Black and Tan Coonhound

Alternative names: No commonly known alternative names.

History of the breed

The Black and Tan Coonhound is an American hunting dog with roots dating back to colonial times. This breed was developed by crossing English Foxhounds and Bloodhounds to create a dog that could effectively hunt raccoons and other game in difficult terrain. With its excellent sense of smell and tireless endurance, the Black and Tan Coonhound became a favorite among hunters. Today, the breed is not only a versatile hunting dog but also a loyal companion.

Character and temperament

The Black and Tan Coonhound is a friendly, intelligent, and confident dog. It is sociable and affectionate with its family, but retains an independent side due to its hunting heritage. This breed is gentle and patient, making it suitable for families with children. It has a cheerful personality and a keen sense of smell, giving it drive in the field.

Physical characteristics

Height at the withers : 58-69 cm (male), 53-64 cm (female).
Weight : 25-34 kg (male), 20-29 kg (female).
Coat : Short, dense and shiny.
Colors : Always black with rust-brown markings on the face, legs and chest.
Sizes for collars and harnesses : Neck circumference 45-60 cm, chest circumference 75-90 cm.

Care

The Black and Tan Coonhound has a low-maintenance coat that requires weekly brushing to remove loose hair and keep the skin healthy. Check its long, drooping ears regularly to prevent dirt and infection. Keep its nails trimmed and ensure good dental care, especially as it can be prone to tartar buildup.

Movement and activity

This breed needs plenty of exercise and thrives on an active lifestyle. Long walks, runs, and tracking activities are essential for keeping them physically and mentally healthy. They have a strong prey drive and enjoy using their nose, for example, during tracking or searching games. A fenced yard is recommended, as they can be easily distracted by interesting scents.

Health

The Black and Tan Coonhound is a relatively healthy breed, but may be prone to:

Hip dysplasia
Ear infections (due to drooping ears)
Bloating or stomach torsion (bloat)
Eye problems, such as ectropion (outward-turning eyelids)

The average life expectancy is 10-12 years.

Power supply

A balanced diet with high-quality proteins and healthy fats is essential. On average, they eat 400-600 grams of food per day, depending on their weight and activity level. Divide the food into two meals a day to prevent digestive problems.

Training and socialization

The Black and Tan Coonhound is an intelligent dog, but can sometimes be stubborn due to its independent nature. Positive reinforcement and patient, consistent training work best. Early socialization is important to accustom it to different situations, people, and other animals. This breed can be easily distracted due to its keen sense of smell, making training challenging but rewarding.

Suitability for owners

The Black and Tan Coonhound is an excellent choice for active owners who enjoy long walks and outdoor activities. It's perfect for those who understand how to handle a dog with a keen sense of smell and a hunting instinct. This breed is a good fit for families with children or other dogs, as it's sociable and gentle. However, it needs an owner willing to invest time in exercise and mental stimulation, as it can become bored easily. A fenced yard is ideal to safely give it the space it needs. The Black and Tan Coonhound is less suited to apartments or an inactive lifestyle, as it needs plenty of exercise and stimulation to be happy. It loves company and may struggle with being left alone for long periods of time.

Share your experience with us!

Do you own a Black and Tan Coonhound? Send a photo of your dog to customerservice@fidello.nl and receive a 10% discount on your next purchase. Want to contribute to a video for FidelloTV? Schedule an appointment using the same email address and receive €20 in store credit as a thank you for participating!