Austrian Black and Tan Hound Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Breeders 

Are you considering bringing an Austrian Black and Tan Hound into your home as your new furry companion? If so, you may be interested to know that this breed is known for their loyalty, intelligence, and hunting abilities. With their sleek black and tan coat and muscular build, they are both beautiful and strong. However, before making a decision, it is important to know more about their personality, exercise needs, and potential health issues. In this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to determine if the Austrian Black and Tan Hound is the right breed for you.

Breed Category: Hound
Country of Origin: Austria
Average Size:50-56 cm (at the shoulder)
Average Weight:18-27 kg
Average Life Span: 12-14 years
Grooming Requirements: Low
Exercise Requirements:High

History and Origin

The Austrian Black and Tan Hound, also known as the Brandlbracke, is a breed of dog that originated in Austria. The breed is known for its exceptional hunting skills, particularly in tracking and trailing game. The breed has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the Middle Ages.

The origins of the Austrian Black and Tan Hound can be traced back to the ancient Celtic hounds that were used for hunting. These dogs were bred with other breeds, including the Bloodhound and the Greyhound, to create a breed that was well-suited for hunting in the rugged terrain of the Austrian Alps. The breed was first mentioned in written records in the 16th century, and it quickly became popular among hunters in Austria.

The Austrian Black and Tan Hound was originally bred for hunting large game, such as deer and wild boar. The breed was also used for tracking and trailing smaller game, such as rabbits and foxes. The breed’s exceptional sense of smell and its ability to track game over long distances made it a valuable asset to hunters.

During the 19th century, the Austrian Black and Tan Hound was further developed by breeders who were looking to improve the breed’s hunting abilities. The breed was crossed with other breeds, including the Hanoverian Scenthound and the Bavarian Mountain Hound, to create a dog that was even more skilled at tracking and trailing game.

The Austrian Black and Tan Hound was recognized as a breed by the Austrian Kennel Club in 1907. The breed was also recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1955. Today, the breed is still used for hunting in Austria and other parts of Europe.

The Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a medium-sized dog that typically weighs between 40 and 60 pounds. The breed has a short, dense coat that is black with tan markings. The breed is known for its friendly and loyal temperament, and it makes an excellent family pet for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

In conclusion, the Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a breed of dog that has a long and fascinating history. The breed’s exceptional hunting skills and its ability to track and trail game over long distances have made it a valuable asset to hunters for centuries. Today, the breed is still

Size and Breed Category

The Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a medium-sized breed of dog that is known for its exceptional hunting skills. This breed typically stands between 48-56 cm tall at the shoulder and weighs between 18-27 kg. They have a muscular build with a broad chest and a long, straight tail. The Austrian Black and Tan Hound has a short, dense coat that is black with tan markings on the legs, chest, and face. They have a distinctive, elongated head with long, drooping ears that hang close to their cheeks. This breed is known for its excellent sense of smell and is often used for tracking game in the mountains.

The Austrian Black and Tan Hound is classified as a scent hound and is known for its exceptional tracking abilities. This breed is highly intelligent and has a strong work ethic, making them an excellent choice for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. They are also known for their loyalty and affectionate nature, making them a great family pet. However, due to their high energy levels and strong hunting instincts, they require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Overall, the Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a versatile and hardworking breed that is well-suited for a variety of outdoor activities.

Fur Length and Colour

The fur of the Austrian Black and Tan Hound is short and dense, providing excellent protection against harsh weather conditions. The coat is predominantly black with tan markings on the muzzle, eyebrows, chest, legs, and under the tail. The tan markings are usually sharp and well-defined, creating a striking contrast against the black background. The fur on the ears is also tan, and it is usually longer and softer than the rest of the coat. The fur on the tail is short and black, with a slight curve towards the end. Overall, the fur of the Austrian Black and Tan Hound is sleek, shiny, and easy to maintain.

The colour of the Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a defining characteristic of the breed. The black and tan colouration is a result of a dominant gene that controls the distribution of pigments in the fur. The black pigment is concentrated on the back, sides, and legs, while the tan pigment is restricted to specific areas. The tan markings are usually symmetrical, with a V-shaped pattern on the chest and a line on the forehead. The intensity of the tan colour can vary from light to dark, depending on the individual dog. The black and tan colouration is a classic look that gives the Austrian Black and Tan Hound a regal and elegant appearance.

Termperament and Trainability

Austrian Black and Tan Hounds are known for their high energy levels and strong hunting instincts. They are a breed that requires a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. They are also very intelligent and trainable, making them a popular choice for hunting and tracking activities. However, their strong prey drive can make them difficult to train for obedience and other non-hunting related activities. It is important for owners to establish themselves as the pack leader and provide consistent training and socialization from a young age to ensure a well-behaved and well-adjusted dog.

In terms of temperament, Austrian Black and Tan Hounds are typically friendly and affectionate with their families. They are loyal and protective, making them good watchdogs. However, they can be reserved or even aloof with strangers, which is a trait that is common among many hunting breeds. They are also known for their vocal nature and can be quite loud when they are excited or on the hunt. This can be a challenge for owners who live in close proximity to neighbors or in areas with noise restrictions. Overall, the Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a breed that requires an experienced owner who is willing to provide the necessary exercise, training, and socialization to ensure a happy and well-adjusted dog.

Known Health Conditions

Austrian Black and Tan Hounds are prone to certain health conditions that owners should be aware of. One of the most common issues is hip dysplasia, which is a genetic condition that affects the hip joint. This can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis in the affected joint. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help prevent hip dysplasia, but it is important to have your dog screened for this condition before breeding or adopting. Another health concern for this breed is ear infections, which can be caused by their long, floppy ears that trap moisture and bacteria. Regular cleaning and grooming of the ears can help prevent infections, but if left untreated, they can lead to more serious issues such as hearing loss or even facial paralysis.

Another health condition that can affect Austrian Black and Tan Hounds is bloat, also known as gastric torsion. This is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood flow to the organs. Symptoms include restlessness, drooling, and a distended abdomen. Immediate veterinary attention is necessary to save the dog’s life. Other health concerns for this breed include eye problems such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, as well as skin allergies and thyroid issues. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help catch these conditions early and provide the best possible treatment options.

Openness to Strangers

Austrian Black and Tan Hounds are known for their friendly and welcoming nature towards strangers. They are a breed that is naturally curious and loves to explore their surroundings. When encountering new people, they are quick to approach and greet them with a wagging tail and a friendly demeanor. This makes them great companions for families with children or those who frequently have guests over. Their openness to strangers also makes them excellent candidates for therapy or service dog work, as they are able to adapt to new environments and people with ease. Overall, the Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a breed that is known for their sociable and outgoing personality.

In addition to their friendly nature, Austrian Black and Tan Hounds are also known for their intelligence and trainability. They are a breed that is eager to please their owners and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. This makes them easy to train and a great choice for first-time dog owners. Their intelligence also makes them excellent hunting dogs, as they are able to quickly learn and follow commands in the field. Overall, the Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a breed that is not only friendly and welcoming towards strangers, but also highly trainable and intelligent.

Playfulness Level

The Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a highly energetic and playful breed of dog. They are known for their love of play and their ability to keep their owners entertained for hours on end. This breed is always up for a game of fetch or a run around the park, and they are sure to keep their owners on their toes. Their playful nature makes them a great choice for families with children, as they are always eager to join in on the fun.

In addition to their love of play, the Austrian Black and Tan Hound is also a very social breed. They thrive on human interaction and love nothing more than spending time with their owners. This makes them a great choice for families who are looking for a loyal and affectionate companion. They are also known for their intelligence and their ability to learn quickly, which makes them a great choice for owners who are looking for a dog that is easy to train. Overall, the Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a fun-loving and social breed that is sure to bring joy and laughter to any household.

Suitability as a Pet for Children

Austrian Black and Tan Hounds have a friendly and loyal temperament, making them a great choice as a pet for children. They are highly active and require regular exercise, which can be a great way for children to stay active and engaged with their pet. However, their high energy levels may not be suitable for families with very young children or those who are unable to provide enough exercise. Additionally, their strong hunting instincts may make them unsuitable for households with smaller pets. Overall, the Austrian Black and Tan Hound can make a great pet for families with active children who are able to provide the necessary exercise and attention.

Exercise Needs

Austrian Black and Tan Hounds require a significant amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. As a medium-sized breed, they need at least one hour of daily exercise, which can be achieved through long walks, runs, or hikes. These dogs have a strong hunting instinct, so it is important to keep them on a leash or in a secure area to prevent them from chasing after small animals. Additionally, providing them with mental stimulation through games and training sessions can help prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

It is important to note that Austrian Black and Tan Hounds are not suitable for apartment living or homes without access to a yard or outdoor space. They thrive in homes with active owners who can provide them with the necessary exercise and attention. These dogs are also known for their endurance and stamina, making them great companions for outdoor activities such as hiking and running. Overall, providing these dogs with regular exercise and mental stimulation is crucial for their overall well-being.

Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family

Austrian Black and Tan Hounds have a strong hunting instinct and are often used for tracking game. They are known to be friendly and affectionate towards their owners, but their interactions with other pets can vary. Some individuals may get along well with other dogs and cats, while others may display aggression towards them. It is important to socialize them from a young age and supervise their interactions with other animals.

Housing Requirements

Austrian Black and Tan Hounds require a spacious living environment that allows them to move around freely. They are an active breed that needs plenty of exercise, so a large garden or access to open spaces is essential. A secure fence is also necessary as they have a strong hunting instinct and may chase after small animals. The hound’s coat is short and dense, so they can tolerate cooler temperatures, but they should not be left outside for extended periods in cold weather. A warm, dry shelter should be provided for them to rest in.

In terms of nutrition, the Austrian Black and Tan Hound requires a balanced diet that meets their energy needs. They are prone to obesity, so it is important to monitor their food intake and provide regular exercise. Fresh water should be available at all times, and their feeding bowls should be cleaned regularly to prevent the spread of bacteria. The breed is generally healthy, but regular check-ups with a veterinarian are recommended to ensure their overall well-being.

Summary

The Austrian Black and Tan Hound has a strong hunting instinct and requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They are loyal and affectionate towards their owners but can be reserved with strangers. Due to their high energy levels and need for space, they may not be suitable for apartment living. Proper training and socialization are important for this breed to prevent any potential behavioral issues. Overall, the Austrian Black and Tan Hound can make a great pet for active and experienced owners who are willing to provide them with the necessary care and attention.

Austrian Black and Tan Hound Dog FAQS