Pet Wiki

Styrian Coarse-haired Hound

Also called Steirische Rauhhaarbracke, Peintinger Bracke, Coarse-haired Styrian Hound, Styrian Rough-haired Mountain Hound

Recognised breedFCI group 6Short profile

From Styria, Austria12

At a glance the quick version

Height, male47 to 53 cm12
Height, female45 to 51 cm12
Sizemedium
tireless, determined tracker
hardy in rough mountain terrain
copes well with heat and cold
12

Coat and looks how to spot one

harsh, coarse, rough coat without gloss

A well-muscled, serious-looking mountain hound. Its rough, matte coat is coarse to the touch but not shaggy, with shorter hair on the head that forms a small moustache.12

Coloursredfawnsmall white chest marking permitted12

Personality what they are like

A keen, tough hunting hound that works with steady determination and uses its voice freely on the trail. It has a serious manner without being sharp.1

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Very high. A working mountain hound that needs a great deal of space and exercise, ideally with a hunting job.12

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The harsh, weather-resistant coat is fairly easy to keep; regular brushing keeps it in good order.12

Home where they are happiest

Best with active hunting owners in rural areas with room to roam; it was bred for rough, high terrain.2

Company who they like around

A working hunting companion that thrives with a handler who gives it a clear task.12

The story where it all began

Styrian industrialist Carl Peintinger began the breed around 1870 by crossing a Hanoverian scent hound bitch with a rough-coated Istrian Hound. Careful selection afterwards fixed both its hunting ability and its weatherproof rough coat, producing a hound for the Alpine uplands.12

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    It is sometimes called the Peintinger Bracke after the man who created it.2

  2. 2

    Hunters in Austria and Slovenia use it to trail wounded game through steep, high-altitude ground.2

  3. 3

    Its rough coat helps it cope with extremes of temperature.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name 'Styrian Coarse-haired Hound' refers to its origin in the Austrian province of Styria and its harsh, rough coat; it is also called the Peintinger Bracke after its creator, Karl Peintinger, who developed the breed in the 1870s.2

Name ideas for your new friend

AlpineBellaBrunoFelsGipfelHeidiJägerLudwigRosaStefanWaldZirbe

A day in the life told by a Styrian Coarse-haired Hound

I wake to the scent of pine and damp earth. My human’s boots echo on the wooden floor. We head into the forest, where I pick up a fresh trail. My deep voice rolls through the valley as I follow the scent with steady determination. At midday, we rest by a stream. I lap the cold water, then flop down, my rough coat catching a few burrs. My human scratches my ear and says, 'Good work.' Back home, I curl by the fire, dreaming of tomorrow’s run.

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

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard No. 62 (Steirische Rauhhaarbracke), Group 6, Section 1.2 (Medium-sized scent hounds), with working trial; standard dated 10 Oct 19951
UKC
Recognised by the United Kennel Club (per Wikipedia)2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Styrian Coarse-haired Hound. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Blueberry and Oat Bites

These three-ingredient treats are quick to make and packed with antioxidants from blueberries and fibre from oats. They are low in fat and perfect as a training reward.

You need

  • 100g oats
  • 1 banana (mashed)
  • 40g fresh blueberries (chopped)
  • Splash of water (as needed)

How

  1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
  2. In a bowl, mix the mashed banana, oats, and chopped blueberries together.
  3. Add splashes of water gradually until the mixture comes together into a large ball.
  4. Roll out the mixture on a lightly floured surface to about 1-2cm thick.
  5. Use a knife or cookie cutter to cut into shapes.
  6. Place the shapes on a lined baking tray.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until slightly browned.
  8. Leave to cool completely before serving.

How much: Offer one or two bites per day for a medium-sized dog. Reduce your dog's usual food portion to account for these treats.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

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

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Styrian Coarse-haired Hound, and at what times?

Feed your Styrian Coarse-haired Hound at least two meals a day, with consistent times. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. Check the food label for amounts and ask your vet for a schedule tailored to your dog.3

What should a Styrian Coarse-haired Hound eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for active breeds. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol. Always keep human treats away from your hound.4

How often should I bathe a Styrian Coarse-haired Hound?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks. General guidance recommends bathing at least once every three months, more often if your dog is very outdoorsy. Use a gentle dog shampoo.5 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Styrian Coarse-haired Hound need brushing?

Brush your Styrian Coarse-haired Hound weekly to keep its harsh coat in good order. Furry Diary's plan recommends brushing every 7 days. This helps remove dirt and loose hair.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Styrian Coarse-haired Hound's nails, and how often?

Trim your hound's nails every 4 weeks or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. 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 a Styrian Coarse-haired Hound need?

This breed has very high exercise needs and thrives with daily vigorous activity. Furry Diary's plan includes daily walks and play. Ideally, give it a job like hunting or hiking in rough terrain.12 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Styrian Coarse-haired Hound's teeth and ears?

Brush your hound's teeth a few times a week with dog toothpaste, never human toothpaste. Check ears weekly and keep them dry, especially since floppy ears trap moisture. Never push anything into the ear canal.5 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Styrian Coarse-haired Hound live?

Lifespan varies for this breed. Ask your vet for typical longevity and health considerations for your individual dog.

Is a Styrian Coarse-haired Hound good with children and other pets?

The Styrian Coarse-haired Hound has a serious manner but is not sharp. Its suitability with children and other pets depends on early socialization and training. Consult a good breeder or your vet for guidance.

Can a Styrian Coarse-haired Hound be left alone?

This hound is a working companion that thrives with a clear task and active handler. It may not be happy left alone for long periods. Ask your vet or a breed expert for advice on alone time.

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.

You might also like

Istrian Coarse-haired HoundTyrolean HoundAustrian Black and Tan Hound

Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. FCI breed standard No. 62: Steirische Rauhhaarbracke fci.beused for origin, recognition, height, coat, colours, temperament, history
  2. Wikipedia: Styrian Coarse-haired Hound en.wikipedia.orgused for other names, weight, UKC recognition, uses, fun facts
  3. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  4. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.