Dogs of Austria
Most of the dogs from Austria are hunting hounds, including the Alpine Dachsbracke, as well as the Austrian Black and Tan, Styrian coarse-haired, and Tyrolean Hound. Also among the dogs of Austria is the Austrian Pinscher, which was commonly used on farms.The history of the Austrian dogs is old and rich. It is believed that the Austrian Black and Tan, as well as the Tyrolean Hound are both decedents of the Celtic hounds. These dogs were greatly respected by warrior and royalty alike. They had an immense amount of loyalty and courage, and often used on the hunt. Many Celtic myths and legends mention these hounds even today. The Celtic hounds were even used in battle as war dogs. Eventually the bloodline found its way into these two Austrian dog breeds.
The Austrian dog breeds are not as well known outside of their homeland as some of the other European breeds. Although they are all recognized by the Federation Cynologique International (FCI), an internationally recognized Kennel Club, only the Alpine Dachsbracke and the Austrian Pinscher are recognized in the United States under the United Kennel Club (UKC). The other Austrian dogs have not yet been recognized.
Like many European countries, hunting is quite popular, and so are the dogs used for the sport. The Alpine Dachsbracke was once a favorite of the German royalty and is used to track a range of prey. The Styrian coarse-haired, Austrian Black and Tan, and Tyrolean Hound are all included in a group known as the Grand Brackes. These dogs were developed to hunt in the high altitudes of the mountainous areas in Austria.
