The Tyrolean Hound is a breed of dog that originated in the Austrian Alps. They were originally bred to hunt small game such as hares and rabbits.
These dogs are known for their distinctive white coat with black markings. Their short, dense coat requires minimal grooming.
Tyrolean Hounds are medium-sized dogs with a muscular build. They typically weigh between 40-60 pounds and stand between 20-23 inches tall at the shoulder.
Their intelligence and energetic nature make them a great breed for active owners who enjoy outdoor activities.
Physical Characteristics
The Tyrolean Hound's physical characteristics are truly impressive.
Their thick double coat is a defining feature, with a coarse undercoat that provides excellent protection from the elements. This coat comes in two main colors: red and black with tan markings, both of which may have white markings.
Their broad, flat ears are set high on the head and can reach up to the end of the nose when pulled forward, giving them a unique and alert appearance.
Their compact, rectangular body is well-suited for tracking and hunting, with a fast gait and deep chest that provides ample lung capacity.
General Appearance
The Tyrolean Hound is a medium-sized dog with a strong, muscular build. They have a dense, double coat that gives them a flowing outline.
Their head is fairly broad with a slight arch going down the middle. This arch continues into the deep and straight muzzle of the dog.
The eyes are dark brown, large, and round, and are not so deeply set. The third eyelid should be pigmented and the eye rims should be close fitting.
Their ears are broad and flat, set high on the head with rounded ends. They can even reach up to the end of the nose when pulled forward.
Their body is compact and rectangular in shape, with a thick double coat including a coarse undercoat. They have a fast gait and can be used for either tracking or hunting.
Their forelegs are straight with a medium bone, while the hind legs are well feathered, broad, and muscular. The tail is set high on the back with a saber curve, and is carried high when the dog is excited.
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Characteristics
The Tyrolean Hound is a sturdy breed with a strong build and muscular physique.
They are slightly longer than tall, which makes them well-suited for navigating rugged terrain.
Their coat is made up of dense stick hair, the same type of coat found on wolves, and is smooth and dense.
The Tyrolean Hound has very little undercoat, which makes their top coat of medium length all the more impressive.
Their ears are medium-sized and lie high on their head, giving them a distinctive appearance.
The breed is known for being fast, agile, and a good climber, making them a formidable hunting companion.
They are practically all-weather capable, meaning they can handle a wide range of weather conditions with ease.
Their ability to concentrate is particularly good, allowing them to focus on a scent even in distracting environments.
Behavior and Temperament
The Tyrolean Hound is a highly active dog, which means it needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
They're affectionate and free-spirited, but also very intelligent, which can sometimes make them a bit stubborn.
This independent streak can lead to misbehavior if not addressed, but with consistent training, they can learn to behave well.
Hunters love the Tyrolean Hound's ability to hunt alone, following wounded game for long distances, and their quick, ground-covering gait makes them a passionate and efficient hunter.
Their alert and lively nature means they're always on the go, but they can also be great stay-at-home pets who can "switch off" and relax when needed.
While they're not naturally aggressive, they have a loud bark that serves as a great warning system, making them excellent watchdogs.
Health and Care
The Tyrolean Hound is a relatively low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. Its coat only needs to be brushed occasionally.
In terms of health, Tyrolean Hounds are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to some issues. Hip dysplasia and ear infections are two potential problems to watch out for.
To ensure your Tyrolean Hound stays happy and healthy, it's essential to provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They need to be kept busy, whether that's through hunting, mantrailing, or foraging games.
A well-fenced garden is a must for a Tyrolean Hound, as they require plenty of space to move around. If you don't have a garden, you can also try hiding treats around the house or yard for them to find.
With proper care, a Tyrolean Hound can live for 12-14 years. To minimize the risk of inherited health problems, it's crucial to buy from a responsible breeder who performs regular health tests on their breeding dogs.
Exercise
Exercise is a must for Tyrolean Hounds. They have a lot of energy and need daily activities to keep them happy and healthy.
Tyrolean Hounds love to be outside, so be prepared to spend a lot of time with your dog in the great outdoors. They'll enjoy activities like hiking and chasing balls.
These dogs are best suited for owners who have a lot of free time to devote to them. If their needs are met, you can be sure you'll end up with the best possible dog in the house.
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Ownership and Community
The Tyrolean Hound is a versatile breed that thrives in a family environment. They are excellent with children and make loyal companions.
They require a moderate amount of exercise, which can be achieved through daily walks and playtime. This makes them a great choice for active families who enjoy outdoor activities.
Their intelligence and trainability also make them suitable for first-time dog owners, who can learn to train and care for them with ease.
Origin and History
The Tyrolean Hound is a breed with a rich history, dating back to the ancient Celtic hounds. This breed was originally developed in Tyrol, specifically for hunting in the snow.
Emperor Maximilian I was a big fan of the breed, using it for hunting hare and fox, as well as tracking wounded game. He even wrote about his favorite hunting dogs in his hunting books.
Pure breeding of the Tyrolean Hound began in Tyrol around 1860, and in 1896, a standard was established for the breed. This standard has remained relatively unchanged over the years.
The Tyrolean Hound was officially recognized as its own breed in 1908, and it wasn't until 2006 that it was recognized by the United Kennel Club.
Socialization
Socialization is key to a happy and well-adjusted dog. Proper socialization should start as soon as you bring your Tyrolean Hound puppy home. Exposing them to many different situations, people, dogs, and sounds will help them learn to react accordingly. They can adapt to any environment if you secure them with plenty of physical and mental activity. This process is crucial for your dog to trust you and understand that they don't need to be scared of strangers and other dogs.
Kids
When you're thinking of introducing a new dog to your household with kids, it's essential to consider the age and maturity level of your children.
The Tyrolean Hound is best suited for a household with older kids who know how to properly interact with the dog.
Before letting your kids play with the dog, it's crucial to teach them the correct way to approach, interact, and play with the dog.
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Suitable Accessories
If you're planning to take your Tyrolean Hound on a hunt, it's essential to get the right gear. A sturdy chest harness is a must-have, as it provides support and allows the dog to breathe better.
Anti-tick ointments can be applied between the fur to prevent tick infestations. This is especially important since Tyrolean Hounds are used as sweat and brackish dogs in forests.
A high visibility vest with reflectors is a great idea for forest hunts. It makes it easier for the hunter to recognize the dog and reduces the risk of mistaking it for a hare.
A whistle is a convenient tool for calling the hunting dog. This can be especially helpful in dense forest areas.
A first aid kit is always a good idea, especially when hunting in remote areas. This way, you can provide immediate care if the dog gets injured during the hunt.
A food bag is a practical accessory that can be used as a reward after the hunt or for playing with the dog.
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Breeders
Finding the right breeder is crucial when searching for a Tyrolean Hound. Tyrolean Hound is not a very popular dog across the world, so you must be patient if you want to get this dog.
Be prepared to wait a bit longer for your puppy, as Tyrolean Hounds are pretty rare dogs. If you're willing to put in the time and effort, you'll be rewarded with a wonderful companion.
Only search and contact official and responsible dog breeders, as they take good care of their dogs and provide them with everything they need. This will give your future puppy the best possible start in life.
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