The Austrian Black and Tan Hound originates from Austria, and many experts in the field consider it as being a true descendant of the Celtic Hound. It is an extremely popular hunting dog, being also considered a very hard working animal. The dog is specifically suitable for hunting on rough fields and in the mountains. This breed needs a lot of exercise and a real job it can perform; this is why this dog is not suited for apartment life or for homes with very small yards.
The Austrian Black and Tan Hound runs elegantly, and it has very keen sensorial perceptions (a keen nose, excellent vision). The dog is not suitable for city life, but it will make a perfect companion for people living on farms or for hunters dwellings. This is a medium size dog, with a long, supple body and firm, muscular legs. It has a dense and smooth coat, which requires regular brushing. Owners are advised to purchase a brush with firm bristles and use that for regular grooming.
One of the most important trademarks of the Austrian Black and Tan Hound is that it displays two fawn markings right above the eyes. According to the dog breeders associations, these markings must be present in pure breed dogs. The average height of the dog is between 48 and 54 cm, and the color of its coat is generally black displaying either light or dark fawn markings.
Although the Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a hunting dog, it is an extremely lovable and quite, affectionate pet. It is always willing to please its master, and it is not a dominant personality at all. The dog will get along exceptionally well with other animals in the household, but only if it is taught to socialize with them from an early age. Owners might notice that the dog will start chasing the smaller animals in the household, but this happens because it has a very strong hunting instinct. These hounds can adapt easily to all kinds of weather conditions, and they will never give up working hard even if it is raining or snowing outside.
Regarding health issues, this particular breed does not carry genetic health conditions. When the hounds get sick, it is important that the owner takes them for a consult to the vet. If they are properly fed and taken care of, these dogs will lead a healthy, happy and long life (they live on average between 12 and 14 years).
It is extremely important to remember that these dogs need regular exercise, because they are hunting dogs. If they are kept in small places, without enough room to chase and run around, they might develop serious behavioral issues.
They are intelligent dogs, which can be trained quite easily. However, in case the owner decides to keep such a dog as a pet, it must be continuously assigned agility tasks and it must get regular physical exercise. Owners who opt for the Austrian Black and Tan Hound as a pet do generally lead an overly active life, with plenty of physical exercise and enjoy sports such as cycling, jogging or hunting.
