Black and Tan Coonhounds: A guide to dogs and puppies of the Black and Tan Coonhound breed

The Black and Tan Coonhound!

The Black and Tan coonhound is a solidly American dog, a powerful and large dog that is accustomed to work and activity. With clean, classic distinctive lines and a well-proportioned body, the Black and Tan coonhound gives off the impression of a dog of great speed and agility. It is easily recognizable due to its black and tan colors and its coat is short, rough, and dense. The eyes are rounded and range from dark brown to hazel. The head is well-shaped and the neck and back are both strong and muscular. The shoulders are powerfully built and the forelegs are straight.

Some Quick Facts:

Life Expectancy:
9 – 13 years

Energy Level:
Higher than average

Living Conditions:
Not for apartments. Need outdoor activity to release energy.

Barking:
Average

Exercise Needs:
Multiple daily walks and/or jogs.

Breed Group:
Hound

Size:
Large

Height:
23 – 27 inches

Weight:
60 – 75 pounds

Standard Hair Colors:
Black with patches of tan at the feet and tail

National breed club:
American Black and Tan Coonhound Club

Black and Tan Coonhound Skills

Originally bred as a dog for hunting and treeing raccoons, the Black and Tan coonhound rely entirely by scent. It was developed by breeding together the Foxhound and the Bloodhound, and was bred mostly by those living in the Ozark and Smoky Mountains. Their bloodline includes English foxhounds as well. Today, their original skills are still being put to good use and not only hunts raccoons, but larger animals such as deer, stags, and even bears. Its other skills include tracking.

Black and Tan Coonhound Personality

Lively and determined, the Black and Tan coonhound is best suited toward environments with high energy and activity. It is more compatible with older children and agrees well with both hunters and dog owners. It is also highly alert and quick to follow directions. As a watchdog, the Black and Tan coonhound rates highly. They have a tendency to wander when they sniff an interesting scent, so don't let them off their leashes unless you're in a safe area.

Exercise Needs

Black and Tan coonhounds have high amounts of energy and thus need a lot of exercise and activity. Daily exercise including walks and runs are highly recommended. The Black and Tan coonhound, bred as a working dog, cannot lie still for a long time.

Living Conditions

The Black and Tan coonhound are not as active indoors as they are outdoors, so a small apartment is not recommended. They need a large area outside for them to play in, as they are highly energetic.

Grooming Requirements

The Black and Tan coonhound is not a breed that needs a lot of attention toward grooming. A casual brushing from time to time will be enough for the dog. Pay attention to the ears in order to sidestep infections.

Health Issues

Watch out for progressive retinal atrophy and hip dysplasia; the Black and Tan coonhound is prone to the latter. Owners and breeders should not overfeed the dog as well.

If you liked this dog…

...looking at other dual-purpose dogs that are comfortable with both hunting and companionship, such as the Scottish deerhound; it prefers human companionship more than the black and tan coonhound..