Bluetick Coonhound Dog Breed Profile

Description: The Bluetick Coonhound is a medium-sized dog that shows a greater size difference between the sexes than most dogs display. The dog will be 22 to 27 inches at the withers, with the bitch 2 inches less. However, while the weight of the dog can reach 80 pounds, the bitch will only attain 65 pounds. The coat is short and is an interesting color consisting of a background of mottled grey and bluish ticking with larger spots of black or dark blue on the head and body. There are sometimes tan spots above the eyes. This dog is often used for night hunting as its eyesight is very good. The Bluetick Coonhound can be expected to live for 10 to 12 years. It is also known just as Bluetick.

History: America was the birthplace of the Bluetick Coonhound. This dog was first developed in Louisiana. Judging from the dog's coat color, it has descended, in part from the French Grand Bleu de Gascogne. Breeders in Louisiana bred several other breeds into the foundation stock to get the Blue tick Coon hound. These breeds included the American Foxhound and the English Foxhound.

Temperament: The Bluetick Coonhound is a gentle, good natured dog that does well in family life. This dog will guard the home, and will act in a reserved manner to those it does not know. Older children will probably do better with the Bluetick Coonhound than small ones. This breed will not enjoy being left alone for long periods and can suffer from separation anxiety. The Blue tick Coon hound will get along with other dogs, but will view other domestic pets, including cats, as prey animals.

Health Issues: While the Bluetick Coonhound is a generally healthy dog, there are several issues with which the owner should be aware. This dog is subject to hip dysplasia to one degree or another. Bloat can also occur in this dog, and this requires immediate veterinary attention. The Blue tick Coon hound can also suffer from cataracts and Krabbes Disease.

Grooming: With its short coat, the Bluetick Coonhound is easy to groom. A weekly brushing will do. However, since this dog has floppy ears, attention must be paid to them to keep them infection free. The ears should be checked every day and cleaned if necessary. As this is a hunting dog, it should also be examined for parasites such as ticks or fleas if it has been in the field.

Living Conditions: As the Bluetick Coonhound is a quiet dog inside, it is possible to keep this dog in an apartment. However, since this dog's exercise demands are very high, the apartment dweller must make a determined effort to provide long, brisk walks with this dog to satisfy its demands. A house with a yard is probably best. This dog will experience separation anxiety if left alone for long periods, as it is a dog that bonds strongly with its family and wants to receive attention from them. This is a dog that loves the outdoors and will do best with an active family that either hunts or participates in outdoor sports.