American English Coonhounds: A guide to dogs and puppies of the American English Coonhound breed

The American English Coonhound!

The American English Coonhound is a breed of dog that can be compared to a well-conditioned athlete. Its head is broad with a very slightly domed skull. Its ears hang rather low, reaching nearly at the end of the nose when drawn out and an expression that can be best described as kind and houndy. The coat is a medium length, hard, protective hair with a deep chest, strong back and broad loin without any exaggerated parts. It moves effortlessly with its head carried up and alert, a true picture of great endurance, strength and vigor. Originally named as the English Fox and Coonhound, the American English Coonhound traces its origin to England as a descendant of the English Foxhound. Through careful breeding practices, the Americans adapted this breed to American game, terrain and climate.

Some Quick Facts:

Life Expectancy:
11-12 years

Energy Level:
Average.

Living Conditions:
Needs open living spaces.

Barking:
Average.

Exercise Needs:
Swimming; walks; open field running.

Breed Group:
Hound

Size:
Medium

Height:
21-27 inches

Weight:
45-65 pounds

Standard Hair Colors:
Red and white ticked; blue and white ticked; tri-colored with ticking; red and whit; white and black

National breed club:
AKC American English Coonhound Page

American English Coonhound Skills

American English Coonhounds are used to track and hunt raccoons, opossums, cougars, deers, boars, bobcats and various species of bear. It excels in both performance and conformation in field trial events. It has also found its way into the hearts of families as a preferred pet. Notable natural gifts are its tremendous speed and excellent voice which is a good hound bawl. This breed will do just as fine if used by a pack hunter rather than a single-hound hunter.

American English Coonhound Personality

An American English Coonhound is watchful, assured and affectionate to humans as well as other dogs. Shyness or timidity is not to be expected of this breed. Hunting is in its nature and shows it by being able to handle the physical pain associated with varied terrains. It is also quite versatile and can be a highly competitive coonhound.

Exercise Needs

Natural hunters require regular exercise and an American English Coonhound is definitely one. Exercise may be in the form of regular walks, playtime in an open field and swimming.

Living Conditions

Tremendous adaptability to just about any environment is what separates the Coonhound from other breeds, and this holds true for the American English Coonhound. They are quite comfortable on the beds of their masters as they are in the field.

Grooming Requirements

Baths are given when necessary and not too frequently. Coats of American English Coonhounds are short thus it does not soak up water which facilitates drying in a small amount of time. Regular brushing of its coat can be done to keep it clean.

Health Issues

This breed is quite healthy but may be prone to hip dysplasia like most other breeds.

If you liked this dog…

...it might be worth knowing its ancestor – the English Foxhound. This is a large powerful hound used primarily to hunt foxes. This breed is quite admirable as they get along together wonderfully even if kenneled in packs, notwithstanding their innate strength and courage.