The Austrian Black and Austrian Black Dog Breed

Austria is not often heard of when it comes to breeds of dogs, but there is one breed in mind that is gaining more needed attention to dog owners. The Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a medium sized dog breed with a mysterious appearance that makes many animal lovers curious about the breeds temperament. These dogs have an ancestor in the ancient Celtic hounds who used to live along Ireland and were used for hunting, retrieving, and even racing.

Appearance

This hound is of medium height, with a very curious face to match their inquisitive personality. They have a smooth sheen coat that shines when the light glares off of it, and their legs and paws are long and large. The Austrian Hound has a long snout with a big nose, their ears are quite floppy and not usually docked. An interesting part of this hound is that their eyes are a soft glowing orange, a trait that gives them a peculiar beauty. Their coloring is just what their name states, they are almost all black, but they have tan around their mouths and the bottom of their legs.

Temperament

Being accustomed to working hard, this breed used to be used to hunt down foxes and rabbits up on the Austrian mountaintops. They still have this purpose today but not as drastic and abundant as in the 19th century. They make an ideal friend because of their strong and dependable hearts. Black and Tan Hounds may have been used for some vigorous hunting in the past, but now they are a trustworthy pet who are gentle with children and animals smaller then them. This dog almost seems like it wasn't made for hunting.

Grooming

Due to their soft and short coat of fur, they do not need too much brushing or even bathing. A bath should be every four weeks, while brushing their short coat should be at least once a week. Since their fur is black, dirt can show up much quicker on them, so it's a good idea to get them bathed once it starts showing.

Health

There is no known genetic disorders with this breed. They are a full bodied and briskly strong dog breed who would only go under sickness from a cold or flu. They have strong bones but they need to have enough calcium and protein so it will protect them from getting major bone problems later in their lives. They can live up to fourteen years on average.

Austrian Black and Tan Hounds are an almost perfect dog breed. They are great for families, they enjoy going out with their masters for exercise and even if they were bred for hunting, they can lose that trait when kept as a family pet.