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Austrian Black and Tan Hound
Hound breed from Austria
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Austrian Black and Tan Hound
The Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a medium-sized scent hound with a smooth black coat and rich tan markings. It is described as intelligent, friendly, energetic, work-focused, independent, and loyal. The breed is known for its stamina and keen sense of smell, developed for tracking game in mountainous Alpine terrain. Estimated adult weight ranges from 22 to 27 kg for both sexes, and estimated height ranges from 48 to 56 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 14 years. Energy level is rated 4 out of 5, trainability 3 out of 5, grooming 2 out of 5, and shedding 3 out of 5. Suitability with children is rated 3 out of 5, with other dogs 3 out of 5, and for apartment living 2 out of 5. Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Austrian Black and Tan Hound at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginAustria
Lifespan12–14 years
Male weight22–27 kilogram
Female weight22–27 kilogram
Male height48–56 centimetre
Female height48–56 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Austrian Black and Tan Hound is believed to descend from ancient Celtic Hounds (Keltenbracke) and was developed over centuries in Austria from Celtic Hounds and local hunting breeds. Its modern form was established in the mid-19th century as a versatile and durable scenthound for tracking wounded game, primarily hare and fox, in high-altitude Alpine terrain. The breed's origins are in Austria, and it is classified in the Hound group. Recognition status varies by registry, meaning it is not universally recognized by all major kennel clubs.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
22–27 kilogramAdult weight48–56 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesSmoothCoat colorsBlack, TanRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Intelligentfriendlyenergeticwork-focusedindependentloyal
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Austrian Black and Tan Hound-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Austrian Black and Tan Hound puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight22–27 kilogramAdult female weight22–27 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of the Austrian Black and Tan Hound?
It is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult weight is 22 to 27 kg for both males and females, and estimated height is 48 to 56 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 14 years.
What is the temperament of this breed?
The breed is described as intelligent, friendly, energetic, work-focused, independent, and loyal. However, individual dogs may vary, and not every dog will display all these traits.
How much exercise does it need?
Energy level is rated 4 out of 5, indicating a high need for regular exercise. It was developed for tracking game in mountainous terrain, so it likely benefits from activities that engage its stamina and scenting abilities.
What are the grooming requirements?
Grooming is rated 2 out of 5, meaning low maintenance. It has a smooth coat that is black and tan. Shedding is rated 3 out of 5, so moderate shedding can be expected.
Is this breed suitable for families with children or other dogs?
Child suitability is rated 3 out of 5, and dog compatibility is also 3 out of 5, indicating average suitability. Individual temperament and socialization play a significant role.
Can it live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is rated 2 out of 5, suggesting it is not ideal for small spaces due to its energy level and need for exercise.
Where does the breed originate from?
The breed originates from Austria. It was developed from ancient Celtic Hounds and local hunting breeds, with its modern form established in the mid-19th century.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.