Black and Tan Coonhound: Personality, Exercise, Health

Group: Hound Dogs

AKC Ranking: 139

About Black and Tan Coonhound

History of the Breed The Black and Tan Coonhound got its start in France from the Bloodhound and made its way to England in the 11th century. It is descended from England by way of mixed breeding with the American Foxhound and became an official breed in 1945 when admitted to the American Kennel Club. The Black and Tan Coonhound is a noted tracker with an extremely sound sense of scent that he uses to the best of his ability to tree raccoon or other prey. They are used in field trials today where they excel.

A General Appearance of the Dog

The Black and Tan Coonhound is mostly glossy black all over with touches of rich tan above the eyes and on the sides of the muzzle. There can also be tan on the chest and legs to some degree.

The head is very pronounced at the skull and soft in the mouth and jowl area. Long velvety ears give the face a soulful appearance.

This is a strong, lean tracking breed that stands tall and sound and moves quickly and efficiently.

Coat

As the name suggests, Black and Tan Coonhound can come in only these two colors Black and Tan Coonhound has short smooth hair all over.

Height

Males 25-27”
Females 23-25”

Weight

Males 60-70 lbs.
Females 50-60 lbs.

Personality

Temperament of the Dog

The Black and Tan Coonhound is a noble, loyal breed that is very loving to their families and usually other pets, with the exception of small vermin like creatures i.e. rabbits, hamsters, etc. They love to be part of a group so single owners looking for a companion may not be the best match. They are quite tolerant of children and lots of activity and usually consider such as part of their “pre-tracking ritual.”

A quick-to-follow, intelligent, loyal and good-natured hunter and companion, the Black and Tan Coonhound pleases hunter and owner alike. The Black and Tan is an alert and eager dog who is very dedicated to his work. Some sources say this passionate worker is a bit aggressive, but will listen to his master. Other sources say he is gentle and friendly with people.

Some individuals are protective and are a bit reserved with strangers, but welcoming after an initial period. Some Black and Tan tend to be aggressive with other strange dogs.

Sometimes they can play rough. This dog can be willful, requiring firm, patient and on-going training. They may howl if they are left alone too much. Do not let this breed off the leash in an unsafe area, as they may take off after an interesting scent.

This is a very vocal breed and will express itself often with barking or baying as a way to communicate a wish to you. This is a pack characteristic and one that has been nurtured to serve his owner in the field. While it may be possible to train some of this trait out of the dog, it will never fully be obedient to silence and as an owner one should love and respect this aspect of the breed.

While Black and Tan Coonhound has many positive characteristics and is a superior pet in many ways, it is not recommended that first time dog owners begin with this breed. Their need for space and expression of abilities needs to be understood and appreciated by their owner. An owner with knowledge of this breed is preferred or one with previous pet experience at the least will be best suited for Black and Tan Coonhound.

Better suited to an indoor or outdoor lifestyle?

A properly bred Black and Tan Coonhound is a pack dog for the elements and would rather be with canines or family outside whenever possible. They can consider their family a pack but a lifestyle indoors on a sofa is not for him. A fenced yard is ideal for Black and Tan Coonhound; this breed will totally ignore the warning and shock of invisible fencing whenever there is a scent to follow. Black and Tan Coonhound is definitely not an urban or apartment breed.

Are they suited to homes with kids?

Black and Tan Coonhound is a great breed for all ages of children. They may be a bit rough in their play for the smallest of children as they are a rambunctious dog at play. Otherwise they are most loving and tolerant of children.

Activity Level

How Active is the Breed?

Indoors Black and Tan Coonhound is relatively calm and sedate. Outdoors his sense of smell is on and he is continuously active and following his nose. In a safe enclosed yard this can mean following the fence line looking for rabbits, squirrel or other creatures that have come into his territory. If he has the luxury to run free in an open space i.e. farm or the like, he may track well away from home and not return until ready.

Black and Tan Coonhound, because of its instincts and heritage does not make a good pet for those who want a pet to walk with. The breed’s tendency to lunge and sway while tracking make them more than a handful to handle for the average pet owner.

How Much Exercise Does the Dog Need at every stage of its Life?

As a puppy the Black and Tan Coonhound will be happy with the usual toys and activities that most puppies enjoy. After the first year, this breed will become more interested in fully using its nose to track giving him more than enough exercise if allowed. If weight does not become an issue, than Black and Tan Coonhound will remain an active tracker even in his last years.

Grooming

Regular bathing and brushing can be accomplished by most owners at home if the weight of the pet is not an inconvenience. A chamois cloth will keep coat glossy.

Nails should be checked frequently and trimmed. Since their nose is close to the ground often the ears take some abuse from brush and should be checked frequently for cuts or abrasions. Ticks will hide in the ears and should be removed immediately if found.

Health and Care

Genetic Problems

Hip Dysplasia can occur in Black and Tan Coonhound but proper testing of parents of future litters can help to reduce the occurrence. They are a relatively healthy breed but keeping weight in proper proportion will help joints as they age.

Breeding the Dog and any Cautions

Always be in contact with reputable breeders before choosing to breed your dog.

Litter Size: Litters usually run between 7-8 puppies

Life Span: 10-12 years

National Breed Clubs: US – American Black and Tan Club - www.abtcc.com

Other Recognition: FCI, AKC, UKC, CKC, NKC, CKC, APRI, ACR

Rescue Link: www.coonhoundrescue.com