tan Hound for hunting or as a family pet, early socialization and training are very important.

Common Health Problems

There is not a lot of information available about the health problems to which the Austrian Black and Tan Hound may be prone, particularly for genetic conditions. Generally speaking, the breed may be prone to the same conditions as other dogs of its size such as elbow and hip dysplasia, ear infections, and demodectic mange.

Life Expectancy

The average lifespan for the Austrian Black and Tan Hound is thought to be about 12 to 15 years which is about average for a breed of its size.

Exercise Requirements

As a hunting breed, the Austrian Black and Tan Hound has very high exercise requirements. These dogs will not be satisfied with a short daily walk – they need a long, vigorous walk and plenty of time to run and play in a fenced yard. Hunting training can also provide additional exercise.

The Austrian Black and Tan Hound was bred exclusively for hunting and tracking.

AKC

The Austrian Black and Tan Hound is not currently recognized by the AKC but he is recognized by the FCI and the UKC. The FCI classifies him in Group 6 as a Scenthound and the UKC as a Scenthound.

Coat

The Austrian Black and Tan Hound has the typical hound coat – it is short, close-lying, and smooth with a distinct sheen to it. The density of the coat is enough to protect the dog from cold weather in high altitudes. As the name suggests, black and tan are the main colors for this breed, though the location and size of the tan markings may vary.

Puppies

The average litter size for the Austrian Black and Tan Hound is 3 to 8 puppies, though litters with up to 12 puppies are not uncommon. Because this breed is almost exclusively used for hunting, it is important to start socialization and training at a very early age. If you plan to keep your dog with other dogs, make sure they are raised together.

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