The austrian pinscher was recognized in 1928, but did not recieve much attention in the rest of Europe until the 1980s and 90s. It resembles a coarse version of the german pinscher, like it once known as the good all-around farmdog. It is a very alert and attentive dog, still able to work as a good watchdog.
In year 2000, the breed name was changed, removing the previous 'shorthaired', seeing how the wirehaired variety does not appear anymore.

The austrian pinscher should be medium size with a compact body. The head should, seen from above, be pear-shaped, with a broad, rounded skull and well marked stop. The muzzle should be of medium width. The ears are carried close to the cheeks. The neck is of medium length, and with a short and straight back. The tail is set high and often carried loosely over the back, but a short tail sometimes appears. The coat is short and thick, longer only on the tail and back sides of the hind legs.