Summary
The Coarse-haired Styrian Hound, also known as the Rauhhaarige Steirische Rauhhaarbracke, is a versatile hunting dog breed originating from Austria. It is known for its excellent tracking abilities, specifically in mountainous terrains.
This medium-sized breed has a distinctive harsh and wiry coat, protecting it from rough terrains and adverse weather conditions. The coat comes in various shades of red and comes with a dense undercoat. The Styrian Hound also has a muscular body with a well-proportioned build, giving it both strength and agility.
Known for its exemplary scenting capabilities, the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound is primarily used for tracking game. It has a keen sense of smell and remarkable endurance, making it an ideal choice for hunters. This breed is particularly skilled at tracking wounded game in challenging environments, such as forests and mountains.
Aside from its hunting skills, the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound is friendly, loyal, and sociable. It gets along well with other dogs and family members, including children. However, due to its high energy levels and natural hunting instincts, it requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and content.
Overall, the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound is a reliable and adaptable working dog with exceptional tracking abilities. It makes a great companion for active individuals or hunting enthusiasts who are looking for a versatile and steadfast breed.
Usage areas
The Coarse-haired Styrian Hound, also known as the Rauhhaarige Steirische Rauhhaarbracke or the Steirische Rauhhaarbracke, is a breed of hound that originated in the Styria region of Austria. This breed is primarily utilized for hunting, specifically in tracking and trailing game.
Due to its exceptional scenting abilities, the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound is particularly skilled in tracking and trailing wounded game, such as deer, boars, or foxes. The coarse and dense coat of this breed is well-suited for harsh weather conditions, making it an excellent hunting companion even in rough terrains and difficult climates.
These dogs are highly skilled in scenting and following trails, which is why they are highly valued by hunters for their ability to work independently and efficiently. Their strong endurance and persistence in tracking make them popular choices among avid hunters who require a diligent and reliable hunting partner.
Despite being primarily bred for hunting purposes, the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound also possesses wonderful qualities as a family pet. They are known to be devoted, intelligent, and trainable, making them suitable for active households that can provide them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
While the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound thrives in a hunting environment, it is important to note that they have strong instincts as a hunting breed. Therefore, early socialization is essential to help them adapt to different situations and ensure they become well-rounded companions.
If you are considering adding a Coarse-haired Styrian Hound to your family, it is crucial to understand their natural instincts and exercise requirements. These dogs are happiest and healthiest when they have an outlet for their energy through activities such as extensive walks, running, or engaging in dog sports.
Overall, the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound is a versatile and capable breed, excelling in hunting applications with their exceptional tracking abilities. However, they also possess the potential to be exceptional family pets when provided with the necessary physical and mental stimulation they require.
Mentality
The Coarse-haired Styrian Hound, also known as the Rauhhaariger Steirische Rauhhaarbracke or simply Styrian Hound, is a versatile and intelligent dog breed known for its strong work ethic and exceptional hunting skills. With a deep-rooted history as a scent hound, this breed has a distinctive mentality that sets it apart.
Mentally, the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound is highly driven, focused, and determined. It possesses a strong innate hunting instinct and a remarkable ability to track scents over long distances. This breed thrives when given a job to do and is happiest when engaged in activities that tap into its natural abilities.
With a sharp and attentive mind, the Styrian Hound is quick to learn and exhibit problem-solving skills. While they are generally intelligent, they can also display a level of independence and self-reliance. This trait requires an experienced and consistent handler who can provide firm but fair training methods.
Coarse-haired Styrian Hounds are known to be highly adaptable, capable of working in various terrains and weather conditions. They possess a keen sense of smell and endurance, making them particularly suitable for tracking and trailing game. Due to their working heritage, these dogs often thrive in environments that provide opportunities for physical and mental stimulation, such as hunting or scent work.
In terms of temperament, the Styrian Hound is typically cooperative, loyal, and affectionate towards its family. They tend to form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy being part of a pack. Despite being focused and driven during work, they can also be gentle, patient, and even-tempered in family settings.
It's important to note that the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound may have a strong prey drive, which means they may not be suitable for households with smaller pets, as they might be prone to chasing or potentially causing harm unintentionally. Early socialization and proper training are necessary to develop good behavior and ensure harmonious interactions both at home and in public.
Overall, the mentality of the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound makes it a dedicated and dependable working companion, capable of excelling in hunting and tracking activities. With the right environment and guidance, this breed can also make a loving and loyal family pet, offering both mental stimulation and unwavering companionship.
Health
The Coarse-haired Styrian Hound, also known as the Steirische Rauhhaarbracke, is a medium-sized breed that originated in Austria. This breed is known for its excellent hunting skills and its distinctive coarse, dense, and wiry coat, which provides protection in rugged terrain and harsh weather conditions.
In terms of health, the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound is generally a robust and healthy breed. However, like any dog breed, there are a few health conditions that potential owners should be aware of:
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Hip Dysplasia: This is a common orthopedic condition that affects many dog breeds, including the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound. It is characterized by an abnormal formation of the hip joint, which can lead to pain, stiffness, and eventually arthritis. Responsible breeders will conduct hip evaluations on their breeding dogs to help reduce the incidence of this condition.
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Ear Infections: Due to their long, floppy ears, Coarse-haired Styrian Hounds may be more prone to ear infections. It is essential to regularly clean and inspect their ears to prevent the buildup of wax, dirt, and moisture, which can lead to infections. Consulting with a veterinarian for proper ear care techniques and cleaning solutions is recommended.
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Bloating: Like many deep-chested breeds, the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound may be at a higher risk for developing gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV), commonly known as bloat. This is a life-threatening condition in which the stomach fills with air and rotates, causing bloating and potentially cutting off blood flow. Feeding them smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding strenuous exercise before and after meals can help reduce the risk of bloat.
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Eye Conditions: Some Coarse-haired Styrian Hounds may be susceptible to certain eye conditions, including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Regular eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist can help detect and manage these conditions.
It is important to note that responsible breeding practices, regular veterinary care, a balanced diet, proper exercise, and a safe environment are crucial for maintaining the overall health and well-being of any dog, including the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound.
Size and looks
The Coarse-haired Styrian Hound, also known as the Rauhhaariger Steirischer Rauhhaarbracke, is a medium-sized dog breed with a sturdy and athletic build. They typically have a height ranging between 18 to 21 inches (45 to 53 cm) at the shoulder and a weight of 35 to 50 pounds (16 to 23 kg).
As the name suggests, this breed has a coarse and wiry coat that provides protection in harsh weather conditions. Their double coat consists of a dense, rough outer coat and a softer undercoat. The coat color is predominantly black with tan markings on the muzzle, cheeks, chest, and legs.
The head of the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound is strongly built, featuring a broad skull with a moderately pronounced stop. They have medium-sized, dark eyes that display an intelligent and keen expression. Their medium-sized ears are set fairly high, hanging down and framing the face.
The body of this breed is well-proportioned and muscular, giving them a balanced and agile appearance. Their neck is moderately long and muscular, connecting to a deep chest and a level back. The tail is set high and carried straight or slightly curved when the dog is in motion.
Overall, the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound has a distinct and rugged appearance, reflecting its origins as a versatile hunting breed.
History
The Coarse-haired Styrian Hound, also known as the Rauhhaariger Steirische Rauhhaarbracke or the Steirische Rauhhaarbracke, is a hunting dog that originated in Austria. This breed has a long and rich history that spans several centuries.
The roots of the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound can be traced back to ancient times, where it was developed by crossbreeding local hounds with various breeds brought to the region by the Celts, Romans, and other settlers. The breed was primarily used for hunting small game like hares and foxes, as well as larger game such as deer and wild boar.
Throughout the years, the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound underwent further refinement, with breeders focusing on their hunting abilities and ruggedness in the challenging terrains of the Styrian mountains. These dogs were particularly valued for their exceptional tracking skills, endurance, and ability to work independently.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, the breed faced a decline in population due to changes in hunting practices and the increasing popularity of other dog breeds. However, dedicated breed enthusiasts, including gamekeepers and hunters, worked diligently to preserve and revive the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound.
In 1889, the breed standard was officially recognized, and efforts to establish a breed club and maintain a breeding program were initiated. The Coarse-haired Styrian Hound's popularity grew, especially among hunters who appreciated its versatility and reliability in the field.
Today, the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound remains a valued working dog, particularly in Austria and neighboring countries. Its distinctive coarse and wiry coat serves as protection against rough terrain and harsh weather conditions, making it ideal for hunting in the mountains. Additionally, their keen sense of smell and strong instincts continue to make them exceptional tracking and hunting companions.
The Coarse-haired Styrian Hound is recognized by various kennel clubs, including the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). While still relatively rare outside its country of origin, this breed continues to thrive among hunting enthusiasts who appreciate its unwavering commitment and exceptional abilities in the field.
Fur care
The Coarse-haired Styrian Hound is a breed of dog that has a medium-length, dense, and harsh coat. The fur is rough to the touch and provides good protection against the elements. The coat is typically a combination of black and tan colors, with a dark saddle pattern.
Despite its coarse texture, the fur of the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound does not require extensive grooming. Regular brushing with a firm bristle brush or a grooming glove is usually sufficient to remove loose hair and keep the coat looking neat. This breed is considered a low-maintenance breed in terms of its coat care.
Additionally, occasional bathing is recommended to keep the coat clean and free from dirt or odor. However, it is important not to over-bathe the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound, as excessive bathing can strip the natural oils from their coat and lead to dry skin issues.
Regular checks of the ears, teeth, and nails are also important for overall grooming and maintenance. Trimming the nails when necessary and monitoring the dog's dental health are important aspects of caring for the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound.
Overall, while the Coarse-haired Styrian Hound's coat may be coarse, it is relatively easy to manage with regular brushing and occasional bathing, making it a suitable breed for those looking for a low-maintenance dog in terms of fur care.
Other info
The Coarse-haired Styrian Hound is a highly energetic and active breed originating from Austria. Here are some interesting facts about this unique dog breed:
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Origin: The Coarse-haired Styrian Hound, also known as the Steirische Rauhhaarbracke in German, was developed in the Styria region of Austria in the 19th century. It was primarily bred for hunting purposes, particularly for tracking and trailing scent.
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Appearance: This breed has a distinct, coarse, wiry coat that provides protection against harsh weather conditions and underbrush in the hunting terrain. They have a well-muscled body with a compact and solid structure. The breed's facial expression is alert and intelligent.
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Size: Coarse-haired Styrian Hounds are medium-sized dogs. Males typically stand between 18-21 inches (46-53 cm) at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller, standing between 17-20 inches (43-51 cm). They usually weigh between 44-55 pounds (20-25 kg).
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Temperament: These dogs are known for their high energy levels and love for physical exercise. Coarse-haired Styrian Hounds are intelligent, independent, and have a strong prey drive. They are fiercely determined when on the hunt, but they can also be loyal and affectionate with their families.
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Training and Socialization: It is essential to provide early socialization and consistent training to Coarse-haired Styrian Hounds. They can be stubborn at times and benefit from positive reinforcement techniques. These dedicated hunters require plenty of mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom.
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Hunting Abilities: The Coarse-haired Styrian Hound's scenting ability is exceptional. They were initially bred for hunting game such as foxes, hares, and wild boar in the dense forests and mountainous terrains of the Styria region. This breed's keen sense of smell and relentless tracking skills make it an adept hunting companion.
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Living Environment: Due to their high energy levels, Coarse-haired Styrian Hounds are better suited to living in a rural or suburban environment with access to a securely fenced yard. They require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to be happy and content.
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Health: Generally, this breed is known to be quite healthy with no significant breed-specific health issues. However, like all dogs, regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and a balanced diet are essential to maintain their overall well-being.
Remember that Coarse-haired Styrian Hounds are hunting dogs by nature, and they thrive when given a chance to exercise their senses and instincts. If you're considering this breed, make sure that their unique needs align with your lifestyle and commitment to providing them with proper training, exercise, and mental enrichment.