Austrian Black and Tan Hound

Also called Brandlbracke, Vieräugl, Österreichische Bracke, Carinthian Hound

Checked 2026-09-30 · 2 sources

A pleasant, affectionate hound with a keen sense of smell.

Key facts
Size	Medium
Weight	15 to 22 kg (33 to 49 lb)1
Height	48 to 56 cm (19 to 22 in)males 50 to 56 cm, females 48 to 54 cm2 1
Lifespan	12 to 14 years1
Coat	Smooth short coat
Origin	Austria.2 1
Group	FCI group 6

High energy Low grooming

excellent nose

good-natured and agreeable

graceful, enduring runner

2 1

what they are likeAustrian Black and Tan Hound temperament

A pleasant, affectionate hound with a keen sense of smell. It follows a trail willingly and gives voice while it works.2 1

how to spot oneAustrian Black and Tan Hound coat and colours

smooth short coat

An elegant, athletic hound with a close, dense coat around 2 cm long that has a silky shine.2 1

Coloursblack with light to dark fawn markingsfawn spots above the eyes (required)2 1

a typical week and yearThe care rhythm

A typical home-care rhythm for an Austrian Black and Tan Hound. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year

by countryIs the Austrian Black and Tan Hound legal where you live?

No breed-specific rule names the Austrian Black and Tan Hound in the 44 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.

Checked 2026-11-05. Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.

how busy a day looksAustrian Black and Tan Hound exercise needs

A working scenthound that loves to be busy; it does best with plenty of exercise, scent work or tracking.1 2

the hands-on bitsAustrian Black and Tan Hound grooming and care

The short, smooth coat is easy to keep with occasional brushing.2

where they are happiestAustrian Black and Tan Hound at home

Better suited to country life with room to roam than to a city flat.1

where it all beganAustrian Black and Tan Hound history

The breed is thought to come from the old Celtic hound type, and it was bred without formal records until the mid-1800s. A black and tan hound named Bergmann was the first dog entered in the stud book of the Austrian dog breeding club founded in 1884.2 1

for the dinner tableFun facts

1
Its nickname Vieräugl means 'four eyes', after the tan spots above the eyes.1
2
The first dog registered by Austria's dog breeding club in 1884 was one of these hounds, named Bergmann.1
3
It has also been trained to sniff out the emerald ash borer, a tree pest.1

the story behind itWhere the name comes from

The name 'Brandlbracke' comes from 'Brand' (referring to the fawn markings, like a fire mark) and 'Bracke' (a type of scenthound). 'Vieräugl' means 'four eyes' in Austro-Bavarian, referring to the two fawn spots above the eyes.1

stars of the breedFamous ones

Bergmann First dog registered by the Österreichischen Hundezuchtvereins (Austrian dog breeding club) in 1884.1

for your new friendName ideas

LudwigGretlAlpenBrackeFritzZirbelEdelweißSchnuffelBergToniWaldHansi

told by an Austrian Black and Tan HoundA day in the life

I wake to the scent of dew on the grass, and my nose twitches with joy. After a quick breakfast, my human and I head to the forest. I follow a winding trail, my voice ringing out as I track a rabbit's path. Later, we rest by a stream, and I lean against my human's leg, tail wagging. Back home, I curl up on the rug, dreaming of tomorrow's scents. A simple, happy day.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

the official bitsRecognised by

FCI: Standard no. 63, Group 6 Scenthounds, Section 1.2 Medium-sized hounds; standard published 10.10.1995. Wikipedia dates FCI recognition to 1954.2
UKC: Recognised in 2006.1

homemade and simpleTreats they will love

Simple Carrot Crunchies The Kennel Club
Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup Dogs Trust
Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice) Blue Cross

All treat recipes for dogs

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

the things everyone asksOwner questions

How often should I feed my Austrian Black and Tan Hound, and at what times?

Feed your adult Austrian Black and Tan Hound at least two meals a day, ideally at consistent times like morning and evening. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. Follow the food label for amounts and consult your vet for a tailored plan.3

What should an Austrian Black and Tan Hound eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food suited to your hound's age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and many others listed by the ASPCA. Always check with your vet for the best diet plan.4

How often should I bathe an Austrian Black and Tan Hound?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, and general guidance says at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your hound gets very dirty or has skin issues. Use a mild dog shampoo.5 Pet Wiki plan

How often does an Austrian Black and Tan Hound need brushing?

Brush your Austrian Black and Tan Hound weekly with a soft brush to keep its short, smooth coat shiny. Pet Wiki's plan suggests brushing every 7 days. This also helps remove loose hair and keeps the coat healthy.2 5 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim an Austrian Black and Tan Hound's nails, and how often?

Trim your hound's nails about every 28 days, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail trimmer and cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.5 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does an Austrian Black and Tan Hound need?

Your Austrian Black and Tan Hound needs plenty of daily exercise, including long walks and opportunities for scent work or tracking. Pet Wiki's plan recommends daily walks and play. This breed thrives when kept busy, so aim for at least an hour of activity each day.1 2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after an Austrian Black and Tan Hound's teeth and ears?

Brush your hound's teeth at least every other day, ideally daily, using a dog toothpaste. Check its floppy ears weekly for moisture or dirt, and gently dry them if needed. Never insert anything into the ear canal. Regular care prevents infections.5 Pet Wiki plan

How long does an Austrian Black and Tan Hound live?

The Austrian Black and Tan Hound typically lives between 12 and 14 years. With good care, regular vet checkups, and a healthy lifestyle, many enjoy a long, happy life.1

Is an Austrian Black and Tan Hound good with children and other pets?

This breed is known to be pleasant and affectionate, but individual temperament varies. Always supervise interactions with young children and other pets, and socialize your hound from an early age. Consult a good breeder for specific advice.2 1

Can an Austrian Black and Tan Hound be left alone?

This hound prefers company and activity, so it may not do well left alone for long hours. It is best suited to a home where someone is around most of the day. If you must leave it, provide plenty of toys and consider a dog walker.1

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.