Description

The Austrian Shorthaired Pinscher has a pear shaped head. The powerful muzzle is relatively short. The feet have well-arched toes. The elbows are fairly close to the body. The chest is wide and well developed. It has a short, hard topcoat as well as undercoat. Coat colors come in red, black, brown, fawn, brindle, or black/tan, with limited white markings common. The tail is docked or left curled over the back.

Origin

The Austrian Shorthaired Pinscher is heavier than its cousin the German Pinscher. This traditional Austrialn farmer's dog was developed as a general "farm biter", used to drive livestock and to guard the home. Paintings from the late 1700's show a dog almost identical to today's breed.

Temperament

The Austrian Shorthaired Pinscher was developed as a farm dog. Working farms, used to guard livestock and guard the home. It is a tad high strung, but is generally relaxed with people it knows. This terrier is most content in the country where it can put his instinctive abilities to work. They love sports and will gladly join you in any you wish to involve it in. A fearless and attentive watch dog, barking at suspicious sounds. His bark does not make him ideal for urban life. This breed may not get along well with other dogs. It takes its guarding duty seriously and may have a tendency to bite.

Height

Height: 14-20 inches (36-51 cm.)

Weight

Weight: 26-40 (12-18 kg.)

Known Health Problems

The Austrian Pinscher can suffer from HD, and they do have a heart condition that it hereditary.

Conditions for Living

The best condition to have a Austrian Pinscher would be a farm, however a large yard will due.

Exercise Requirments

The Austrian Pinscher will get enough exercise if he is living on a farm, however, if you don't have a big garden the dog needs to go on a ever you want to do with him (Fly Ball, agility).

Life Expectancy

About 12-14 years

Grooming

An occasional brushing will do.

Group

Pinschers