Austrian Black and Tan Hound

Scenthound Group

The goals and purposes of this breed standard include: to furnish guidelines for breeders who wish to maintain the quality of their breed and to improve it; to advance this breed to a state of similarity throughout the world; and to act as a guide for judges.

Breeders and judges have the responsibility to avoid any conditions or exaggerations that are detrimental to the health, welfare, essence and soundness of this breed, and must take the responsibility to see that these are not perpetuated.

Any departure from the following should be considered a fault, and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog and on the dog’s ability to perform its traditional work.

History

The Austrian Black and Tan Hound appears to be a true descendant of the ancient Celtic Hound. They are a universally popular hunting dog, prized for their ability to do heavy work on high mountains, as well as on flat country.

The Austrian Black and Tan Hound was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 2006.

General Appearance

Medium sized, black and tan, smooth coated hound with a fairly long cast, supple body.

Characteristics

The breed has a sensitive nose for tracking game, and is willing and agreeable.

Head

SKULL

The skull is broad, with a barely defined occiput.

MUZZLE

The muzzle is strong, with a straight nasal bridge, and well developed, close fitting, darkly pigmented lips.

TEETH

The Austrian Black and Tan Hound has a complete set of evenly spaced, white teeth meeting in a scissors bite. The absence of two premolars is tolerated.

Disqualifications: Undershot or overshot bite.

NOSE

Black.

EYES

Clear, and dark brown.

EARS

Medium in length, set on high, not too broad, rounded at the tips. The ears hang flatly.

Neck

Medium length, very strong, and free of dewlap.

Forequarters

The shoulders are muscular and well laid back.

FORELEGS

Straight and strong.

Body

The chest is broad and deep. The withers are well defined, and the back is long. The loin is slightly arched, and the croup falls away slightly.

Hindquarters

The hindquarters are well angulated.

HIND LEGS

The upper thighs are slim, moderately developed, and long.

Feet

Strong and round, with tight toes and black nails.

Tail

Long, tapering gradually, and slightly bent. There is coarse hair on the underside but no brush.

Coat

Short, smooth, close fitting, dense, and with a silky sheen.

Color

Black, with small, clearly defined light to dark fawn markings. The two fawn markings above the eyes must be present.

Disqualifications: Any color or pattern other than described. Lack of well defined fawn markings above the eyes on an otherwise black and tan dog.

Height

Height at the withers is 19 to 22 inches.

Gait

Ground covering, and elegant.

Disqualifications

(A dog with a Disqualification must not be considered for placement in a conformation event, and must be reported to UKC.)
Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid.
Viciousness or extreme shyness.
Albinism.
Undershot or overshot bite.
Any color or pattern other than described.
Lack of well defined fawn markings above the eyes on an otherwise black and tan dog.