The Austrian Pinscher is a breed of dog that was developed in Austria, where it is known as the Osterreichischer Pinscher. The breed was once known as the Austrian Shorthaired Pinscher, but in 2000 the “shorthaired” was dropped from its name.

Austrian Pinschers are distantly related to their cousin, the German Pinscher, although they are distinctly broader and heavier. They are a medium sized dog with a short, thick double coat that can be russet gold, brownish yellow, stag-red, or black with tan markings. Small amounts of white markings on any of these colors are common and can be on the chest, muzzle, neck, throat, nape, feet, or tail tip. They stand between 14-20 inches and normally weigh between 26-40 pounds. Traditionally Austrian Pinscher’s tails are docked, but when left natural it curls over the back.


Paintings exist from the 18th century that show dogs almost identical to today’s Austrian Pinscher. They are likely descended from these dogs and were developed as an all-purpose farm dog, used for driving and guarding of livestock, and also as rat catchers. Select breeding did not begin until 1921, when these dogs were still plentiful in Austria, and they were first recognized by the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1928. Having never gained popularity outside of farm life, today the Austrian Pinscher is becoming an increasingly rare breed, even in its homeland.

Austrian Pinschers are a working breed and make excellent guard dogs. They are fearless as well as extremely vocal to suspicious sounds. These dogs tend to be a loud breed that takes its guard duty very seriously and may develop a tendency to bite if not properly trained at an early age. While suspicious of strangers the Austrian Pinscher is friendly, playful, and devoted to all people in its family and that they are familiar with.

The Austrian Pinscher’s history as a farm dog does not make this breed very suitable for urban life. They do best when they have lots of room to roam as well as a job to do, but should at the very least have a large yard. They need daily walks and plenty of exercise.

Austrian Pinscher’s are generally a hardy breed. They have a life expectancy of around 12-14 years.

The short coat of an Austrian Pinscher requires very little grooming.