Austrian Black and Tan Hound

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

Believed to be true descendents of Celtic hounds, the Austrian Black and Tan Hound (also known as Bracke, Austrian Smooth-haired Hound, Brandlbracke) is a hunting breed originating in Austria. This medium sized dog has broad skull with medium length ears, set high on head. Ears are long and flat. They eyes of this dog are clear dark brown. The muzzle is strong with with straight nasal bridge. Nose is black. The chest is broad and deep with slightly arched loin. The breed has strong legs that help the dog in galloping. Overall, the body is athletic, muscular and strong. Coat is short, smooth, close fitting, dense and with a silky sheen. As evident from breed name, the body colour is black with clearly defined light and dark fawn markings. Two fawn markings above the eyes must be present. The body height and weight for this breed is between 19-22 inches and 33-49 pounds respectively.

This breed is not recognized by AKC however FCI does recognize this as a pure breed dog.

Color

The colour of this breed is mainly black with small areas of fawn colouring, specially around the eyes.

Coat

The coat is short and smooth and it requires minimal grooming.

Personality

A popular hunting dog among hunters worldwide, the Austrian Black and Tan Hound has qualities that make it an excellent family pet besides being a very effective hunting dog. The dog has a keen sense of smell and can detect cold scents. This dog is very loyal, intelligent, easy to train and obedient to its owners. The dog has very gentle and kind attitude towards children and it is excellent with them. It also socializes well with other dogs but it needs to be trained NOT to chase smaller animals due to its inherent high prey drive. This dog is very affectionate with its family and makes a wonderful house pet. The Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a working dog and needs to do something. It can become bored if it has nothing to do. The dog is ideally suited to rural setting where it has large open spaces to run and play without any leash. The Austrian Black and Tan Hound makes a great family pet for active families or individuals.

Care

The short and smooth coat is easy to groom. Brushing the coat once in a while will keep it clean. Bathe this dog when necessary.

Training

The dog is very trainable with gentle yet firm training. The dog is obedient and responsive and will learn fast.

Activity

As with all working dogs, the Austrian Black and Tan Hound needs lots of physical and mental stimulation. It needs to be working or playing and is not a dog who would lay back and do nothing. The dog needs to be taken for daily walks. It will thrive if given some tasks to fulfill.