Description

Coonhounds are an eclectic mix of Colonial Foxhounds and a great many other hounds from England, Ireland, and France. Most hounds hunt prey on the ground, but Coonhounds have been trained to tree their prey. They prey they have been trained on are Possums, Raccoons, Bobcats, Bear and Cougar. Coonhounds can hunt alone or in a pack. Hunters don’t follow the Coonhound they wait until they hear a certain baying noise the dog makes when it has “treed” something. The Coonhound stands between 23 and 27 in. tall at the withers and weighs between 50 and 75 lbs. at maturity. They have a very short tight coat that is smooth. Which comes in Black and Tan.

Temperament

This is a scent hound, and a fine hunting dog…he however is not a typical family pet. The Coonhound is not going to be content to sit at home on the sofa while you work all day. He is an active dog that needs a job to do. You must be this dogs pack leader 110%, and socialize him early on to develop a good working relationship with this breed. They can get along with children, but not toddlers, or children that have no sense when it comes to dogs.

Grooming/Exercise

On occasion brush the Coonhound to remove any dead hair, and rub them with a chamois cloth to make their coat gleam. Bathe only when needed. Make sure however that you clean their ears on a regular basis to keep them free from infection. He needs an active family or owner that will take him on walks, and provide him with a secure and safe place to play. This dog will not fit into a townhouse or apartment lifestyle.

Health

Life Expectancy is on average 10 to 12 years.

Possible Issues

• Hip Dysplasia
• Over feeding (food intake should be watched)