Dog breed · Austria
The Styrian Coarse-haired Hound (German: Steirische Rauhhaarbracke) is a breed of medium-sized hound dog originated in the Austrian province of Styria. It is bred as a scenthound, for hunting boar in mountainous terrain. The breed is one of the large Austrian Bracke.
Appearance: The Styrian Coarse-haired Hound is a medium-sized hound, with height at the withers of 45–53 cm (17.5–21 in), and weight between 15–[dose — ask your vet] (33-40 lbs) with a well muscled body and a serious expression.
The breed name refers to the coat, which is harsh and rough (although not shaggy). Coat colours are red and fawn; a white mark on the chest may be present. The breed tolerates extremes of temperature well, and has remained a healthy breed through "refresher breeding" (Auffrischungszucht, outcrossing).
History: The breed was created in the 1870s by Karl Peintinger, an industrialist from Styria. Peintinger crossed his "Hela 1", from an old type of Hanoverian scent hound, with an Istrian Hound, and continued selective breeding until a rough-coated, hardy hunting dog was achieved. The breed is used by Austrians and Slovenians to hunt wild boar. It can also be used to track wounded animals through rough terrain and in high altitudes.
As with many breeds bred for work, they are not generally kept as a companion dog and do not make good pets; they require a lot of space and exercise, and can be dominant and destructive.
