Are you considering bringing a Styrian Coarse-haired Hound into your family as a pet? If so, you are in for a treat! This breed, also known as the Steirische Rauhhaarbracke, is a medium-sized dog that has a lot to offer. Originally bred for hunting, they are known for their excellent sense of smell and tracking abilities. However, they also make great family pets due to their friendly and loyal nature. If you are looking for a dog that is both intelligent and active, the Styrian Coarse-haired Hound may be the perfect fit for you.
Breed Category: Hound
Country of Origin: Austria
Average Size:50-55 cm
Average Weight:18-27 kg
Average Life Span: 12-14 years
Grooming Requirements: Moderate
Exercise Requirements:High
History and Origin
The Styrian Coarse-haired Hound, also known as the Steirische Rauhhaarbracke, is a breed of dog that originated in Austria. This breed is known for its excellent hunting skills, particularly in tracking and hunting game in the mountainous regions of Styria. The breed has a long history, dating back to the 19th century, and has been recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) since 1955.
The Styrian Coarse-haired Hound is believed to have been developed by crossing various local hound breeds with other European hound breeds, such as the Hanoverian Hound and the Bavarian Mountain Hound. The breed was developed to be a versatile hunting dog that could track and hunt game in the rugged terrain of the Styrian mountains. The breed was also used for hunting wild boar, which was a popular sport in the region.
The Styrian Coarse-haired Hound is a medium-sized dog, with a muscular build and a thick, coarse coat that provides protection from the harsh mountain climate. The breed is known for its excellent sense of smell, which is essential for tracking game in the dense forests and rocky terrain of the Styrian mountains. The breed is also known for its stamina and endurance, which allows it to keep up with game over long distances.
The Styrian Coarse-haired Hound was first recognized as a distinct breed in the late 19th century, and was officially recognized by the Austrian Kennel Club in 1896. The breed quickly gained popularity among hunters in the region, and was soon exported to other parts of Europe. The breed was also used in the development of other hound breeds, such as the Bavarian Mountain Hound and the Hanoverian Hound.
During the early 20th century, the Styrian Coarse-haired Hound faced a decline in popularity, as hunting became less popular in the region. However, the breed was saved from extinction by a group of dedicated breeders, who worked to preserve the breed’s unique characteristics and hunting abilities. Today, the breed is still primarily used for hunting in Austria and other parts of Europe, but is also kept as a companion dog in some households.
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Size and Breed Category
The Styrian Coarse-haired Hound is a medium-sized breed of dog that originated in Austria. They are known for their distinctive appearance, with a thick, coarse coat that is typically black and tan in color. The breed is classified as a scent hound, which means they have a keen sense of smell and are often used for hunting and tracking. Styrian Coarse-haired Hounds are also known for their endurance and agility, making them well-suited for outdoor activities such as hiking and running.
In terms of size, the Styrian Coarse-haired Hound typically weighs between 18 and 27 kilograms and stands at a height of 47 to 55 centimeters at the shoulder. They are considered a medium-sized breed, with a muscular and athletic build. Styrian Coarse-haired Hounds are known for their friendly and loyal personalities, and they make excellent family pets for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. However, due to their strong hunting instincts, they may not be suitable for households with small pets such as cats or rabbits.
Fur Length and Colour
The fur of the Styrian Coarse-haired Hound is typically short and dense, with a coarse texture that provides excellent protection against harsh weather conditions. The fur is usually black or dark brown in color, with some dogs having white markings on their chest and feet. The fur on the ears and tail is slightly longer than the rest of the body, giving the dog a distinctive appearance. The fur is easy to maintain and requires minimal grooming, making it an ideal choice for owners who prefer low-maintenance pets.
The color of the fur on the Styrian Coarse-haired Hound can vary slightly depending on the individual dog, with some dogs having a reddish-brown or greyish-black coat. The fur is usually uniform in color, with no noticeable patterns or markings. The fur is also water-resistant, which makes it an excellent choice for hunting dogs that need to work in wet conditions. The fur on the dog’s face is short and smooth, with a slightly lighter color than the rest of the body. Overall, the fur of the Styrian Coarse-haired Hound is an important characteristic that contributes to the dog’s unique appearance and functional abilities.
Termperament and Trainability
The Styrian Coarse-haired Hound is a breed that is known for its high energy and lively temperament. They are a very active breed that requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. They are also known for their strong hunting instincts and are often used for hunting small game such as rabbits and foxes. Despite their high energy levels, they are also known for being very affectionate and loyal to their owners. They are a great choice for families who are looking for an active and playful companion.
In terms of trainability, the Styrian Coarse-haired Hound is a breed that is known for being intelligent and eager to please. They are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. However, they can also be quite stubborn at times and may require a firm and consistent approach to training. It is important to start training them from a young age and to socialize them well with other dogs and people. With the right training and socialization, the Styrian Coarse-haired Hound can make a great companion for families who are willing to put in the time and effort to train them properly.
Known Health Conditions
The Styrian Coarse-haired Hound is a breed of dog that is known to be prone to certain health conditions. One of the most common health issues that affect this breed is hip dysplasia. This condition occurs when the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to pain and discomfort for the dog. It can also cause arthritis and mobility issues later in life. To prevent hip dysplasia, it is important to ensure that the dog’s diet is balanced and that they get enough exercise. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can also help to catch the condition early and prevent it from worsening.
Another health condition that can affect the Styrian Coarse-haired Hound is ear infections. This breed has long, floppy ears that can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to infections. Symptoms of an ear infection include shaking the head, scratching at the ears, and a foul odor coming from the ears. To prevent ear infections, it is important to clean the dog’s ears regularly and keep them dry. If an infection does occur, it can usually be treated with medication prescribed by a veterinarian. It is important to catch and treat ear infections early to prevent them from causing permanent damage to the dog’s ears.
Openness to Strangers
The Styrian Coarse-haired Hound is a breed of dog that is known for its friendly and welcoming nature towards strangers. This breed is typically very sociable and enjoys meeting new people, making them a great choice for families or individuals who enjoy having guests over. They are also known for being very loyal to their owners, which can make them excellent guard dogs.
In terms of their behaviour towards strangers, the Styrian Coarse-haired Hound is generally very calm and relaxed. They are not typically aggressive towards people they do not know, and will often approach strangers with a wagging tail and a friendly demeanour. This breed is also known for being very intelligent and trainable, which can make them easy to socialise and teach good manners. Overall, the Styrian Coarse-haired Hound is a breed that is well-suited to living in a social environment and is generally very open to meeting new people.
Playfulness Level
The Styrian Coarse-haired 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.
The Playfulness Level of the Styrian Coarse-haired Hound is one of their defining characteristics. They are always looking for ways to have fun and are never content to just sit around. This breed is highly active and requires plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. They are great companions for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, running, or cycling. The Styrian Coarse-haired Hound’s playful nature is sure to bring joy and laughter to any household that welcomes them into their home.
Suitability as a Pet for Children
The Styrian Coarse-haired Hound is a medium-sized dog breed that is known for its friendly and loyal nature. They are highly energetic and require regular exercise, making them a great pet for active families with children. Their thick, coarse coat requires minimal grooming, which is ideal for busy households. They are also intelligent and easy to train, making them a good choice for families with young children who want to get involved in training their pet. Overall, the Styrian Coarse-haired Hound is a great pet for families with children who are looking for an active and loyal companion.
Exercise Needs
Styrian Coarse-haired Hounds are a highly active breed that require plenty of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. As a medium-sized breed, they need at least an hour of exercise every day, which can be achieved through a combination of walks, runs, and playtime. These dogs have a strong hunting instinct and love to explore their surroundings, so it’s important to provide them with plenty of opportunities to do so.
In addition to physical exercise, Styrian Coarse-haired Hounds also benefit from mental stimulation. These dogs are intelligent and curious, and they enjoy activities that challenge their minds. Puzzle toys, obedience training, and scent work are all great ways to keep these dogs mentally engaged. It’s also important to provide them with plenty of socialization opportunities, as they can become anxious or destructive if left alone for long periods of time. Overall, Styrian Coarse-haired Hounds are a high-energy breed that require an active and engaging lifestyle to thrive.
Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family
Styrian Coarse-haired Hounds have a reputation for being friendly towards other pets. They are known to be sociable and enjoy the company of other animals. However, as with any breed, it is important to introduce them to other pets slowly and carefully to ensure a positive relationship. It is also important to supervise interactions between pets to prevent any potential conflicts.
Housing Requirements
Styrian Coarse-haired Hounds require a living space that is large enough for them to move around freely. They are an active breed that needs plenty of exercise, so a house with a garden or access to outdoor space is ideal. The garden should be securely fenced to prevent the dog from escaping, as they have a strong hunting instinct and may chase after small animals. The hound’s living space should be kept clean and tidy, with regular cleaning and disinfecting to prevent the spread of disease. They also require a comfortable sleeping area, such as a dog bed or crate, where they can rest and relax after a long day of activity.
In terms of feeding, Styrian Coarse-haired Hounds require a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. They are a medium-sized breed, so their food portions should be appropriate for their size and activity level. It is important to monitor their weight and adjust their food intake accordingly to prevent obesity. Fresh water should be available at all times, and their food and water bowls should be cleaned regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria. Additionally, the hound’s coat requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and shiny. Brushing their coat once or twice a week will help to remove any loose hair and prevent matting.
Summary
The Styrian Coarse-haired Hound is a popular choice for those who enjoy hunting and outdoor activities. They are known for their excellent sense of smell and tracking abilities, making them ideal for hunting small game. However, due to their high energy levels and need for regular exercise, they may not be suitable for those who cannot provide them with enough physical activity. Additionally, their independent nature may make them challenging to train and require an experienced owner.
Styrian Coarse-haired Hound Dog FAQS
They are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with consistent and positive reinforcement.
Yes, they are generally good with children and make great playmates. However, supervision is always recommended.
They are generally healthy, but may be prone to hip dysplasia and ear infections.
Yes, they do shed moderately throughout the year.
They require at least 1-2 hours of exercise daily to stay healthy and happy.
They require weekly brushing and occasional bathing to maintain their coat’s health and appearance.
A Styrian Coarse-haired Hound can grow up to 50-55 cm in height.
Yes, Styrian Coarse-haired Hounds are known to be loyal and affectionate towards their families.
The average weight of a Styrian Coarse-haired Hound is between 18-27 kg.
The average lifespan of a Styrian Coarse-haired Hound is 12-14 years.
Helena is aSenior Associate Veterinarian at Kleintierpraxis Wandsbek and an avid dog breed author.