Tyrolean Hound
- Origin
- Austria
- Type
- Scenthound
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 42–61 cm (16.5–24 in)
- Weight
- 16–27 kg (35–60 lb)
- Coat
- Thick double coat with a coarse undercoat
- Colors
- Red, or black and tan, with or without white markings
- Life span
- 12–14 years
- Status
- Recognised by the FCI and UKC
The Tyrolean Hound, or Tiroler Bracke, is a scenthound from Tyrol. It was bred for hunting in snow, forest and mountain country, and is valued for its nose, its stamina and its ability to work on its own.
History
The breed was developed in Tyrol in the 1800s from Bracke hounds and Celtic hounds. Emperor Maximilian I is said to have used hounds of this kind to hunt hare and fox and to track wounded game. Planned breeding began in 1860, and the first standard was published in 1896. The Tyrolean Hound was recognized as a breed in 1908. The United Kennel Club recognized it in 2006.
Appearance
The Tyrolean is a medium to large hound with a muscular build and a flowing outline. Males stand about 47–61 cm (18.5–24 in) and weigh about 16–27 kg (35–60 lb). Females are smaller, at about 42–48 cm (16.5–19 in).
The body is compact and rectangular, with a deep, moderately broad chest and pronounced withers. The head is fairly broad and slightly arched, with a deep, straight muzzle and a black or brown nose, black being preferred. The eyes are large, round and dark brown. The ears are broad and flat, set high, with rounded tips, and reach the end of the nose when drawn forward. The tail is set high and carried in a saber curve, ideally with a thick brush of hair.
The coat is a thick double coat with a coarse undercoat, and the hind legs are well feathered. There are two main colors, red and black with tan, and either may have white markings.
Temperament
The Tyrolean Hound is hardworking, independent and persistent on a scent. It can hunt alone, following wounded game over long distances with a quick, lasting gait, in heat or cold and over rough ground.
It is also described as highly active, easy to train and affectionate, and is often kept as a family dog by people with a large yard or ready access to open country.
Care and health
The breed is generally healthy and robust, living about 12 to 14 years. Hip dysplasia and ear infections are among its more common problems. A German study of three hound breeds found the Tyrolean Hound to have the highest level of inbreeding, with an inbreeding coefficient of 9.5% and an effective population size of 26.5.
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