Let's get to know the Austrian Pinscher: starting from its origins, we trace its history and discover what sets it apart from its German "cousin". We take a closer look at the breed standard and the distinctive features that make this wonderful dog breed so special.
Origins and History of the Breed
The origins of the Austrian Pinscher are shrouded in mystery — no documents tell us where it came from, so we can only rely on the views of the most knowledgeable experts. They believe it is closely related to its German cousin, a theory supported by the physical and temperamental similarities between the two. The earliest images of the Austrian Pinscher date back to the eighteenth century, a period in which certain notable paintings feature a dog virtually identical to our friend from Austria.
In 1921, Dr. Emil Hauck launched a dedicated breeding programme for this small yet remarkably versatile breed — so versatile, in fact, that it became an indispensable companion for people. The results were so encouraging that by 1928 the breed was officially recognised, and the following year the FCI played its part by drawing up the first breed standard, giving it the name Osterreichischer Kurzhaarpinscher, meaning short-haired Austrian Pinscher.
Around the 1960s and 1970s, the Austrian dog suffered a near-total population collapse, coming dangerously close to extinction. A full recovery would not come until 2000, the year in which the FCI drew up the definitive standard and changed the name to Austrian Pinscher.
Breed Standard
The Austrian Pinscher is a small-to-medium-sized dog, weighing around 18 kg and standing approximately 40 cm at the withers — figures that refer, of course, to a healthy adult male. The build is toned and compact, without appearing heavy or bulky. A broad, deep chest frames a short, muscular body that is well-structured and free from excesses. The legs are proportionate in length to the rest of the body — neither particularly straight nor excessively wide — and are covered by well-developed muscles, especially in the hindquarters.
The tail is set high and is usually carried curled over the back; it is broad at the base and tapers slightly towards the tip, and is often docked. The neck is short and powerful, well set and with good mobility. The head is typically pear-shaped, with a broad skull; the muzzle begins with a very pronounced stop, is short but not blunt, and ends in a large, dark nose that ranges from black to brown depending on the coat colour. The eyes are large, slightly rounded and dark in colour, with an intelligent and deep expression.
The ears are set high, V-shaped and carried either erect or semi-dropped. The coat consists of a medium-density undercoat and a short, straight topcoat; to the touch it feels hard and very close-lying, similar to that of a Fox Terrier. The permitted colours are fawn, yellow, black and tan, black and brown, and red; large white markings are generally present.
Care and Nutrition of the Austrian Pinscher
The health of the Austrian Pinscher is generally good, and its excellent constitution means that routine veterinary check-ups are sufficient. The Austrian dog's diet should be balanced and varied, without the addition of artificial supplements.
Austrian Pinscher Temperament
The Austrian Pinscher is a dog for everyone — easy to manage and very quick to learn rules and follow commands. Despite its small size, it is an excellent watchdog that looks after its home and the people who live in it; its affection and devotion towards the entire family it lives with are truly touching. Given its compact size, it makes a wonderful companion dog, displaying a cheerful and sociable nature. It is always happy to play with children, go for walks with its owner, and keep company even when simply curled up on a comfortable armchair.
Its relationships with strangers are marked by an instinctive wariness towards anyone outside its circle of affection. Even so, the Austrian Pinscher never displays unprovoked aggression; even when it feels compelled to protect its loved ones, it always seeks an alternative to confrontation, aided by its ability to make decisions that are often highly effective.
It is perfectly happy living indoors, but is equally capable of spending time outside. Given its wonderful temperament and manageable size, we can wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who is ready to love it and treat it the way it deserves.
Breeders and Price
The Pinscher puppy is lively and curious, always ready to explore every corner; it reaches peak happiness when it can share its games with the children in its family. There are several breeders in Italy who work with Pinschers, and as a result they often handle our Austrian friend as well.
To get an idea of the price of an Austrian Pinscher puppy, it is best to contact one of these breeders directly. At the time of purchase, it is important to request all documentation relating to the puppy — both medical and otherwise. If possible, we recommend spending a few hours with the puppy to make sure it shows no obvious issues.
