The Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a scenthound originally used to track wounded game and has been prized for his keen sense of smell. He is able to work both in flat terrain as well as mountainous areas, an adaptability that has given him popularity in Austria although he is relatively unknown here in the United States. He is thought to have been developed in the mid-19th century and may be a descendant of the Celtic Hound.
Austrian Black and Tans have easygoing personalities and can make great family pets in the right circumstances. A “melodic” hound… like many scenthounds they do enjoy howling and as such might do best in more rural-type settings. Otherwise they can end up annoying neighbors! Homes out in the country also afford plenty of space to run, which is something that these hounds thrive on. The best homes are ones in which they can be taken hunting, although even without this outlet many will attempt to “hunt” on their own property. You can take the hunting dog out of the hunt, but you can’t take the hunt out of the hunting dog! It is for this reason that most members of the breed are hunting dogs first and foremost, and companions second.
While the Black and Tan Hound can get along well with children as well as other dogs, he does tend to chase small pets. Other less-than-desirable traits include drooling and a high tendency to shed. Combine this with the fact that his ears need to be checked and cleaned on a regular basis (anywhere from once a week to once a day), and one can see that he is not the most ideal dog for every owner. It’s so important to research before obtaining a dog, and the Black and Tan Hound is no exception!
Black and Tan Hounds also need regular, daily exercise. They have an immense stamina and aren’t easily tired out, so an owner must be athletic enough to keep up! Furthermore, daily walks are not enough. Jogging is a much better activity, combined with plenty of time to run and roam in a large fenced area. In addition, endeavors that stimulate both the mind as well as the body are paramount to keeping this hound healthy and happy!
Austrian Black and Tans can prove difficult to train, even for experienced trainers and owners. While they do have a great desire to work, they primary think that work equates to hunting and thus obedience training can seem pointless to many. This said, they do have an agreeable nature and can be taught if the trainer is persistent and consistent enough. Be prepared to be firm when needed, yet employ plenty of care and reinforcement for good behavior. These hounds are more likely to work with those whom they respect and have developed a bond with. Always remember that distractions which trigger their hunt drive will almost always trump their desire to follow commands. This is not to say that a hound cannot work when distractions are present – only that a trainer must start slow and gradually introduce the distractions through time, only after the hound has mastered the step before.
The Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a medium sized breed, with medium-length hanging ears that round at the tips. As evidenced by his name, the color must always be black with tan markings. Tan must be appear particularly above the eyes but also on the legs, face and tail. The color and pattern are very important and distinctive features of the breed, and any variation is an instant disqualification. The smooth and shiny coat, combined with dark brown eyes, gives this hound a pleasing and gentle appearance.
Photo by Steffen Heinz (Caronna)