Longevity
Life expectancy
The life expectancy of the Austrian Black and Tan Hound depends on the bloodline, weight, activity and veterinary follow-up. A lean, well-socialized animal that is regularly monitored has a better chance of aging comfortably.
Constitution
Is this a robust breed?
Its build is solid and its overall health is reputed to be robust. Regular monitoring remains necessary, particularly after hunting outings or activities in the undergrowth.
Things to watch for
What to look out for
Particular attention must be paid to incidents related to hunting and to the condition of the drooping ears, the inside of which must be checked in order to limit the risk of infection.
Otitis and ear infections: Drooping ears must be inspected regularly to prevent moisture, irritation, and infections.
Heatstroke: Sustained effort during hunting or in high temperatures can lead to overheating that requires rigorous prevention.
Field injuries: Hunting activities can cause cuts, trauma, grass awns, or damage to the paw pads.
Climate
Tolerance to cold and heat
Its intense activity requires preventing heatstroke in hot weather, with suitable outings, shade, breaks and water. After activity in cold or damp weather, the dog must be able to dry off and recover in a sheltered place.
Weight
Prone to weight gain
The breed shows a strong tendency to gain weight. Portions must therefore be adjusted to the actual activity level, weight and body condition, with increased vigilance outside the hunting season.
Everyday care
Good habits to keep your pet healthy
- Inspect the ears after each outing in a natural environment.
- Examine the paw pads, skin and coat upon returning from the hunt.
- Adapt the effort to the temperatures and plan for water.
- Regularly monitor weight and body condition.
Vaccination
Austrian Black and Tan Hound vaccinations: schedule
Which vaccines does a Austrian Black and Tan Hound need? Like all dogs, Austrian Black and Tan Hounds should receive their core vaccines from 8 weeks of age: CHPPi (core vaccine) and Leptospirosis. Puppies receive their initial Austrian Black and Tan Hound vaccinations in several shots spaced 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year. Depending on their lifestyle (hunting, hiking, boarding, travel, region), your veterinarian may add vaccines against Rabies, Kennel cough, Piroplasmosis, Lyme disease and Leishmaniasis.
| Vaccine | Primary vaccination | First booster | Then | For whom? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
CHPPi (core vaccine)Core Distemper, Rubarth hepatitis, parvovirosis and parainfluenza | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All animals |
LeptospirosisCore Leptospirosis (bacterium transmitted by rodent urine and stagnant water) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | All animals |
RabiesDepending on lifestyle Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, categorized dogs, most boarding kennels and shows |
Kennel coughDepending on lifestyle Bordetella bronchiseptica and parainfluenza | 8 weeks | 1 year | every year | Dogs attending boarding kennels, daycares, dog clubs and shows |
PiroplasmosisDepending on lifestyle Tick-borne babesiosis | 5 months · 6 months | 1 year | every year | Hunting dogs, dogs living in rural or wooded areas, dogs highly exposed to ticks |
Lyme diseaseDepending on lifestyle Tick-borne borreliosis | 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | Hiking dogs, hunting dogs, forest areas of the East and the Center |
LeishmaniasisDepending on lifestyle Leishmaniasis transmitted by sandflies | 6 months | 1 year and 6 months | every year | Dogs living or staying in the South of France, Corsica and the Mediterranean basin |
Adult Austrian Black and Tan Hound booster shots are given annually for leptospirosis and rabies. For distemper, hepatitis, and parvovirus, a booster every three years is often enough after the first booster. Your veterinarian will tailor the schedule to your dog's actual risk.
Which boosters does your Austrian Black and Tan Hound need?
Enter your companion's age to see which vaccines are due now and when the next boosters are needed.
Choosing well
Adopting a healthy Austrian Black and Tan Hound
Regular veterinary follow-up, ear examination and a check after outings make it possible to quickly spot irritations, grass awns, wounds, parasites or signs of overheating.
This information is for guidance only and doesn't replace advice from a veterinarian. If you have any concerns about your pet's health, consult a professional.
