Black and Tan Coonhound Dog Breed Profile

by Dr. Chris

AKC Group: Hound Group

The Black and Tan Coonhound is a tremendous hunter relying almost entirely on its nose for tracking. A brave dog that is often used to hunt game bigger then it like bears and cougars.

History

The Black and Tan Coonhound is believed to have originate as far back as 11th century England where it was bred with the Talbot Hound. It is from the strains of Bloodhound and black and tan Foxhound brought to America by English colonists. It was brought here to hunt raccoons, bears and opossums and its origins back to the 1700's. In the late 1700's it was considered to be the first Coonhound to be a distinctly different breed than the American Foxhound. They were breed to hunt like the Bloodhounds but also to travel faster and hunt at night. They were bred for endurance, strength and stamina. They would traverse the rugged mountainous terrain of the Blue Ridge, Appalachian, Smoky and Ozark mountains with great zeal.

Physical Features

The Black & Tan Coonhound is a large working dog. It differs from other dogs in that it hunts with scent only. It stands about 25-27 inches tall and weighs about 50-75 pounds. Its main preoccupation is to chase coons up a tree, but it is also used to hunt down larger prey using its powerful scenting ability. The color of the Black & Tan Coonhound is only black and Tan. Its coat is full, short and dense and can withstand temperature extremes, hot or cold. The head is oval in shape measuring about 9 inches from the back of the skull to the tip of the nose. The ears extend slightly past the tip of the nose, hanging in graceful folds which lend to a majestic look. The hazel or brown eyes are expressive, alert, friendly and eager; the eyes are not fully round nor do they protrude.

Personality

The Black and Tan Coonhound is an easy going and friendly and affectionate. It is friendly with other pets, especially smaller ones. Intelligent; quick to learn but may be stubborn. It is tolerant of strangers though not overly friendly. Excellent watch dog; it has the ability to sense danger before it arrives and has a distinctive bark.

Common Health Problems

Take to vet for frequent visits; hip and elbow dysplasia; Entropion (eye disorder); cataracts (treatable); allergies. It needs a special nutritious diet.

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