Bloodhounds: A guide to dogs and puppies of the Bloodhound breed

The Bloodhound!

The Bloodhound is a massive, powerful breed that is known for its refined head, droopy ears, and wrinkly skin. The jowls on its face give it a sad, mournful look. Its neck and back is strongly muscled and its forelegs are solid. The Bloodhound has a short coat that can either be black, black and tan, or liver-colored. This dog is is generally quiet and passive indoors but active and vocal outdoors.

Some Quick Facts:

Life Expectancy:
8-10 years

Energy Level:
Below average indoors. Higher outdoors.

Living Conditions:
Flexible. Fine for apartments.

Barking:
Vocal outdoors, quiet indoors.

Exercise Needs:
At least 2 hours per day.

Breed Group:
Hound

Size:
Large

Height:
23 – 27 inches

Weight:
80 – 110 pounds

Standard Hair Colors:
Black and tan, tan

National breed club:
American Bloodhound Club

Bloodhound Skills

The Bloodhound has the distinction of being one of the older hounds that can trace its history back to Belgium in the 8th century. They were first used to track and hunt deer and wolves. With the Norman invasion of England in 1066, the Bloodhounds were then introduced into English society and was first seen in the show ring in 1871. Today, Bloodhounds are still very much in use when it comes to tracking and hunting not only fellow animals, but also lost children and even criminals. US law enforcement agencies and offices still make good use of the Bloodhounds.

Bloodhound Personality

The Bloodhound is known to be a gentle, even-tempered breed and adapts well to families with children and with other household pets. They are extremely friendly, even with small children and with strangers, and because of this they will not do well as watch dogs or guard dogs. Although they generally lounge in the house and are quiet, they will become vocal and energetic outdoors.

Exercise Needs

Bloodhounds come with high energy and stamina and will therefore need at least two hours of proper exercise everyday. Make sure that their exercise area is well-fenced, for they are very good at tracking smell and will bound away in pursuit of it if not restrained.

Living Conditions

The Bloodhound can live in an apartment or in the city so long as it has regular exercise and the place has a yard for it to play in.

Grooming Requirements

The Bloodhound is not a show dog and therefore needs minimal grooming; its coat is short and does not require much care except for the occasional brushing in order to remove dead hair. The Bloodhound does not need to be trimmed, although regular checks of its eyes and ears are needed.

Health Issues

While the breed as a whole is considered relatively free from inherited health problems, owners and breeders need to watch out for potential joint problems, which can develop if the Bloodhound becomes too heavy or is given too much exercise at a young age. Look out also for hip and elbow dysplasia. The eyes and the ears must be given attention as they gather a lot of dust and debris, resulting in infections.

If you liked this dog…

...try looking at the English Greyhound, which is an intelligent, swift, elegant hound dog that is also sweet and gentle. Their instinct for prey is second to none and they make for great pets even after their racing days have gone to past.